This Sunday will see the celebrations to welcome in the Year of the Rabbit take place in Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue (central London's big event traditionally takes place on the first Sunday after the official start of the Chinese New Year, which this year is on February 3). Festivities begin at 12noon with an official opening ceremony in Trafalgar Square, followed by a variety of performances featuring music, dance, Chinese dragons, lions, acrobatics and firecrackers. Chinatown will be filled with cultural and food stalls and displays. Because of redevelopment work in the area, the traditional closing fireworks display in Leicester Square will not take place this year but an alternative is being arranged. See the website for updates.

Posted: Thursday October 11 2012