National Day of the People’s Republic of China – The Golden Week

China is one among many Asian countries that enjoys the celebration of numerous cultures and religions. Legally China celebrates 7 holidays a year – National Day, Mid-Autumn Festival, May Day, Spring Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, New Year's Day and Qingming Festival. The duration of the holidays and its dates proceeds as follows: New Year's Day, Jan 1st, Spring Festival, subject to the lunar calendar but will last 3 days, Qingming Festival, April 4th or 5th, May Day on May 1st, the Dragon Boat Festival is on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, Mid-Autumn is on the 15th of August, whilst the National Day which falls on the 1st of October has a celebration which lasts 3 days. The National Day of China is one of great importance, regalia and celebration in the nation. This period is usually called a 'Golden Week' in China. The 3 days are usually converged with two weekends, and many locals go out and celebrate during this period, giving the economy a great boost, with the added spending. Many locals re-unite with family members and generally enjoy themselves. Those planning to visit Beijing during this time may partake in the celebrations, but it is important not to make any business trips or meeting during this period. The tourist attractions are also thronged with locals, homes are decorated, streets and shops are lit up, and the atmosphere is cheerful. One colour a traveller may notice that can be seen throughout China during National Day is red. Adorning offices, shops and homes, one may see red lanterns. Red is considered an auspicious colour in China, and is believed it would invoke joy, happiness and good luck. Fireworks displays are a common occurrence across all of China. Some cities have their own unique celebration. Of which Beijing has what is called the National Day Flower Bed Festival. The highlight of the festival is the creation made at Tiananmen Square. Elaborate and beautifully manicured creations can be seen.   Those wishing to partake in the festivities of National Day, would wake up early morning and reach Tiananmen Square to watch the hoisting of the national flag. After which the national forces parade through the square in all their finery. National Day of the People's Republic of China – The Golden Week is a post from: Traveling China from Traveling China http://www.chinaya.org

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