Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day

History of Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day

Taiwan National Day commemorates the beginning of the Wuchang Uprising in China on October 10, 1911. The revolution brought an end to the Ching (Qing) Dynasty, which the Manchus had created in 1644. The insurrection resulted in the establishment of the Republic of China on January 1, 1912. The authority and control of the Ching court had declined since the early 19th century, and by the early 20th century, China had become vulnerable to Japanese and Western influences. Dissatisfaction with the circumstances sparked a nationalist rebellion led by Sun Yatsen.

The insurrection at Wuchang was successful and sparked uprisings in other towns across China. Sun Yatsen was named interim President of the fledgling republic after the inevitable collapse of the Manchus. Following the Chinese Civil War, the Republic of China (R.O.C.) lost control of mainland China to the Communists and was forced to evacuate to Taiwan in 1949.

In Taiwan, the formal celebration begins with hoisting the Republic of China flag in front of the Presidential Office Building, followed by a public singing of the R.O.C. National Anthem. Festivities in front of the Presidential Office Building follow, including a military parade. Many components of traditional Chinese and Taiwanese cultures, such as the lion dance and drum teams add to the festivities. More recently, members of the fire and police services also joined in the parade. Later in the day, the President of the Republic of China addresses the nation, and fireworks displays are held around the island’s major cities. Outside Taiwan, the National Day is also celebrated by many Overseas Chinese communities.

Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day timeline

1895

Under the Japanese

Taiwan is ruled by Japan during the founding of the Republic of China.

1911

The Uprising

The Wuchang Uprising, an armed insurrection against the Qing empire, occurs at Wuchang (now Wuchang District of Wuhan), with Hubei, China, kicking off the Xinhai Revolution by successfully ousting China's final imperial dynasty.

1945

Under the Control of the R.O.C.

Taiwan is put under the administration of the R.O.C. following the surrender of the Empire of Japan in World War II.

1949

First National Day Military Parade

The military parade on October 10 is Taiwan's first public military parade, with Chen Cheng acting as Grand Review Officer.

Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day FAQs

When is Taiwan National Day?

Taiwan National Day, or Double Ten Day, falls on Saturday, October 10, 2026. It’s a day of grand celebrations and national pride across the island.

How is Double Ten Day celebrated in Taiwan?

In 2026, celebrations typically include a large public ceremony in front of the Presidential Office Building in Taipei, featuring military parades, cultural performances, and speeches. Fireworks displays are also a highlight, often held over the Tamsui River or at other scenic locations.

What is the significance of 'Double Ten'?

The ‘Double Ten’ refers to the tenth day of the tenth month (October 10). This date commemorates the Wuchang Uprising of 1911, which marked the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution that ultimately led to the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China.

Is Taiwan National Day observed outside of Taiwan?

Yes, in 2026, Taiwan National Day is also celebrated by overseas Taiwanese communities and diplomatic missions around the world. These celebrations often include flag-raising ceremonies, banquets, and cultural events to foster a sense of national identity and connection.

How to Observe Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day

Participate in the parade

A massive celebratory procession takes place in front of the presidential palace, and thousands of people rush to the capital to see it. Foreign ambassadors and dignitaries gather beside the president on a viewing platform while parade participants pass by and frequently stop to perform.

Enjoy the fireworks

The fireworks displays on Double Ten Day eclipse the Taipei 101 New Year's festivities in terms of sheer magnitude and loudness. They are spectacular, and each year they are held in a new location throughout the country.

Travel to Taiwan

People love to get away for a few days over the vacation season, whether it's to Sun Moon Lake, one of the many beaches, or one of Taiwan's lovely national parks. The hotels are full, and all of the most famous tourist attractions are filled with people as the festive spirit sweeps the region.

5 Facts About Taiwan You Need To Know

Only 2.3% of Taiwanese people are native

During the Qing Dynasty, natives were forced out, in the same way, Europeans pushed away native Americans, Canadians, Australians, and New Zealanders.

Taiwan is the size of Belgium

Even though Taiwan is the same size as Belgium, it’s a heavily populated country with a population of 23 million people whereas Belgium has a population of only 11 million people.

First Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage

Taiwan is modern and forward-thinking in comparison to its neighboring nations; in 2019 Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage.

Stinky tofu

Fermented tofu as the national dish smells exactly how it sounds.

Taipei 101 skyscraper was the highest building

This lasted until 2007 until the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was completed.

Why Taiwan: National Day / Double Ten day is Important

A cultural exposition

Double Ten Day celebrates Taiwan's rich cultural legacy. Great cuisine, live music, dancing, entertainment, art, and other activities. What's not to love about this?

A day to experiment with new things

It is the perfect day to explore something new, such as Taiwanese food, music, or history. Make it a celebration by inviting your family and friends.

Understanding history and colonization

National Day connotes liberty. It is critical to learn from history so that imperial takeovers and colonial regulations do not occur again and national sovereignty is protected.