As the Chinese New Year approaches, the 2025 China Media Group (CMG) Spring Festival Gala is entering its final stages of preparation. An annual highlight of the Lunar New Year celebrations, this event seamlessly blends tradition with modern innovation, captivating audiences across China and beyond.
With its fourth and final rehearsal now complete, the highly anticipated gala is set to deliver a visually stunning and culturally rich experience. Incorporating cutting-edge technology such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), this year’s show promises an immersive spectacle that brings together classic and contemporary performances.
Embracing Heritage with a Modern Touch
Since its inception in 1983, the Spring Festival Gala—widely known as “Chunwan” in China—has been a cultural institution, celebrating the country’s heritage through performances like operas, folk dances, crosstalk, and skits. The 2025 edition continues this tradition while embracing modern artistic expressions.
The stage design for this year’s gala draws inspiration from the Ruyi, an ornamental Chinese scepter symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. With a layout designed to foster a deeper connection between performers and audiences, the set will incorporate traditional motifs, such as intricate paper-cutting, shadow puppetry, and Chinese knot artistry, to enhance the show’s authenticity.
A standout performance in this year’s lineup is The Pillars, a tribute to Beijing’s Central Axis, which was recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This dynamic song-and-dance act celebrates ancient Chinese architectural brilliance with breathtaking visual effects. Another highlight, Beauty by the Water, merges classical ballet with traditional Chinese dance, paying homage to the elegance of water as an artistic element.
Meet “Si Sheng Sheng” – The Gala’s Official Mascot
Adding to the festive excitement, this year’s gala introduces Si Sheng Sheng, a vibrant green snake representing the Year of the Snake. The mascot’s design is deeply rooted in Chinese cultural symbolism, featuring intricate details inspired by historical artifacts. The spiral patterns on its body reference a gilded silver Ruyi discovered in Famen Temple in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, while interwoven vines and floral embellishments symbolise vitality and renewal. Crafted using traditional filigree techniques, Si Sheng Sheng embodies the artistry and heritage that define the Spring Festival.
Technology Breathing New Life into Tradition
Over the years, the Spring Festival Gala has embraced technological advancements to revitalise traditional Chinese arts. The 2025 event continues this trend, integrating digital interactivity, holographic projections, and multi-dimensional stage effects. Peking Opera and Henan Opera will be enhanced with state-of-the-art visual effects, while folk dances and musical performances will be elevated through innovative digital storytelling. This fusion of heritage and modernity ensures that Chinese cultural traditions remain engaging for contemporary audiences, particularly younger generations.
A Celebration of Unity and Cultural Pride
For millions of Chinese families worldwide, watching the Spring Festival Gala is more than a festive tradition—it is a heartfelt celebration of unity and togetherness. Whether gathered in living rooms or tuning in from abroad, audiences share a collective experience that transcends borders.
Beyond its entertainment value, the gala also serves as a mirror of contemporary society. Through satirical skits and witty crosstalk performances, the show addresses modern social themes, sparking both laughter and reflection. Additionally, the event highlights the cultural diversity of China, featuring regional traditions and lesser-known folk arts to foster a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.
The 2025 CMG Spring Festival Gala promises to be a spectacular blend of nostalgia and innovation, preserving cherished traditions while showcasing the future of Chinese performing arts. As it continues to evolve, the gala remains a symbol of cultural pride and a bridge connecting generations of Chinese people around the world.