The Phoenix Chinese Week organization, in cooperation with Phoenix Sister Cities, celebrates Chinese Week 2008 with numerous cultural, business and entertaining activities. In addition to enjoying the annual three-day festival at the Chinese Cultural Center, Phoenix-area residents also can celebrate Chinese New Year 4706, the Year of the Rat, at a tourism, investment and business opportunities seminar; a Chengdu Arts Center variety performance; and a photographic exhibit of Chengdu, China.

The public can enjoy the annual Chinese Week three-day festival for free from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, at the Chinese Cultural Center, 668 N. 44th St.

The tourism, investment and business seminar will explore opportunities for trade and investment in one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing regions of China. The city of Chengdu, with a population of more than 10 million people, has become one of the top destinations for business and travel. Seminar participants will hear from top Chengdu officials about new and emerging business opportunities. This event is free and will take place from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, Grand Canyon Room, 2400 E. Missouri Ave. Please call 602-534-3751 to reserve your space at this event.

The celebration will continue with a variety act performance by a professional troupe from the Chengdu Arts Center. The act combines Chinese acrobatics with music, dance and classic Sichuan opera such as face changing. Performers will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St. For tickets, call 602-262-7272.

Throughout the month of February, Phoenix Sister Cities is hosting a Chengdu photo exhibit at the Sandra Day O'Connor United States Courthouse, 401 W. Washington St. The exhibit will feature photos that display the culture, art, history and beauty of Chengdu, China.

A 10-course Chinese New Year banquet will be served Sunday, Feb. 10, at the Great Wall Restaurant, 3446 W. Camelback Road.

For more information, visit phoenixsistercities.org or call 602-534-3751.