The Chinese Spring Festival falls on Feb 16 this year. And, as usual, China Central Television's (CCTV) Spring Festival Gala is a trending topic on social media, with plenty of speculation over what performers and programs will appear.

Despite being the most watched television show in the world, with at least 700 million viewers every year, the Gala is primarily domestic entertainment for the Chinese. However, this year’s event, according to director Yang Dongsheng, could be the most “international” Gala ever.