Traditional characters from Chinese culture and Chinese gods from ancient times will be on hand to greet visitors, including the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, led by the monkey.

Shanghai's Happy Valley amusement park, part of Sheshan National Tourist Resort, is celebrating the Spring Festival with a wide range of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, from Feb 8 to 22.

From Feb 8 to 13 an international comedy show will fill the park with laughter as more than 20 world-famous circus masters will delight guests with their acrobatic street performances daily. The circus team has members from all over the world and has won the coveted "Gold Clown" prize given out at the International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo, and will perform "The Happy Conductor" routine.

Additionally, traditional characters from Chinese culture will be on hand to greet visitors, including the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, led by the monkey. Traditional Chinese gods from ancient times - luck, wealth, longevity and happiness - have been given a modern makeover and will perform a rock and roll medley.

Happy Valley is also cooperating with the China Welfare Lottery to offer visitors a lottery ticket with the chance to win up to 80,000 yuan.

The float parade, merry-go-round, aquarium adventure, as well as the other 100 rides will be available over the festival period.

Tips: From Feb 8 to 14 and on Feb 22, all the theme activities after 5.30 p.m. in the park including a Spring Festival art show and a Lantern Festival party will be available at a discounted price of 100 yuan ($15) / person.