MADRID, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- In the Usera district of Madrid, home to most of the city's Chinese residents, people are grasping the growing festive vibe of the upcoming Chinese New Year.
More than 50 unique events have been unfolding and will last through the following weeks, including shows, fireworks, a Chinese artisan products fair and a traditional parade attracting both Chinese and locals.
And not just in Usera. Across the Spanish capital of Madrid, a host of entertaining cultural and food events will delight Chinese residents, Spaniards and tourists alike.
"We invite all 'Madrileños' to share in the charm and the joy of the Chinese New Year," Chinese Ambassador to Spain Wu Haitao said at the official presentation of the festivities earlier this week.
A key highlight likely to attract plenty of visitors is the sixth edition of the "China Taste" festival. The gastronomic event sees 13 restaurants in the region collaborating to present Chinese cuisine to locals.
In cooperation with the Red Cross, funds raised from selling the cuisine will go to charity projects.
Madrid's emblematic Plaza de España will hold a two-day exhibition of works by contemporary female artists from both countries starting on Feb. 4. The event will feature the different cultural origins and experiences of the creators, making the artistic exchange a unique encounter.
Anyone keen on keeping fit will be able to participate in the traditional "Spring Race -- Year of the Rabbit," scheduled for Jan. 29 across the streets of Madrid.
"This year, we are going to run through the streets of Madrid with our friends and family, and we think this is a fun way of celebrating," Yuan Yu, a Madrid-based Chinese resident, told Xinhua, adding that there will also be Chinese films hitting the screens in Madrid cinemas.
Meanwhile, two other Chinese residents, Nieve and Fernando, who only gave their first names, told Xinhua they would like to spend more time with their children "for a nice intimate celebration."
Nieve, who usually celebrates the Chinese New Year with simple traditional rites, said it is exciting to see a growing number of people "taking increasing interest in Chinese culture." ■