How to Celebrate Youth Day

Youth Day commemorates the student protests that catalyzed the May Fourth Movement in 1919. It’s an opportunity to recognize the anti-imperialist demonstrations that propelled the country into its modern, revolutionary era.

Mark Your Calendars
Youth Day 2024 is May 4, 2024. It takes place every year on May 4.

Here’s a simple guide to a holiday that’s a powerful symbol of China’s growing sense of nationalism.

The Basics

The Chinese government established Youth Day in 1949 to memorialize the student protests against the government’s weak response to the Treaty of Versailles. The anti-imperialist demonstrations were heralded for harnessing China’s nationalist sentiment and propelling the country into its modern, revolutionary era.

Youth Day Traditions

There’s no specific recognition of Youth Day outside of China. While the holiday commemorates public protest, it’s notable that today’s celebrations include few student-led demonstrations. What remains is a notion of populist nationalism challenged by activists who cite the dangers of public dissent and the ongoing suppression of free speech in China. Indeed, the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and 2014 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong are not part of the Youth Day narrative.

When is Youth Day?

Youth Day takes place every year on May 4. Youths older than 14 receive a half day off for Youth Day.

Youth Day dates through 2026 are below.

Your turn! Do you have any other questions about celebrating Youth Day? I’d love to hear from you in the comments section below!

HT: Photo by Zimbio.