华盛顿的中国新年庆祝活动

An event called "A Night of Chinese Food" took place in the US to mark the beginning of the Spring Festival celebrations on Thursday. Guests in Washington D.C. were treated to a feast of food and also Chinese culture.

The Xiao Nian, or Little New Year, was held in the American capital to mark the beginning of festivities for the Lunar New Year. Over a hundred guests from the world of business and politics attended.

"Many people in China, especially the northern part of China, start the celebration of New Year from today," said Lu Kang, a minister from the Chinese Embassay in US.

Other than food, folk artists specializing in various traditional Chinese handicrafts including papercutting, clay moulding and new year prints demonstrated their skills. These colourful pieces have long been seen as representative of Chinese culture. A scene from a traditional Chinese opera was also performed, but with puppets.

Those attending seemed happy with the event. "I love the Chinese food, I love the Chinese art, and it's a lovely occasion," a guest said.

The evening was a warm-up for the main events celebrating Chinese new year. Activities will include a dance performance at the Kennedy Arts Center along with a family day at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.