Lunar New Year Chinese Zodiac Animals Matching Game Printable

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Celebrate the Lunar New Year with this fun and educational printable activity! Kids can learn about the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac while practicing matching skills, fine motor coordination, and cultural awareness. This game includes colorful animal cards, matching Chinese character cards, and a spinning zodiac wheel for extra excitement.

Learn About the Zodiac Animals

The Chinese Zodiac, or Shēngxiào, is a repeating 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal and its traits. The animals include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

In this game, kids will learn to recognize both the animal names and their Chinese symbols, making it a perfect way to connect culture and play!

What’s Included in the Printable Set

• 12 animal cards featuring each Zodiac animal

• 12 matching cards with the corresponding Chinese characters

• A spinning Zodiac wheel to add an element of chance

• Reference chart with English names, animal images, and Chinese symbols for easy matching

How to Make It

1. Print the pages on cardstock for durability.

2. Cut out the cards and spinner pieces.

3. Use a paper clip and push pin to make the spinner. For safety, attach it to a piece of cardboard or cork board.

4. Laminate the cards if you’d like to reuse them each year!

How to Play

1. Lay all the animal and symbol cards face down in a grid.

2. Spin the wheel to choose which animal you’re searching for.

3. Try to find the matching Chinese character card for that animal.

4. If you spin the animal of the current year, you earn a bonus turn!

For younger children, try playing with the cards face up for an easier, more visual version of the game.

This fun hands-on activity helps kids:

• Practice visual recognition and memory

• Learn about East Asian culture and symbolism

• Recognize Chinese characters in a playful way

Extend the Learning

Pair this activity with a few cultural lessons or crafts:

• Read The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac by Dawn Casey

• Make paper lanterns or dragon masks

• Explore Lunar New Year foods or traditions from around the world

Ready to download?

Want some more Chinese New Year Ideas?  See a few ideas from some of my favorite bloggers.  Check out this awesome Chinese New Year Interactive Notebook from Only Passionate Curiosity! I also love this Chinese New Year Slime from Little Bins for Little Hands!