2026 Global Chinese Students Online Spring Festival Gala Wraps Up

On February 12, 2026, the Global Chinese Students Online Spring Festival Gala, also known as the Online Spring Festival Gala, took place with the theme "Galloping Horses in the Spring Breeze." This vibrant event featured a showcase of talents from 35 countries and attracted a record audience of more than 4.6 million viewers worldwide. The gala was guided by the International Cooperation and Exchanges Department of the Ministry of Education and supported by various education departments affiliated with overseas embassies and consulates. It was hosted by the China Study Abroad Service Center and broadcast simultaneously through numerous media outlets, including Xinhua News and CCTV Video.

This year’s gala brought together the artistic talents and enthusiasm of Chinese students studying abroad, international students in China, and friends from around the globe. With over 150 submissions received from various locations, the event marked a historical peak in participation and showcased an array of cultural performances. The performances featured a blend of traditional and contemporary artistry, depicting talents ranging from cultural heritage to modern technological innovations. A variety of captivating acts included traditional Chinese art fused with Western musical instruments and modern interpretations of intangible cultural heritage, underscoring the innovative spirit of the performers.

Among the many highlights of the gala was a new segment called "Dialogue Between Science and Humanities," which invited young scholars who are engaged in advanced scientific research to discuss ethical challenges in technology and the essence of life through artistic expressions. This segment illustrated the cultural literacy of students from scientific and engineering backgrounds, showcasing their creative endeavors in connecting art with science. Furthermore, an encouraging pattern emerged with increased participation from foreign friends not only as performers but also in the program creation process, highlighting the international appeal of China’s rich traditional culture.

The tremendous success of the gala is reflective of the strong cultural confidence and patriotism prevalent among contemporary Chinese students studying abroad. They have transformed their academic experiences and personal insights into authentic creative expressions, manifesting a deep-seated narrative enthusiasm. This transformation is further fueled by the care and development efforts of their home country, reinforcing their sense of identity and purpose, which is poignantly expressed in their performances. The Overseas Students Service Center has a long-standing tradition of organizing Spring Festival Galas, providing a comforting platform for students to connect with their roots and foster a sense of shared longing for home.

The event not only aimed to highlight the artistic talents of overseas students but also sought to encourage international students to share Chinese stories through their youthful perspectives. By doing so, it aimed to connect cultural hearts on a global stage, showcasing Chinese students who possess innovative mindsets and strong cultural foundations. Such initiatives help foster a broader appreciation of Chinese culture among international audiences, allowing the unique narratives and contributions of overseas students to shine.

Although the gala has concluded, viewers can continue to enjoy the remarkable highlights and magical moments from the event through the China Study Abroad Service Center's new media platform. The Ministry of Education's "Study Abroad e-Portal" APP also provides access to additional Spring Festival-related activities, enabling audiences to support their favorite performances and stay connected with the event's legacy.