Participants put on costumes and learn about the characters from the classic novel Journey to the West. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"We'd like to portray a Chinese style of animation," said Xu Beibei, chief director of the show. "Ink painting, paper-cutting and shadow puppetry will all be incorporated into the animations. The goal is to reveal the fun and charm of Chinese New Year."

In response to the latest media demands, the program will leap beyond traditional TV episodes, producing audio content, short videos and celebrity vlogs. Audiences have expressed great enthusiasm and curiosity about the show since last December. Many posted merry family photos for the production team – memories of pasting Spring Festival couplets on the door, making dumplings and having family reunion dinners.