Performers in traditional lion costumes took part in a lion dance performance during the Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown, London. Accompanied by drumming and cymbals, the lions visited shop entrances where business owners hung lettuce above the doors as part of the traditional ritual. The lion leapt to grab the lettuce before spitting it out to symbolically scatter good fortune, blessings and prosperity to the businesses and gathered crowds, marking the start of the Lunar New Year festivities.