Sri Lanka, Jan. 29 -- The opening gala of the 2026 "Happy Chinese New Year" cultural events in Sri Lanka was held at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, marking the beginning of a series of celebrations ahead of the traditional Chinese holiday.

Co-hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, the gala notably features artists and performers from Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China's Yunnan Province. The art troupe presented the audience with authentic Bai ethnic performances, including songs, dancing, and musical performances with traditional instruments.

The gala was attended by an audience of around 1,200, including Speaker of House Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, Chinese Ambassador to Sri ...