CHESTER gave the Chinese New Year of the Dog a colourful and explosive start.
The festivities included a Tai Chi demonstration from Ji Siu Tai Chi Chuan, traditional Lion and Dragon dancing plus firecrackers.
The God of Prosperity, The Emperor of Heaven and The Happy Buddha oversaw the celebrations that started at Storyhouse on Saturday morning before moving to Eastgate Street.
The Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese zodiac calendar and follows a 12-year cycle.
Chinese legend states that The Emperor of Heaven asked all the animals to meet him on New Year's Day and named a year after each of the twelve animals that came.
People born in the Year of the Dog are said to be independent, sincere, loyal and decisive according to the Chinese zodiac. They are not afraid of difficulties in daily life making them have harmonious relationship with people.
Cheshire West and Chester Council supported the Wah Lei Chinese Association to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Councillor Jane Mercer, Sheriff of Chester said: “Gong Xi Fat Cai, I would like to wish everyone a very happy year of the dog.”
Mia Tan, from the Wah Lei Chinese Association said: " Thanks to our many community volunteers that have worked hard to organise and perform in this year’s cultural celebrations.
The Wah Lei Chinese Association is also supported by Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Race Equality Centre, the University of Chester, Chester Voluntary Action, the Slowboat Chinese Restaurant and Wah Lei volunteers.
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