Number 5 in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, dragon years follow the rabbit and precede the snake. Unlike the malicious monster often portrayed for the Western dragon, the Eastern dragon is a creature of myth and legend, symbolising divine power and great fortune. The dragon years are 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024. People born in these years are to be honoured and respected.

According to Chinese horoscopes, dragon personalities include these characteristics: innovative, enterprising, flexible, self-assured, brave, passionate, conceited, tactless, scrutinizing, unanticipated and quick-tempered. John Lennon, Joan of Arc, Susan B. Anthony, Bruce Lee, Colin Farrell, and Sandra Bullock are born in dragon years.