Thousands braved the winter chill overnight to witness Beijing's first sunrise of 2026 accompanied by the iconic flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square. As digital clocks tick toward midnight, the historic site transforms into a sea of anticipation with visitors from across China and beyond.
New Year, New Dawn
The precision-timed event – where the national flag meets the first golden rays of 2026 – symbolizes fresh beginnings for many. "It's like watching the whole country wake up together," shared one Shanghai student who queued since 10 PM.
Cultural Phenomenon
While the ceremony itself lasts minutes, the overnight experience has become Gen Z's unexpected New Year's Eve tradition. Social media shows young attendees sharing thermoses of tea while live-streaming the wait to global followers.
