This year's Spring Carnival in Beijing's Chaoyang District is set to open on February 14, the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year and the Western Valentine's Day.

In a bid to create an exotic experience, the organizers have invited performers from seven countries, including Russia and New Zealand, to star in the event's various shows. With Greece being this year's Country of Honor, the carnival attempts to reproduce the romantic setting of the Aegean Sea in Chaoyang Park, the main venue for the event.

Original handicrafts and cuisine from these foreign countries are also promised as a highlight of the five-day carnival. There will also be many activities, such as bumper cars for children and a talent show with prizes for adults.

Initiated in 2002, the carnival has always been a highly anticipated event during the revelry of temple fairs and parties in Beijing during the Spring Festival holiday. Last year's carnival saw an attendance of more than 400,000 visitors.

More info on the carnival

Address: South of Chaoyang Park

Time: Feb.14 - Feb. 19, 2010

Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.