China Media Group has unveiled the official theme and logo for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala, one of the most watched television events on the planet. The upcoming edition, which will be marked by the Year of the Horse, promises to be an exceptionally dynamic and ambitious cultural spectacle. The theme is „Galloping Steed, Onward Unstoppable“ and clearly suggests energy, movement and unwavering progress.
The central motif is the concept of „Qi Ji“, an ancient term from Chinese culture referring to the legendary thousand-year-old horse. This symbol embodies the spirit of pioneering, perseverance and continuous development, which, according to the creators, is deeply rooted in the character of the Chinese nation. At the same time, „Qi Ji“ sounds similar to the word „miracle,“ which reinforces the message of determination to achieve new successes and confidently fulfil national goals.
The theme of the gala evening is closely linked to the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan for 2026–2030 and expresses an optimistic vision of a new stage of development. It also draws inspiration from the classic work „Li Sao“ from the Songs of Chu collection, where riding a noble horse symbolises the courage to lead the way and open the path for others.
The logo for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala is a visually rich interpretation of this idea. It uses traditional Chinese decorative elements such as „yunwen“ cloud motifs and „leiwen“ thunder patterns, which together create an image of four noble horses walking side by side. The design is conceived as changeable, cyclical and infinitely expandable, evoking thousands of horses in unstoppable motion.
The combination of traditional aesthetics and modern dynamism is intended to create a festive atmosphere and unite Chinese communities around the world during the Chinese New Year celebrations. Since 1983, the Spring Festival Gala has remained a cultural phenomenon, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the most watched television broadcast in the world.