Crowds of people celebrated the arrival of the year of the dragon in Wokingham on Sunday.
The celebration to mark the Lunar New Year saw music and dance displays, Asian food and the traditional lion dance.
Cllr Sally Gurney, Wokingham town mayor, said: “In many East Asian cultures, the dragon traditionally symbolises power, wealth, and strength.
“But in the Great Race, which is the story of the animals of the Chinese zodiac, the strong and powerful dragon comes fifth because it stops to help a rabbit stranded on a log in the river, and pushes it to the safety of the shore.
“It also helps nearby villagers put out a fire by summoning rain.
“It’s easy to remember that dragons are powerful creatures, and also easily forgotten that these powers should be used for good.
“This year, the year of the dragon, may we gain power that we may help others.
“May we have abundant resources that we may give to ourselves, and to those around us.
“I wish for courage, endurance, kindness, and generosity for each of us, our families, our friends, and our communities.
“I hope we will be rain givers, life preservers, and joy bringers. May we all be dragons.”
She added that it was wonderful to see so many people in town celebrating the lunar new year.
“I was honoured to lead the procession with the wonderful lion, who traditionally brings good fortune and drives away evil spirits.
“The dancers really brought him alive.
“With other fantastic entertainment, activitie, and delicious treats, it was an honour and a delight to celebrate with our Asian community, and to hear so many people saying how welcome they feel and happy they are to be living in Wokingham.”
