February 10, 2024 began 龙年 lóngnián, year of the dragon. (The previous year was rabbit; the next, snake.)
龙年 is the fifth year in the 12-year cycle. It corresponds to 辰 chén, the fifth of the 12 地支 dìzhī earthly branches (子丑寅卯辰巳午未申酉戌亥).
Chinese dragons are mythical creatures with many awesome and admirable powers (unlike European dragons, which are evil monsters). They control the weather, and like to play with pearls.
Other years of the dragon include: 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928, 1916, 1904.
See the whole 12-year cycle!