China Media Group (CMG) has revealed ambitious plans for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala, announcing its "Galloping Steed, Onward Unstoppable" theme during a Wednesday press event. Scheduled for February 2026, this cultural extravaganza will celebrate the Year of the Horse through innovative interpretations of traditional symbolism.
The gala's central motif draws from the ancient concept of "Qi Ji" – a legendary thousand-mile steed representing perseverance and progress in Chinese culture. This thematic choice aligns with contemporary aspirations, blending historical reverence with modern production values expected to feature cutting-edge holographic displays and cross-cultural performances.
Cultural analysts note the horse's symbolism resonates particularly strongly in 2025, as Asian economies continue demonstrating remarkable post-pandemic recovery. The gala's creative team has promised segments highlighting regional diversity while maintaining technological innovation that has become synonymous with China's most-watched annual television event.
