In pictures: Chinese New Year in Paris

1 of 8 Paris has celebrated Chinese New Year with a spectacular parade down the Champs-Elysees, beginning at the Arc de Triomphe.

2 of 8 The parade, honouring 40 years of diplomatic ties between France and China - comes two days before a diplomatic visit from Chinese President Hu Jintao.

3 of 8 Up to 7,500 people - among them dancers decked out in spectacular traditional Chinese costumes - took part in the parade...

4 of 8 ... and more than 50 floats - such as this inflatable Arc de Triomphe and Chinese pagoda - were also on show.

5 of 8 Meanwhile, a 100m (330ft) red and gold dragon - billed as the world's longest - weaved along the road.

6 of 8 The sights delighted the crowd, and tickled the curiosity of some on-duty police.

7 of 8 People of all ages joined the celebrations.

8 of 8 And the Eiffel Tower was even lit up in red to mark the parade - and will remain so for five days as a reminder of the celebrations.