Spring Festival is not just a big occasion for Chinese people, but also an event to showcase animals across the country. In Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, beastly performances are ushering in the Year of the Rabbit.

A special show at the Polar Ocean World Aquarium spotlights a variety of marine species. After three months of intensive training, a South American sea lion is performing multiple stunts, like playing with a rope and ball. He also interacts with visitors by shaking hands and giving kisses. A Japanese dolphin is another star at the site, as he performs water ballet under the guidance of a trainer.

At the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base, a creature born in Japan delivers new year's calls to its family there, as well as to people touring the facility. Foreign-bred cubs are a major focal point of this year's carnival.