Large crowds watched dancers and drummers in London on Sunday to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year. The holiday - known as the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea - is a major festival celebrated in several Asian countries.

Chinese New Year, AKA the Spring Festival, is a commemoration of the new lunar calendar, and is celebrated in many South Asian countries including Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia and the Philippines, as well as in many diaspora communities around the globe.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan says in a letter: "Happy Chinese and Lunar New Year to all those celebrating in London and around the world. The Year of the Snake encourages us to reflect on our lives and look at ourselves and the world with a new perspective.

Lunar New Year celebrations begin Wednesday. Here's everything to know about the 2025 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake.

Thousands of people have gathered for celebrations for Chinese New Year, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. The festivities in Newcastle city centre featured a parade, traditional performances and cultural displays in a showcase of Chinese heritage.