Birmingham’s Southside district welcomed 20,000 visitors to its annual Chinese New Year celebrations.

Featuring lion dances, acrobats, martial arts, singing and dancing, the festivities concluded with a spectacular firework display.

There was also an array of traditional craft stalls positioned in Hurst Street. The event gave visitors the chance to immerse themselves in Chinese culture.

Organised by the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee (BCFC), the festival marked the symbolic transition to the Year of the Horse.

Julia Chance, Southside BID manager, said: “Chinatown is an integral part of Southside and each year the Chinese New Year festivities continue to improve and attract thousands of new and returning visitors to the area.

‘‘It’s fantastic that the event helps us both celebrate an important part of this district’s culture whilst also providing a boost for our local businesses in what is otherwise a quiet time of year.”