Chinese National Day
2026Thursday, October 1 – 7 Wednesday
Quick Facts
- Date
- Thursday, October 1, 2026 – 7 Wednesday 2026
- Observed in
- China
- Type
- National Holiday
What is Chinese National Day?
Chinese National Day (国庆节, Guóqìng Jié) is the national holiday of the People's Republic of China, celebrated on October 1st each year. It commemorates the founding of the PRC in 1949, when Chairman Mao Zedong proclaimed the establishment of the new republic from Tiananmen Gate in Beijing.
The holiday has been extended into what is known as Golden Week (黄金周)—a seven-day public holiday from October 1-7 that was created in 1999 to boost domestic tourism and consumer spending. It is one of China's two Golden Weeks (the other being Spring Festival).
National Day is marked by patriotic celebrations, special events, flag-raising ceremonies, and massive numbers of Chinese people traveling domestically for vacation.
When is Chinese National Day 2026?
Chinese National Day is on Thursday, October 1 – 7 Wednesday in 2026. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
On October 1, 1949, Chairman Mao Zedong stood at Tiananmen Gate and proclaimed to the world: "The Chinese people have stood up!" This declaration marked the end of decades of civil war and foreign invasion, establishing the People's Republic of China.
The first National Day parade in 1949 was relatively modest, with about 300,000 people attending. Over the decades, National Day parades have grown into massive displays of military strength and national achievement, though large-scale parades are now reserved for major anniversaries (every 10 years).
In 1999, China introduced the Golden Week system, extending National Day into a seven-day holiday to promote domestic tourism. This created one of the world's largest annual human migrations as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel during this period.
The 70th anniversary in 2019 featured the largest military parade in PRC history, with 15,000 troops, 580 pieces of military equipment, and 160 aircraft.
How It's Celebrated
Flag-Raising Ceremony at Tiananmen: Each National Day, thousands gather at Tiananmen Square before dawn to watch the flag-raising ceremony. The ceremony begins precisely at sunrise and is performed by the People's Liberation Army Honor Guard.
Patriotic Decorations: Cities across China are decorated with red lanterns, flags, flower displays, and illuminated buildings. Tiananmen Square features massive flower arrangements and portraits.
Fireworks and Light Shows: Major cities host spectacular fireworks displays and light shows, with Shanghai's Bund and Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour being famous locations.
Special Events and Performances: Theaters, concert halls, and TV stations feature patriotic performances. The CCTV National Day Gala is watched by hundreds of millions.
Travel and Tourism: Most Chinese use the Golden Week to travel domestically, visiting family or taking vacations. Popular destinations include Beijing, Shanghai, and scenic areas.
Consumer Spending: Retailers offer major sales and promotions during Golden Week, making it a significant shopping period similar to Black Friday.
Where It's Observed
Chinese National Day is a public holiday in 1 country. In 2026, it falls on Thursday, October 1 – 7 Wednesday.
Fun Facts
- The 2019 National Day parade featured 15,000 troops, 580 pieces of equipment, and 160 aircraft
- During the 2019 Golden Week, 782 million domestic trips were made—more than half China's population
- The flag at Tiananmen Square must be replaced daily because wind damage is so severe
- Mao Zedong's portrait on Tiananmen Gate is replaced with a new painting every year before National Day
- The name 'Golden Week' comes from the economic boost the holiday provides through tourism spending
- In 2023, domestic tourism revenue during Golden Week exceeded 750 billion yuan ($103 billion USD)
- Major military parades are held every 10 years—1959, 1969, 1984, 1999, 2009, 2019
- The Tiananmen flag-raising ceremony time changes daily to match the exact time of sunrise
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Chinese National Day?
Chinese National Day is October 1st. The holiday extends into Golden Week, a seven-day public holiday from October 1-7.
What is Golden Week?
Golden Week is a seven-day national holiday created in 1999 to boost tourism and consumer spending. China has two Golden Weeks: National Day (October 1-7) and Spring Festival.
What does National Day celebrate?
National Day commemorates the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949, when Mao Zedong proclaimed the new republic from Tiananmen Gate in Beijing.
Is Golden Week a good time to visit China?
It can be, but expect extreme crowds and high prices. Tourist attractions, transportation, and hotels are at maximum capacity. Book everything well in advance or consider traveling just before or after the holiday.
What happens during National Day?
Celebrations include flag-raising ceremonies at Tiananmen, patriotic decorations nationwide, fireworks displays, cultural performances, and massive domestic travel. Major military parades occur on significant anniversaries.
Are businesses open during Golden Week?
Many offices and government services close, but tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants remain open (and very busy). Some smaller businesses may close for the entire week.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Chinese National Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
