YANGON, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese traditional lion and dragon contest kicked off in Myanmar's Yangon, in celebration of Chinese Lunar New Year, late Wednesday.

Organized by Myanmar Lion and Dragon Dance Federation, the 14th lion and dragon dance competition was inaugurated in Latha township of Chinatown.

The competition aims to maintain Chinese traditional lion and dragon dances which portray the unity of all people," U Kyaw Kyaw, chairman of Myanmar Lion and Dragon Dance Federation, told the opening ceremony.

He also pledged to host further competitions which can showcase breathtaking lion and dragon dance routines.

Yu Bianjiang, counsellor of Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, also extended his pleasure of witnessing celebrations of Chinese Lunar New Year across Myanmar.

The lion and dragon dances symbolize bringing good luck to people.

Both lion and dragon dances are accompanied by the rhythm of drums, cymbals and gongs and the instruments synchronized to the lion and dragon's dance movements and actions.

Scheduled to last until Feb. 10, 16 lion dance, 11 dragon dance groups will take part at the five-day contest.