Ma Nian Master: The Spring Festival Gala lingo

Become Chinese in time for Chinese New Year!

The Spring Festival Gala is just around the corner. Follow CGTN's Guo Meiping to check out the must-know words before watching the show!

1. 春晚 Chūnwǎn – Spring Festival Gala

Chunwan, the Spring Festival Gala, is China's biggest television event of the year. It's the ultimate crossover – think Super Bowl meets New Year's Eve. This year's Chunwan airs on February 16. On this night, families gather. The whole country, along with millions overseas, is transfixed by the same show. Together, Chunwan serves up music, dance and laughs galore in a fusion of tradition and modern life. But do you know the two most iconic Chunwan comedy formats?

2. 相声 Xiàngsheng – Crosstalk

Xiangsheng, or crosstalk, is a traditional Chinese comedy style. Imagine stand-up, but in a duet, trading banter and puns in quick-fire quips. You might not catch every joke, but their timing and delivery will have you chuckling all the same.

3. 小品 Xiǎopǐn – Comedy Sketch

Xiaopin is one of the most beloved parts of Chunwan. They draw from everyday life and current social themes. Think of Xiaopin as a comedy time capsule that captures the spirit of an entire year – in just 10-15 minutes.

Videographer: Han Xu

Graphic designer: Huang Ruiqi