The Gold Mountain Bay Area Republic of China National Day Committee will celebrate the 114th anniversary of the Republic of China on October 4 with a national banquet, followed by a flag-raising ceremony on October 5, inviting overseas compatriots and friends to join the festivities.
This year’s National Day theme is “Gratitude to the Nation, Celebrating Double Tenth,” with the slogan “Let the National Day be Seen” as a focal point of promotion. The National Day banquet will take place at 6 p.m. on October 4 at the South Bay Overseas Chinese Cultural Center, while the flag-raising ceremony will be held at 10:10 a.m. on October 5 at the Santa Clara County Government Plaza.
Both the banquet and flag-raising ceremony will feature overseas children singing the national anthem, showcasing patriotism and cultural heritage. The banquet will kick off with a solemn performance by the Dragon Flag Team presenting the “Welcoming of the Flag” ceremony, followed by a singer leading the national anthem before a lively performance setting a dignified and festive atmosphere. Over a thousand snacks and “Taiwan LV” tote bags will be prepared on-site for overseas compatriots, with a specially designed snack box for the flag-raising ceremony containing mini mooncakes symbolizing the double celebration of Double Tenth and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Director Zhuang Yashu stated in her address that under the leadership of the energetic Chair Lin Xiuchun, the organizing committee for this year has planned various innovations, not only continuing the traditions of the flag-raising ceremony and the National Day banquet but also preparing customized memorabilia. She emphasized that the National Day is a shared spiritual moment for the overseas community, watching the national flag rise symbolizes the profound friendship of overseas compatriots towards the Republic of China. She also reminded overseas compatriots to actively apply for the iCompatriot Card after the event.
Compatriot Affairs Commissioner Wei Dezhen, also a former chairperson, particularly emphasized the importance of the flag-raising ceremony to the overseas Chinese community. She mentioned that the raising of the national flag overseas always evokes compatriots’ nostalgia and pride for the motherland, and called for more participation from the younger generation in upholding patriotism alongside the elders. She pointed out that the flag-raising ceremony is not only a display of patriotism but also a great opportunity for compatriots to reconnect and reunite, often encountering long-lost friends during such events.
PR Manager Li Naya shared that this year, special arrangements have been made for children to sing the national anthem. Although the lyrics may be challenging, the children have diligently learned them and will bring touching moments to the ceremony.
Chair Lin Xiuchun stated that this year’s theme, “Gratitude to the Nation, Celebrating Double Tenth,” reminds compatriots not to forget the country’s nurturing and to turn their gratitude towards the homeland into positive energy for the community. She mentioned that the organizing committee chose the “Taiwan LV” tote bag as a commemorative item, symbolizing Taiwan’s creative culture and resilience. She hopes that through these activities, they can not only reflect on the past vibrant celebrations of National Day in Taiwan but also encourage overseas compatriots to join hands with the next generation in flag-raising, collectively continuing the identity and heritage of the Republic of China. ◇