Taiwan’s Double Ten Day (officially National Day of the Republic of China 國慶日) is an important holiday in Taiwan when Taiwanese people celebrate the founding of the Republic of China, the current government of Taiwan, and the first republic established in East Asia. In this blog, we will explain the history of the holiday, its significance, and how it is celebrated now in modern Taiwan.
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When is Double Ten Day in Taiwan?
October 10th every year.
If the national holiday falls on a weekend, it is celebrated either on the preceding Friday or the following Monday to make an extended holiday weekend.
The Origins and Significance of Double Ten Day:
The National Day of the Republic of China (also called ROC National Day, Taiwan National Day, or Taiwan/ROC’s birthday) commemorates the Wuchang Uprising on October 10, 1911, which marked the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution, leading to the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the ROC as the first widely recognized republic in East Asia. Celebrations have been held annually in Taiwan since 1949, featuring flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and fireworks. Because of this, some people think it is ironic that it is sometimes called “Taiwan National Day” since Taiwan was a colony of Japan in 1911. For more information about Taiwan’s political history, check out our Taiwan politics guide here.
It is important to note that October 10th is also celebrated in the People’s Republic of China to commemorate the Xinhai Revolution and the Wuchang Uprising.
Controversy
Many people do not like Double Ten Day because it celebrates a government that did not rule Taiwan at the time of its founding. Even though sometimes the holiday is called “Taiwan National Day” or “Taiwan’s Birthday,” some people take offence at this because the roots of the holiday are not related to Taiwan.
What do people do on Double Ten Day in Taiwan?
National Day Parade at the Presidential Palace
Usually, on the morning of Double Ten Day, the president of Taiwan gives a speech at the presidential office building in Taipei. During and after the speech, there are also parades and performances. The Republic of China Armed Forces will put on a military parade. The Taiwan Air Force will also fly around Taipei, putting on an air show. The police forces have also joined the parade in recent years. At night, sometimes there is a light show at the presidential office building like the one shown above.
Watch Fireworks
The central government organizes a National Day Fireworks Display every year, changing the event location to a different city or county every year. Various local governments may also hold their own fireworks displays.
Other Festivals and Activities
Other festivals and activities include flag displays (especially on bridges), as well as at the Longgang Flag House (國旗屋米干店, you can read more about it in Josh Ellis’ blog here). There are many other festivals and activities that are not covered in this blog.
Traveling, shopping, Visiting Family, etc.
Double Ten Day is after all a national holiday so workers have an extended weekend off to travel, including international travel, as well as shop, visit family, eat out at restaurants, see movies, etc.
My Experience as a Foreigner During Double Ten Day in Taiwan:
Double Ten Day in Taiwan is always good because we get the day off from work and school. In recent years, we have made an annual trip to Xiaoliuqiu on this day.
If I have time, I will also try to watch the National Day Parade and the president’s speech on TV.
It is also cool to see the Republic of Taiwan Air Force air show around Taipei. The Air Force also has other air shows in other cities around Taiwan. I recall seeing them perform in Kaohsiung.
Other than that, it is similar to any other national holiday for me.
Tips For Travelling During the National Day Holiday in Taiwan:
- The airports can be packed, and flights will usually be more expensive.
- The roads will be jammed going south on the first day and jammed going north on the last day.
- It may be hard to book train tickets during the holiday.
- Hotels will be more expensive than normal. Every day will be like a Saturday night price.
- Camping spots should stay the same price.
- Tourist spots may be packed with people.
- Some roads may be closed to vehicles, especially in Taipei and near fireworks displays.
Thanks for reading! For more festivals and activities in Taiwan, check out our full Taiwan Festival Guide here.
Check out our full guide to Taiwan here.
