Thousands gathered in the predawn chill of Tiananmen Square to witness Beijing’s first flag-raising ceremony of 2026, many having arrived the night before to secure a view of the annual event.
As the square fell silent, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Guard of Honor marched into position with measured precision. The national anthem played as the red flag with five gold stars rose steadily, illuminated by the first golden light of the new year.
Though the ceremony lasted only a few minutes, the crowd lingered afterward, with faces of all ages reflecting quiet reverence and hope.
"[Watching this flag-raising ceremony on January 1] feels like a fresh start, a new hope for myself. I deliberately wore this coat with the national flag design today. It's a way to say: when you have faith in your heart, the color that defines you must be Chinese red," said a spectator.
Many offered their best wishes for the country's prosperity, viewing the moment as a collective embrace of new beginnings.
"Watching the national flag being raised is something every Chinese person has looked forward to since childhood. At this very moment, I'm filled with pride. I hope our country grows stronger and more prosperous," said a spectator.
"Anyone who shows up for the first flag-raising ceremony of the new year must be someone who loves life, loves Beijing, and loves our country. That's exactly why we're all gathered here today," said another spectator.
From the square's solemn atmosphere to every heart's quiet resolve, this New Year's flag raising was a reminder that each personal journey is woven into the nation's ongoing story.
Proud citizens greet new year gather at China's national flag-raising ceremony
People from all walks of life across China expressed renewed commitment to their work and the nation following President Xi Jinping's 2026 New Year message, describing it as both inspiring and reassuring.
In the fields of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced technologies, Xi's remarks sparked a surge of confidence and ambition among innovators working at the frontlines of China's high-tech industries.
"In his New Year message, President Xi mentioned humanoid robots entering a 'Kung Fu mode'. As someone in the embodied robotics industry, I felt truly inspired. Here in Suzhou's Wuzhong District, we've already attracted over a thousand robotics and AI-related enterprises, forming a complete industrial chain from core components to end-use applications. We're proud of what we've built. In the new year, I'll keep up the momentum and help more robotics companies showcase their technical strength and accelerate development," said Lu Yi, deputy head of the preparatory team, Suzhou Intelligent Robotics Technology Development Co., Ltd in east China's Jiangsu Province.
"The year 2026 marks the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). We will continue to take root in this hub of innovation in Jingxi Zhigu, overcoming challenges in core algorithm systems and working to convert technological achievements into real industrial value," said Hu Xinyu, a technician at Jingxi Zhigu Technology Co., Ltd in Beijing. "As a worker in offshore wind power technology, I feel a deep connection with the sea. In 2026, we'll focus on key offshore wind technologies to better harness green energy for national development and to benefit tens of thousands of households," said Chen Dawei, a resident of Fuzhou City in east China's Fujian Province.
Xi's emphasis on people-centered development struck a powerful chord with frontline and cultural workers in various regions, who see their daily efforts reflected in the nation's broader journey.
"General Secretary Xi's New Year message was full of encouragement for the people and deeply rooted in their concerns. As a grassroots worker on Mount Tai scenic area, I feel that this new journey of Chinese modernization is just like our daily work, which often requires us to scale cliffs and steep slopes. Only through persistence and determination can we reach and truly appreciate the breathtaking scenery at the summit," said Yang Tongfei, a staff member at Hongmen Management Office, Mount Tai Scenic Area Committee in east China's Shandong Province. "As a guide in the ancient town, I will always keep the general secretary's guidance in mind. I will continuously learn new knowledge, so that when tourists arrive in Lijiang ancient town, they can understand the charm of our world cultural heritage through my voice and feel how the big family of the Chinese nation is tightly united like seeds of a pomegranate," said He Zhiyun, a tour guide in Lijiang ancient town, southwest China's Yunnan Province.
Ordinary citizens also voiced heartfelt appreciation for the message's focus on daily life and well-being, drawing strength from the nation's care for the essentials of everyday living.
"When every small family runs warmly, the big Chinese family thrives. We can truly feel the Party and the government's deep concern for the everyday needs of the people, so warm, and so powerful. This makes me more firmly resolved to start again in the coming year, and more committed to staying rooted at the grassroots and serving the people," said Liu Shaojie, a resident of Lhasa in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.
"I'm filled with confidence going into the new year. Up next, I plan to build a smart orchard with a better use of modern agricultural technology, and make life better and happier," said Huang Hong, a villager in Yanyang Town, south China's Guangdong Province.
"Our small, everyday lives are woven into the grand picture of national development. In 2025, I truly experienced happiness and fulfillment here in Xinjiang. In 2026, I look forward to witnessing even more delightful changes together with the country," said Ayidana, a resident of Urumqi, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
Xi's New Year message inspires national optimism
