Beninese performers stage a traditional Chinese lion dance at a grand Chinese New Year parade in Porto-Novo, Benin's political capital, Jan 22, 2017. [Photo/Chinaculture.org]

The 2017 Happy Chinese New Year celebrations kicked off in Benin's political capital Porto-Novo on Sunday, featuring a grand parade and performances.

Martial arts masters at the Chinese culture center in Benin joined hands with over 10 local folk art troupes during a two-hour parade that covered major streets of the city, bringing the festive mood of happiness and harmony to people in the West African country.

The celebratory activities were lifted to a higher peak by an art troupe from Northwest China's Gansu province later that day, with over 30 artists staging traditional Chinese performances, including dance, solo and instrumental music shows.

Sunday's event was part of the Chinese Ministry of Culture's Happy Chinese New Year worldwide celebrations to welcome the Year of the Rooster, which is expected to be followed by temple fairs, New Year galas, cultural and trade exhibitions, firework shows, as well as seminars.