Countdown to Chinese New Year 2018 - Year of the Dog

Glasgow is gearing up for colourful multicultural celebrations to signal the start of Chinese New Year.

Chinese New Year begins today (Friday 16 February) and ushers in the lunar Year of the Dog. A public performance will be held on Sunday 18 February in George Square between noon and 12.30pm to mark the occasion.

The exciting programme will feature a traditional Dragon eye-dotting ceremony, Dragon and Lion Dances and music from Police Scotland's, Glasgow Police Pipe Band and African drummers.

The programme has been organised by the Chinese Cultural and Welfare Society Scotland (CCWSS) in partnership with Glasgow City Council.

Andy Chung, Chairman of the CCWSS and Mr Xinchun Pan, Consul General, Consulate of China, Edinburgh will be among those attending.

A civic reception for invited guests will follow in the City Chambers hosted by Lord Provost Eva Bolander and will include Oriental and Scottish music and dancing, as well as associated cultural activities for invited children.

The Lord Provost said: "I'm really looking forward to the Chinese New Year celebrations in George Square. There are always wonderful performances - full of vibrancy and colour.

"Glasgow is proud of its ethnic diversity and it's fantastic to have an opportunity to demonstrate, so visibly, this city's support for our Chinese community and send them - and their countrymen and women - our congratulations and best wishes for Chinese New Year."

Andy Chung said: "We're delighted to celebrate this important event in our home city of Glasgow and pleased to have the support of the Lord Provost. It's a joyful and colourful occasion and everyone is welcome to come and watch the performances in George Square. My thanks to all our supporters and sponsors for their contribution."