As China’s eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday unfolds, cities across the Chinese mainland are showcasing a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. From lantern-lit streets to tech-driven festivities, the celebrations highlight cultural pride and modern creativity.
Beijing kicked off the holiday with a grand flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square, followed by military parades and cultural performances. Meanwhile, Shanghai transformed its waterfront with drone light shows synchronized to orchestral renditions of patriotic songs, drawing crowds eager to capture the spectacle.
In Chengdu, home to the iconic giant pandas, bakeries and cafes rolled out panda-themed mooncakes and desserts, merging culinary artistry with local wildlife symbolism. The city’s tech parks also hosted interactive robotic exhibits, allowing visitors to engage with AI-driven installations celebrating China’s technological advancements.
Guangzhou revived ancient traditions with floating lantern festivals along the Pearl River, while Xi’an illuminated its ancient city walls with projections depicting China’s historical milestones. Smaller cities like Lijiang emphasized folk dances and handicraft markets, preserving ethnic Uygur and Han cultural practices.
Analysts note the holiday’s economic ripple effect, with domestic tourism revenue projected to surpass 2023 levels. "These celebrations aren’t just cultural milestones—they’re catalysts for local economies," said Li Wei, a Beijing-based economist.
