National Day of China is celebrated in China every year on October 1. It is a public holiday and the celebrations are held over three days. Since most people get holidays in the middle of the week, the week of National Day of China is also known as “Golden Week.” It is also the second-largest holiday period in China. The decision to offer weekdays as holidays was used to boost domestic tourism and to allow families to make long journeys to visit each other. However, the day can be celebrated without visiting your family as well.
History of National Day of China
On October 1, 1949, Chairman Mao Zedong announced the founding of the People’s Republic of China from the Tiananmen Gate. This was hailed as the end of a bitter civil war between the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party under the leadership of Mao. In December 1949, the Chinese government passed the resolution on the National Day of the People’s Republic of China, making October 1 the National Day of China.From 1950 to 1959, grand rallies were held to celebrate this day of national importance. In 1960, the Communist Party and the State Council decided to abide by communist principles and make the celebrations simpler and more personal. From 1960 until 1970, mass rallies were still held in Tiananmen Square, but military parades were canceled. From 1971 to 1983, visiting parks and other galas were organized to replace mass rallies and military parades. Grand celebrations have been rarely held since then. However, the exceptions were 1984 and 1999 to commemorate the 35th anniversary and 50th anniversary of the founding of the party, respectively.Since 2019, the “National Day Honors List” has been published for the occasion by the State Council to honor Chinese people who had contributed to charitable actions, the growth of the economy, sports, diplomacy, and the promotion of Chinese culture and the arts. They are honored with national medals and honorary titles. The medals and titles are awarded by the President and General Secretary in an award ceremony, a few days before National Day of China.
National Day of China timeline
The Chinese invent printing and the first use of paper money.
The Chinese lose the war to the British and the importation of opium to China is allowed.
It’s the end of the Qing Empire and China becomes a republic.
China hosts the Summer Olympics for the first time in Beijing.
National Day of China FAQs
How long is National Day in China?
China’s National Day is celebrated over one week, beginning from October 1 and running until October 7.
How do Chinese people celebrate China's National Day?
Celebrations include fireworks, concerts, sports events, and cultural events. Public places are decorated using a festive, patriotic theme.
How old is China?
China is one of the world’s four ancient civilizations, and the written history of China dates back to over 3,000 years ago
How to Observe National Day of China
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Wish your Chinese friends
Don't forget to wish a very happy National Day of China to all your Chinese friends. If you have a Chinese coworker, you can bring them a gift too.
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Visit Chinatown
No celebration of National Day of China is complete without visiting the Chinatown in your city. The area has an air of festivity and you can witness the traditional ways of celebrating the event.
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Enjoy Chinese food
Another great way to celebrate National Day of China is by treating yourself to Chinese foods. Order from your favorite Chinese restaurant, or better still, visit them on the day.
5 Interesting Facts About China
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The most populated country in the world
The national population of China is nearly 1.4 billion.
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Mandarin is not the only language
There are others such as Yue, Wu, Minbei, Minnan, Xiang, Gan and Hakka.
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There is an Elderly Rights Law
Adult children are legally required to visit and support their elderly parents aged 60 and above.
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Fortune cookies did not originate in China
They were invented in San Francisco and are not a Chinese custom.
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China has an extensive railway system
It can loop around the earth two times and has over 25,000km of high-speed railway.
Why National Day of China is Important
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To be appreciative
National Day of China is a celebration of Chinese food, people, and culture. When you observe the day, in a way you also express your appreciation of the Chinese people.
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It’s a landmark day in modern history
China is probably the most rigorous communist country in the world. This day in 1949 became a landmark moment in history and global politics when China accepted a communist government.
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A day of inclusivity
By celebrating the National Day of China, people find a way to be appreciative of the Chinese way of life. This helps them overcome prejudices and become truly inclusive.
National Day of China dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | October 1 | Saturday |
| 2023 | October 1 | Sunday |
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
