Communities around the world are celebrating the Chinese New Year.
In the UK, Royal Mail have also released special stamps to join in on the celebrations. Here's one of them.
Chinese New Year is the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. It's also known as the Spring Festival.
Before the dragon year began, last-minute shoppers were out buying New Year gifts. Lots of items are in red which is considered a lucky colour.
Fireworks light up the sky too!
At this temple in Beijing, the capital city of China, people burn incense to pray for good fortune on the first day of the new year.
And here's a Chinese New Year procession in the Spanish capital city of Madrid.
Each year in the Chinese calendar is named after one of 12 animals - this year is the Year of the Dragon.
Here are some soldiers performing a dragon-dance in Indonesia.
The word "dragon", written in Chinese characters, and the number 2012 are marked out here using sparklers. Happy New Year!
Lots of people get involved in the celebrations. This performer is in traditional costume and make-up and is taking part in festivities at a temple in Beijing, China.
The celebrations aren't just in China though. Chinese New Year is celebrated by communities all around the world.
