Britney Spears shuts down Las Vegas strip

Britney Spears made a spectacular entrance to Las Vegas surrounded by fire-breathers and snake-charmers as she was welcomed to Sin City for the start of her two-year concert residency.

The Toxic singer will kick off her gigs at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on 27 December (13), and she was officially welcomed to town at a circus-themed event on Tuesday (03Dec13).

A section of the city's famous Strip was shut down as Spears pulled up to the hotel in a convoy of black cars, and she was greeted by more than 1,000 fans, who turned out to see a parade of fire-breathers, contortionists, snake-charmers and dancers who accompanied the star.

Spears walked a red carpet and accepted a bouquet of flowers before telling the crowd, "I'm so happy to be here right now. This is my city. I can't wait to see you guys (on) opening night."

The Britney: Piece of Me show will feature 50 concerts a year at the venue.