On February 15, the 2026 Xinjiang International Spring Festival Gala opened with a striking performance centered on the horse—a symbol of vitality, movement, and cultural continuity deeply embedded in the region’s heritage. Through digital technology, iconic ink-wash horses appeared to leap from their scrolls, blending seamlessly with live horse performances and choreography. Ethnic dance, human-machine magic performances, and contemporary interpretations of Chinese opera brought traditional culture into conversation with contemporary creativity, while a dance inspired by the painting Muqam paid tribute to generations of cultural inheritors. Together, these performances offered a fresh interpretation of traditional culture through a contemporary lens.

International participation was another defining feature of the evening. The gala brought together 20 performers from 15 countries, highlighting its broad international reach. A singer from Kazakhstan performed the beloved Chinese folk song Mo Li Hua (Jasmine Flower) in Chinese, while an international children's choir joined children from Xinjiang in a performance of You and Me. Other highlights included bilingual cross-cultural comedy and musical collaborations that blended Chinese and international classics, creating lively exchanges between different artistic traditions.

Throughout the evening, traditional culture was presented in dialogue with contemporary creativity, while technology and artistic expression worked hand in hand to connect local stories with a broader international audience.

With its fast-paced format, the gala presented a contemporary portrait of Xinjiang while exploring new ways to connect tradition with modern audiences. By bringing together cultural heritage, artistic innovation, and digital technology, the event demonstrated how traditional culture can continue to evolve, engage audiences across borders, and find renewed relevance in the modern era. The program also balanced cultural depth with youthful energy, while New Year greetings shared by overseas Chinese communities and international friends extended the festive spirit beyond borders, turning the celebration into a warm link connecting people across the world.