London kicked off what were heralded as the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Asia Thursday, beginning a major festival of the country’s artistic, cultural and culinary heritage.

Pop superstar Li Yuchun, 21, was guest of honour in the busy Oxford Street shopping district to switch on the hundreds of red Chinese lanterns that will light the way to the bustling Chinatown district of Soho.

As fireworks rocket into the sky and restaurants open their doors Sunday, the giant London Eye ferris wheel on the south bank of the River Thames will be lit red to mark the occasion.

More than 100 other events are planned across the city until March, including a Chinese film festival, theatre, photography and art exhibitions.

Of course, the several major Chinatown areas in cities across the US will be joining in. CCTV9, the English-language television service from China will offer their 4-hour celebration three times over the weekend.