In Italy, it is currently Chinese Culture Year. The Chinese Embassy in Rome, says spectacular Chinese New Year celebrations, will be held across the country, really pushing the Chinese Culture Year, right to its climax.

Ding Wei, Chinese Ambassador to Italy, said, "The Chinese lunar new year is a traditional festival for Chinese people. By celebrating it, we want to help Italians learn more about Chinese culture, history, and people's lives, and to promote understanding and friendship between the two peoples."

On February 2nd, the eve of Chinese lunar new year, an ancient castle in Naples will be lit up in dazzling red. The city will host firework shows, to celebrate the year of the Rabbit. Cities including Rome, Milan, Venice and Turin will hold parades, with dragon and lion dances. Italian officials say exhibitions and shows celebrating Chinese Culture Year, have so far proved popular, with the Italian public.