This year’s production leans heavily into the city’s identity as the home of the Huainanzi, the 2nd-century BC text that first systematically recorded the 24 solar terms. Organizers are utilizing AI and advanced stagecraft to modernize traditional themes for a global audience, moving beyond simple performance to create a visual reimagining of the lunar festival.

The lineup features a cross-cultural collaboration, including a duet of The Music of the Night by Sarah Brightman and Zhou Shen. Pipa player Fang Jinlong will perform alongside cellist Ana Rucner and pianist Oskar Roman Jezior to interpret both classical and folk compositions. The gala will also feature appearances by Li Sitong and Wu Shaoqing, stars of the recent film Dear You. The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. Beijing time on September 25, highlighting the festival's focus on the full moon as a universal symbol of reunion.