National Day: October 1
National Day is a public holiday in China.
Every year on October 1, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) celebrates the anniversary of its founding. 2010 marks the 61st anniversary of the PRC.
History of National Day in China
Under the leadership of the Communist Party, the Chinese people, on October 1, 1949 declared victory in its War of Liberation against the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai Shek. A grand ceremony marking the founding of the People’s Republic of China was held on this day in Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Mao Zedong, Chairman of the Central People’s Government, solemnly declared the founding of the PRC at the ceremony and raised the first national flag of China himself. 300,000 soldiers and other personnel gathered on the square for the grand parade and procession.
China’s National Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
China celebrates its national day grandly with a variety of organized events. The National Day Parade is included as an important component of the grand ceremony, and it’s organized every year in grand fashion. Fireworks displays are usually held nationwide in all cities, accompanied by National Day concerts.
The National Day Flower Bed festival can be seen in the main squares of many cities during National Day. The flowers in Tiananmen Square are typically the grandest and most beautiful of all. Hanging red Chinese lanterns during China’s National Day symbolizes luck and happiness.
In the past, National Day was usually marked by large political gatherings and speeches, military parades, and state banquets. However, when China’s economy developed in 2000, the holiday was made to last for a full week. This is called a Golden Week. However, controversy within the government about the Golden Week’s effectiveness to increase consumption has led some to reduce or eliminate the Golden Week.
Other interesting posts:
- The Birthday of Confucius Celebrated in China and Taiwan
- The Chung Yeung Festival is Celebrated in China
- China and Taiwan Celebrate Ching Ming or Tomb Sweeping Festival
- China Celebrates the Lantern Festival with Traditional Lighted Lanterns
- North Korea rejoices Founding of Workers’ Party
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