A snapshot from CCTV News showcases a festive Wuxi. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

The 2025 CCTV Spring Festival Gala is set to expand its venues to include Wuxi in Jiangsu province, Chongqing, Wuhan in Hubei province, and Lhasa in Xizang autonomous region, in addition to its traditional venue in Beijing, local media reported on Dec 24.

Wuxi's selection as one of the new venues likely stems from its vibrant local atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and growing significance in the realms of industry and commerce.

Wuxi, located in the prosperous Jiangnan region, ranks at the forefront of national large and medium-sized cities in terms of economic output, with its per capita GDP consistently ranking first among such cities nationwide.

Wuxi embodies the charm of Jiangnan with its waterways. The canals connect ancient towns, gardens, small bridges, flowing water, and traditional residences, creating a poetic and picturesque setting.

Wuxi is a cultural hub in Jiangnan, giving rise to generations of thinkers, scientists, economists, writers, and educators. Traditional crafts such as Huishan clay figurines, Yixing purple clay pottery, and Xiju Opera have been well-protected and passed down through the ages.

Wuxi stands as a beacon of industry and commerce, housing pivotal national strategic emerging industries like integrated circuits, the internet of things, biopharmaceuticals, and aerospace. These burgeoning industries herald the start of a chapter of industrial might for this time-honored city.