National Day, celebrated on October 1st each year, signifies the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The day is integral to China, marking the culmination of years of struggle and revolution that led to the establishment of a sovereign state. After the formal announcement of the People’s Republic of China by Chairman Mao Zedong on October 1, 1949, the date has been commemorated as the National Day.
National Day in China marks the start of one of the two 'Golden Weeks' in the Chinese calendar, a seven-day holiday that encourages domestic tourism and allows Chinese residents a week of relaxation. The week-long holiday offers all citizens the opportunity to travel and visit family members in different parts of the country. It is also a period of increased consumer spending on shopping, entertainment, and tourism.
The celebrations typically kick off with a grand ceremony in Beijing, including flag-raising, military parades, fireworks, and singing and dancing performances. In recent years, the light shows have become a major event of the National Day, illuminating landmarks across the country. The holiday is also a time to reflect on the country's progress, aspirations, and unity.