National Day of China
🇨🇳 China, Hong Kong SAR China
- Multiple Countries
- Public Holiday
- Countrywide
- Fixed date
Overview
National Day of China, known in Chinese as Guóqìng Jié, marks the founding of the People's Republic of China on 1 October 1949. It is the country's principal national holiday and is also observed as a public holiday in Hong Kong.
What It Is
National Day falls on 1 October each year and is a public holiday in mainland China and Hong Kong. In mainland China it opens a long break commonly called Golden Week, with adjusted working days to extend the time off, and many people use it for family visits and domestic travel. Public squares and parks are decorated with flags and flower displays, and official ceremonies mark the day. In Hong Kong, the holiday is typically marked with a fireworks display over Victoria Harbour.
Why It Matters
The date commemorates 1 October 1949, when Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China from the rostrum of Tiananmen in Beijing, following the Chinese Communist Party's victory in the civil war. The proclamation established a new government for the country and is treated as the start of the modern state. As the anniversary of that moment, National Day serves as the central occasion for expressing national unity, state identity, and pride in the country's development.
Countries Celebrating
2 countries
See what else is celebrated today around the world.
Discover other holidays and observances happening right now.