Tai chi swords, sweet dumplings and lanterns galore will make up Whanganui's first Chinese lantern festival on Friday evening on Moutoa Quay.
The celebration traditionally marks the last day of Chinese New Year which this year began on Friday, February 16.
Event organiser Jan McLeod said with the increased publicity of Chinese New Year and the growing numbers of Chinese people coming to Whanganui it was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the culture.
"Basically we want to give Whanganui a taste of a real Chinese lantern festival by creating as much atmosphere as possible."
Ms McLeod said there was plenty of entertainment to get excited about including Mr Ding the Drummer, a group of young dancers from Palmerston North, tai chi swords and calligraphy writing.