Performers from Sizhou Dramatic Theatre from Anhui Province perform as part of a series of performances ahead of the Spring Festival, in Valletta, Malta, Jan 23, 2016. [Photo/chineseembassy.org]

Performances were staged on Jan 23 in the Maltese capital city of Valletta to inaugurate celebrations for the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls on February 8 this year.

Two Chinese performing groups, the Sizhou Dramatic Theatre from Anhui Province and the Jinan Song and Dance Theatre from Shandong Province, put on performances at Malta's Royal Opera House.

The performances were followed by a parade along Valletta's Merchant Street and Republic Street.

These activities are part of the celebrations which will last until January 30 and aimed at celebrating the arrival of the year of monkey according to Chinese zodiac.

Saturday's events were jointly organized by the China Cultural Centre in Malta and the Valletta Local Council. The events are the 10th edition of its kind and have drawn more than 1,000 audience.