Maritime Day commemorates the voyages of the great Ming Dynasty mariner, Zheng He. It’s a relatively new holiday calling attention to China’s early oceanic conquests.
Mark Your Calendars
Maritime Day 2024 is July 11, 2024. It takes place every year on July 11.
Here’s a simple guide to the holiday that commemorates China’s early maritime exploration.
The Basics
The Chinese government established Maritime Day in 2005 to celebrate Zheng He’s voyages to Southeast Asia and West Africa between 1405 and 1433 (decades before Columbus, the Chinese would note). Today, Maritime Day honors China’s participation in the International Maritime Organization, as well as seafaring’s impact on regional trade and diplomacy.
Maritime Day Traditions
Aside from small ceremonies at Zheng He’s historical ports of call, Maritime Day is not celebrated outside of China. As a relatively new holiday, there are also few customs to follow, past sounding ship whistles at the appointed hour. Maritime Day is celebrated mostly through state functions calling attention to the importance of shipping to China’s economy and the advancement of China’s maritime interests in Southeast Asia.
When is Maritime Day?
Maritime Day takes place every year on July 11. There is no time off granted for Maritime Day.
Maritime Day dates through 2026 are below.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2015 | July 11 |
| 2016 | July 11 |
| 2017 | July 11 |
| 2018 | July 11 |
| 2019 | July 11 |
| 2020 | July 11 |
| 2021 | July 11 |
| 2022 | July 11 |
| 2023 | July 11 |
| 2024 | July 11 |
| 2025 | July 11 |
| 2026 | July 11 |
Your turn! Do you have any other questions about celebrating Maritime Day? I’d love to hear from you in the comments section below!
HT: Photo by gCaptain.
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