A variety show featuring Chinese music, dances and other traditional arts was held here Sunday, marking the beginning of the celebrations of the Chinese lunar new year in the U.S. city.

Hundreds of local residents, mostly first- or second-generation Chinese immigrants, gathered together for the Chinese-style show -- themed "Embracing the Spring" -- at the Stafford Center, one of the finest performing arts theaters in the Houston area.

During the three-hour bilingual show, visiting Chinese and local artists and performers staged a splendid performance of traditional Chinese arts, such as martial arts, Beijing opera and cross talk, along with pieces of Chinese folk music works.

In the opening remarks, Chinese Consul General in Houston Li Qiangmin offered his new year wishes to all Chinese in the city.

The annual show, the third in a row, was organized by the Chinese Civic Center in Houston.