TODAY is Chinese New Year.

This year marks the year of the Rooster, the tenth animal of the Chinese zodiac and people will be decorating their homes in the traditional lucky colours of yellow, red and green.

Celebrations began earlier this month, but today marks the official day and millions of people all over the world will celebrate the year of the rooster.

Thousands are expected to celebrate the New Year in Hampshire and there will be a display at Westquay shopping centre today.

Mayor of Southampton Cllr. Cathie McEwing will be opening the event organised by The Chinese Association of Southampton at 11am.

Traditionally in China, the new year festivities over the next 16 days.

The displays have been made possible after a £10,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund and attendees can expect martial arts displays as well as a traditional Chinese dragon.

People born in the year of the Rooster this year are thought to be trustworthy, with a strong sense of timekeeping and responsibility at work.

However, according to Chinese astrology, the year of the Rooster is the most unlucky year in the 12-year cycle.

Chairman of the Chinese association, Michael Ng said: " Please come to join our celebrations of Chinese New Year.

"This is a great way for people to come to learn about our culture and for us to share our great traditions like the dragon and lion dance, Kung Fu and various over traditions."

The New Year, is the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.

Following the event at Westquay shopping centre there will be two more events:

  • February 04 017 11am-4pm, at The Spark, Southampton Solent
  • University February 11 2017 11am-4pm, at Southampton Guildhall