Around 1,600 local residents gathered in Worcester, England on February 2 to celebrate the Chinese New Year, which is also known as the Spring Festival.

Spectators on Severn Street enjoyed martial arts and lion dance performances outside the Museum of Royal Worcester at noon, while families took part in calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and pottery painting inside, where Chinese culture activities made a festive and engaging day.

Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Beatrice Grant and Mayor of Worcester Mel Allcott attended the event and each made a speech to pass on their best wishes.

H-J Colston-Inge, co-director of the educational charity Engage with China, which was one of the organizers, said: "We know how important it is to stage Chinese culture outside of London; the focus is far too heavily there, but you can see from Worcester how good things can be, even in small cities."

The annual event has been a tradition of the city in central England for the last 26 years.

The first day of this Chinese New Year was on Jan 29 and this year is the Year of the Snake.