Back when our parents were young, television was considered a rare luxury. In those days, there was only a single 14-inch black-and-white TV set in the entire village, and it belonged to the local party branch. Only on special occasions would this precious TV be carefully brought out to present an audiovisual feast for all the villagers. Whenever a show was about to begin, people of all ages would pour out of their homes, creating a lively crowd. Some brought their own small stools, while others simply stood under the night sky, eyes fixed on the tiny screen, fully absorbed in the gripping stories.
Television dramas like The Legendary Fok sparked a frenzy throughout the village. The courageous and fearless image of Huo Yuanjia, along with the spectacular martial arts scenes, completely mesmerized the audience.
Our parents often recall how rare and precious a television was in their youth. Back then, the entire village shared a single 14-inch black-and-white TV set, which belonged to the local brigade committee. This treasured device would only be carefully brought out on special occasions to offer the whole village a rare audiovisual treat.
When it was time for a broadcast, people—young and old—would pour out of their homes, filling the village square with excitement. Some brought their own small stools, while others simply stood in the evening darkness, their eyes locked on the tiny screen, completely immersed in the unfolding stories.
TV dramas like The Legendary Fok (Huo Yuanjia) sparked a viewing craze across the village. The brave and fearless image of Huo Yuanjia, along with the breathtaking martial arts scenes, captivated everyone and left them in awe.
Although the TV screen often flickered with static and the signal was far from stable, none of this ever dampened people’s enthusiasm for watching television. In an era when information was relatively scarce, television opened a window to the outside world. It offered glimpses into different cultures and ways of life, sparking curiosity and wonder.
Each viewing felt like a magical journey—bringing joy, imagination, and a sense of connection to something greater than daily village life.
Though I never personally experienced the days when the entire village gathered around a single black-and-white TV, my parents’ vivid stories have painted a heartwarming picture of those times—full of warmth, laughter, and community spirit.
In my own memories, celebrating the Lunar New Year with family and watching television together was just as beautiful and unforgettable.
In the early 1990s, our family welcomed its very first television. That day was filled with excitement and joy. When the news spread, relatives came over one after another, eager to catch a glimpse of this fascinating new device.
Back then, television programs were a novelty to everyone. Even weather forecasts featuring scenic spots felt fresh and captivating. The whole family would gather around the TV, eyes glued to the screen, as if stepping into an entirely new world.
The signal wasn’t always stable. Late at night, when the TV station stopped broadcasting, a multicolored striped circle would appear on the screen. As a young child, I had no idea what it was called—I only found it mysterious and intriguing. It was probably a signal marker, quietly signifying the end of a day’s programming.
When it comes to New Year memories with television, the most unforgettable part has to be the annual Spring Festival Gala. As a child, every Lunar New Year’s Eve, our family would finish the reunion dinner early and gather in front of the TV, eagerly awaiting the start of the gala.
Back then, although the variety of programs wasn’t as rich and diverse as it is today, every act was filled with sincerity and joy. For my younger self, the most memorable performances were the comedy sketches by iconic comedians like Zhao Benshan, Feng Gong, Song Dandan, and Chen Peisi. With their witty dialogues and lively performances, they had the whole family roaring with laughter. The room was filled with joy and warmth.
esides the comedy sketches, the traditional performing arts featured in the Spring Festival Gala were also my favorites. Crosstalk comedians dazzled with their rapid-fire wit, using clever banter to showcase the beauty of the Chinese language. Acrobats amazed the audience with their extraordinary skills, delivering breathtaking performances that often had us on the edge of our seats. And those classic songs—timeless melodies—echoed through every street and alley, becoming cherished symbols of that era.
