The Lunar New Year is Sunday, Jan. 22, and this will be the year of the Rabbit. But celebrations took place Saturday.

The Chinese Association of Northwest Arkansas has worked all year to prepare a celebration at the Fayetteville Public Library Event Center.

More than a dozen performers of all ages are involved. The event includes dinner, music and traditional performances.

"We start with a traditional dragon dance first," Dr. Cathy Luo, Chinese Association of NWA Board President, said. "Then we have traditional Asian dance. Then we have some modern dance, singing, musical instruments."

Chinese New Year holds a deep meaning for many and is a time to gather as family.

"Chinese New Year celebration is also called Spring Festival," Dr. Luo said. "So according to the Chinese calendar, Jan. 22 is the first day of Spring. It is a wonderful tradition of bringing the families together and keeping the traditions alive."

"The Chinese calendar is represented by twelve animals," Dr. Boris Bogomilov said. "They represent different human virtues. The rabbit represents kindness and prosperity and intelligence. It is believed that next year is going to be prosperous, healthy, and kind to all of us."

The Chinese Association of Northwest Arkansas was founded in 2013 and also offers a scholarship fund for Chinese students wanting to attend college.