More than 800 people are expected to attend a Lunar New Year event to welcome in the year of the dragon.

The Oxfordshire Chinese Community & Advice Centre (OCCAC) is set to host the annual celebration on February 18, promising an extensive programme of cultural experiences.

The age-old festival represents the beginning of the traditional Chinese calendar and is the most significant observance within the Chinese community.

The Chinese zodiac calendric system assigns to each year a specific animal denoting distinctive character traits.

The cycle's fifth animal, the dragon, is symbolic of power, nobility, honour, fortune and success.

People born within a dragon year, including 2024, are said to demonstrate inherent audacity, tenacity, and intellect, often marked by a spirit of enthusiasm and confidence.

The community is set to enjoy an array of performances that include dragon and lion dances, acrobatics, martial arts, and a recitation on the piano and Hulusi, a traditional Chinese instrument.

The event promises to indulge the audience with songs, dance, choir singing and even a chance to win prizes in the annual charity raffle draw.

Before the main events commence, an acrobatics workshop featuring a solo dragon dance will keep the younger attendees engaged.

This year's Lunar New Year market offers a glimpse into traditional crafts like Chinese calligraphy, papercutting and wind spinner making.

Attendees can also participate in the fun and capture memories in Chinese traditional costumes against a backdrop.

Chair of OCCAC, Stephen Chu said: "Lunar New Year is about friends and family members coming together.

"We’ve been running the Chinese New Year Celebration since 1992, except during the pandemic, at Oxford Town Hall.

"The event offers a valuable opportunity for other local residents to learn about Chinese culture and meet the Chinese community, adding multicultural flavour to Oxford City.

"We’re pleased to see the keen support of the locals over the years and welcome everyone to join us again in the beautiful Town Hall."

Discounted tickets are currently on sale at various points across Oxford.

Residents are also invited to the Lunar New Year Market at Chesterton Community Centre on February 3 and the One World Family Festival on February 10, hosted by the Ashmolean Museum.

For further details regarding the event and ticketing, visit the OCCAC’s website.

The OCCAC provides independent quality advice and services that enable members of the Chinese community to gain equal access to public resources, improve their quality of life, and integrate into society.

It also offers health and mental health talks, and supports mental health clients and their carers.