WASHINGTON — Popping firecrackers and banging drums have welcomed in the Chinese New Year, the year of the Monkey in the Chinese 12-year animal zodiac cycle.

Icy-cold weather held down the size of the crowds in Chinatown, but enthusiastic celebrants gathered under the Friendship Arch at 7th and H Streets Northwest, in the heart of Chinatown.

Colorful lion dancers snaked through the streets and paid courtesy calls on Chinese businesses.

Inside the Chinatown Community Cultural Center, the graceful notes of the Alice Gu-Zheng Ensemble delighted the audience with traditional Chinese music played on guzengs, also known as Chinese zithers.

The new year is a time for families to gather — to eat, drink and celebrate. The new year also provides a fresh start, an opportunity to turn the pages of life for a new beginning.