Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "no spring year" in the upcoming Year of the Horse in 2026, which has led to various superstitions regarding marriage and fertility, despite being a natural result of the differences between lunar and solar calendars [1][4]. Group 1: Definition and Explanation - "No spring year" refers to a year without the solar term "Lichun" (立春), which is significant in Chinese culture, and is also known as "寡年" (guā nián) or "寡妇年" (widow year) [3][6]. - The occurrence of "no spring year" is a result of the lunar calendar's reliance on moon phases and solar cycles, leading to years where there may be no "Lichun" [4][5]. Group 2: Frequency and Historical Context - "No spring year" occurs approximately every 2 to 3 years in the lunar calendar, with examples including the years 2019, 2021, and 2024 [4]. - The concept of "no spring year" has been historically linked to fertility and marriage, with traditional beliefs suggesting it is inauspicious for weddings [6]. Group 3: Debunking Myths - Experts assert that the belief in "no spring year" being unlucky for marriage is unfounded and lacks scientific basis, emphasizing that it is merely a coincidence of calendar systems [5][6]. - The article encourages people to avoid spreading rumors and to embrace the upcoming Year of the Horse without superstition [6].

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming Year of the Horse will experience a "no spring year" phenomenon, which has led to widespread superstitions regarding marriage and auspiciousness, but these claims lack scientific basis [1][4]. Group 1: Explanation of "No Spring Year" - The "no spring year" occurs when there is no "Lichun" (the beginning of spring) in the lunar calendar, a phenomenon that averages 7 occurrences every 19 years and is unrelated to fortune or misfortune [1][2]. - The phenomenon is a result of the differences between the lunar and solar calendars, where the lunar calendar is based on moon phases and solar cycles, leading to variations in the corresponding dates of solar terms [1][2]. - In the 21st century, there have been 37 instances of both "no spring years" and "two spring years," indicating that "no spring years" are not rare, occurring approximately every 2 to 3 years [2]. Group 2: Cultural Beliefs and Misconceptions - The term "widow year" originates from "no spring year," reflecting ancient beliefs that link the absence of spring to fertility and marriage, leading to the superstition that marrying in a "no spring year" is inauspicious [4][5]. - Historical references indicate that the belief in "no spring year" being unlucky for marriage has been debunked by experts, who emphasize that such notions are based on folklore rather than scientific evidence [5]. - Various scholars have criticized the superstition surrounding "no spring year," labeling it as a form of superstition that should be challenged and corrected [5].