At 8 p.m. Beijing time on February 16, millions of viewers around the world turned their attention to China’s most celebrated cultural event—the 2026 Spring Festival Gala presented by China Media Group (CMG). The program was broadcast across television and online platforms in 85 languages—including English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian—with support from more than 3,300 media outlets in over 200 countries and regions.
This year marks the Year of the Horse in the Chinese lunar calendar. In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes self-improvement, perseverance, and progress. Reflecting this spirit, the gala adopted the theme: “A Superb Steed Gallops Forward—Its Momentum Unstoppable,” inspiring audiences to continue striving toward their dreams.
Since its inception in 1983, the Spring Festival Gala has become an integral part of reunion celebrations for Chinese families worldwide. Today, nearly 20 countries and regions recognize the Spring Festival as an official holiday, and about one-fifth of the world’s population participates in some form of celebration.
An Unprecedented Blend of Technology and Tradition
A major highlight of this year’s gala was the extensive use of AI-generated content (AIGC). The dynamic spectacle of thousands of galloping horses was brought vividly to life onstage through advanced digital technology. In addition, a performance inspired by the ancient Silk Road recreated horses from mural paintings as if transporting them into the modern world.
Acrobatic performances also incorporated innovative scientific and visual technologies, offering audiences a unique experience that blended age-old traditions with contemporary aesthetics.
The classic finale song “Unforgettable Tonight,” performed annually for nearly three decades, received a fresh presentation infused with modern technological flair.
A Cultural Stage Entering the Age of Robots
The 2026 gala was not only a cultural showcase but also a demonstration of real-world technological applications. Four types of humanoid robots operated inside the CMG studio—some performing onstage, others assisting behind the scenes.
Robots from Galaxy General, Songyuan Dynamics, Yushu Technology, and Magic Atom appeared together onstage. Although the 2025 gala marked the debut of robot performances, this year’s event offered a clearer glimpse into China’s rapidly advancing humanoid robotics industry.
Experts note that the presentation represents more than mere technological display; it is a practical example of China’s national humanoid-robot development strategy. The gala highlighted the growing potential for industrial-scale applications of robotics.
Harbin: The Frozen City as a Stunning Branch Venue
Among this year’s branch venues, the northern Chinese city of Harbin—known as the “Ice City”—stood out prominently. Its stage, constructed entirely from ice and snow, created a captivating visual atmosphere.
Even without large modern screens, the purity of ice combined with creative lighting offered audiences an unforgettable experience. Performances by local artists, actors, and singers showcased the city’s hospitality and festive spirit.
Chinese New Year Lights Up the Skies of Dubai
Another symbol of the Spring Festival’s global influence was seen at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. On the eve of the festival, CMG presented a special light show—its seventh consecutive year on the world’s tallest building.
Images of the gala mascot, the ancient Chinese character for “horse,” and galloping horses illuminated the tower. Organizers described the display as a symbol of China’s courage, resilience, and progress in the new era.
The horse holds cultural significance in both Chinese and Arab civilizations, making the event a meaningful bridge between the two cultures. Tourists and residents alike gathered in large numbers to enjoy the spectacle.
Greetings and Diplomatic Messages on the International Stage
On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, leaders from numerous countries and heads of international organizations sent greetings to the Chinese people and extended congratulations to President Xi Jinping.
Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the progress of the Russia-China strategic partnership and expressed hopes for deeper cooperation. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva pledged to expand bilateral collaboration. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised China’s modernization efforts and global initiatives.
Leaders from Nepal, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates also offered greetings. Senior officials from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization wished China continued development and prosperity for its people.
A Symbol of Globalization
Altogether, the 2026 Spring Festival Gala was far more than a cultural performance; it represented a remarkable convergence of technological innovation, cultural heritage, international cooperation, and diplomatic goodwill.
From Beijing’s grand stage to Harbin’s frozen landscapes, and from China’s heartland to Dubai’s soaring skyline, the Chinese New Year has truly become a global festival.
Experts observe that this celebration demonstrates a powerful truth: when tradition meets technology and culture reaches the world stage, a festival transcends national borders and becomes a cherished asset for all humanity.
Source: CMG.