The table below shows the major calendar systems, their current year, approximate user base, and type:
Major Calendar Systems at a Glance
| Calendar | Current Year (2026) | Users | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gregorian | 2026 | ~8 billion | Solar |
| Islamic (Hijri) | 1447–1448 AH | ~1.8 billion | Lunar |
| Hebrew | 5786–5787 | ~15 million | Lunisolar |
| Chinese | Year 4723–4724 | ~1.4 billion | Lunisolar |
| Japanese | Reiwa 8 | ~125 million | Solar |
| Persian | 1404–1405 | ~110 million | Solar |
| Ethiopian | 2018 | ~130 million | Solar |
The Gregorian Calendar
Solar calendar, 365 days (366 in leap years), introduced in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII. Most widely used civil calendar. Based on the Roman calendar reformed by Julius Caesar.
The Islamic (Hijri) Calendar
Pure lunar calendar of 354–355 days — about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year. Islamic holidays (Ramadan, Eid) fall ~11 days earlier each Gregorian year. Year 1 AH = 622 CE, when the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina. In 2026, it is year 1447–1448 AH.
The Hebrew Calendar
Lunisolar calendar used for Jewish religious observances. Months follow the moon, but a leap month is added 7 times every 19 years to stay aligned with the solar year. Year is counted from the traditional date of Creation — in 2026, it is 5786–5787 AM (Anno Mundi).
The Chinese Calendar
Lunisolar calendar, best known for the 12-year zodiac cycle (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig). Chinese New Year falls between January 21 and February 20. Year numbered from the legendary Yellow Emperor — 2026 is approximately year 4723–4724.
The Japanese Calendar
Japan uses the Gregorian calendar for most purposes, but official documents use the imperial era system. Current era is Reiwa (令和), began May 1, 2019 when Emperor Naruhito ascended. 2026 = Reiwa 8.
The Persian (Solar Hijri) Calendar
Used officially in Iran and Afghanistan. Solar calendar beginning on the spring equinox (Nowruz, ~March 20–21). 2026 corresponds to 1404–1405 in the Persian calendar.
FAQ
What year is it in the Islamic calendar in 2026?
In 2026, the Islamic (Hijri) year transitions from 1447 to 1448 AH (Anno Hegirae).
What year is it in the Hebrew calendar in 2026?
In 2026, the Hebrew year is 5786–5787 AM (Anno Mundi).
Why does the Chinese New Year change every year?
Because the Chinese calendar is lunisolar, the New Year begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which falls on a different Gregorian date each year (between January 21 and February 20).
Is the Julian calendar still used?
The Julian calendar is still used by some Eastern Orthodox churches for calculating religious holidays. It is currently 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar.