PHOTO ESSAY/National Day celebrations kick off in front of Presidential Office

Bringing along young percussionists, the Taiwan Taiko Association opened Taiwan's National Day celebrations with a 100 drummer performance in front of the Presidential Office.

As per tradition, an Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet flew over the Presidential Office as a part of the National Day's celebratory performace.

The Honor Guards of the Republic of China and its marching band was also a spotlight at the National Day celebrations as they herald in a military parade in front of the Presidential Office.

Students of Taichung's Shin Min High School then followed with a colorful performance using floral imageries to emphasize Taiwan's name of "Formosa." 

National Day address by the President

As the main event of the celebrations, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) delivered a National Day address that outlined his vision and blueprint for national governance as Taiwan faces domestic and international challenges.

In the speech, Lai focused on the theme "A New Taiwan Rises in a Time of Change," which encompassed democracy, innovation and economic development, social care capacity, diplomacy, defense resilience, and civic virtue.

Celebrations continue

Following the President's speech, a CH-47SD Chinook flew the nation's flag across the sky, chaperoned by two UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.

Festivities began on Tuesday with the Presidential Office Light Show, which will run through Friday night.

Since Thursday evening, Taiwan’s landmark Taipei 101 skyscraper has also been setting off fireworks to mark the occasion -- an event that will likewise conclude Friday night.