National China Day

A joyful scene of traditional Chinese lanterns hanging in the air, accompanied by a vibrant dragon dance and a sea of red attire. Style elements could include elegant qipaos and cultural settings.. — National china day illustration

If you've ever wondered why your social media timelines suddenly fill with lanterns, dragon dances, and an explosion of red at a seemingly random point of the year, hold on to your chopsticks! We're going to unravel the mystery of National China Day. A day that sees a whopping 8368 mentions online, with last year seeing a peak on the 2nd of October.

When is China Day?

It's national china day on the 2nd October.

Delving into the Dragon's Den

National China Day isn't about a national obsession with porcelain, contrary to common misconceptions. It actually celebrates the founding of the People's Republic of China. Officially known in China as 'National Day', it began its life on October 1st, 1949 - the day the People's Republic was established. Over the years, it has found a cosy home in the heart of the global community, thus the advent of our National China Day.

The Worldwide Wonton

Over time, this Eastern festivity has spilled its tea (quite literally) into the West. Manifesting in celebrations, cultural events, and the worldwide sharing of delicious Chinese cuisine, which who are we kidding, we don't need an excuse to indulge in.

A Red-letter day indeed!

During National China Day, swathes of red (China's signature colour symbolising luck and prosperity) flood the internet in the shape of lanterns, dragon images, flags, and festive well-wishes. Last year, on 2nd October 2020, the wave of National China Day mentions reached its peak, proving that this occasion stirs up a flurry of excitement every year. And why wouldn't it? With a history so rich and a culture so inviting, it's as intoxicating as a hot bowl of spicy Szechuan soup!

History behind the term 'China'

1300 BCE

The Birth of Ceramics

The history of the term 'china' can be traced back to the development of ceramics in ancient China around 1300 BCE. The Chinese were the pioneers in producing fine pottery using techniques such as throwing, glazing, and firing. Their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs quickly gained recognition and appreciation around the world.

8th Century CE

Arab Traders and Porcelain

During the 8th century CE, Arab traders began to import porcelain from China to the Middle East. The porcelain was highly prized for its translucency, durability, and beautiful aesthetics. As the trade routes expanded, the term 'china' started to be associated with these fine ceramics, referring to their country of origin.

16th Century CE

European Fascination with Chinese Porcelain

In the 16th century CE, European merchants and explorers, such as Marco Polo, encountered Chinese porcelain for the first time. Its exceptional quality and rarity fascinated the Europeans, who often referred to it as 'china' due to its origin in the country. This marked the beginning of Europe's obsession with Chinese porcelain.

18th Century CE

Porcelain Production in Europe

In the 18th century CE, European countries, including England, Germany, and France, began their own porcelain production. They aimed to replicate the fine quality and craftsmanship of Chinese porcelain. Although European porcelain gained popularity, the term 'china' continued to be used to differentiate between the Chinese ceramics and the European imitations.

20th Century CE

China as a Nation

In the 20th century CE, with the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912 and later the People's Republic of China in 1949, the term 'china' gained a new meaning. It started to refer to the country itself rather than solely its ceramic production. China became recognized as a major player in the global political, economic, and cultural landscapes.

Did you know?

Did you know that the National Day in China is the start of one of the two 'Golden Weeks' in the Chinese calendar? It's a week long holiday that sees mass domestic travel and various big scale events. All in celebration of the nation.