Red Chinese lanterns are strung between buildings across Leicester as the city prepares for a colourful festival of processions and music to mark the Lunar New Year. Fireworks, music, fairs, lanterns,

Now in its 15th year, the festival started with the neighborhood’s Vietnamese population but has spread to include much of the wider San Diego community. The Lunar New Year, sometimes called the Chinese New Year, will be celebrated by billions of people this Wednesday.

How long are Lunar New Year festivities? What is the Chinese Zodiac? Here's what to know as the Year of the Snake celebrations begin in Stockton.