Organizers have previewed Sydney's 2019 Lunar New Year festivities with a harborside gathering on Jan 29.

The 10-day festival which begins on Friday is the largest of its kind outside of Asia and according to authorities Sydneysiders will be treated to cultural delights centering around this year's zodiac sign, the pig.

"They're said to be happy, to be honest, sincere and brave people who are born in the year of the pig," Sydney lord mayor Clover Moore said.

Giant lanterns depicting all 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac will be on display throughout the city's scenic areas, including an eight-meter stack of monkeys and a six-meter inflatable ox.

This year's events will include the largest dragon boat races in the southern hemisphere, culinary events, workshops, lion dancing and live cultural performances.

Festival curator Valerie Khoo said Sydney's Lunar New Year Festival is not only for the city's residents of Asian descent, but a chance for the wider community to learn more about the culture.

Events in Sydney are expected to attract over 1.3 million people.