TAIPEI (TVBS News) — International visitors joined Taiwanese citizens Friday (Oct. 10) for the island's National Day celebrations, transforming central Taipei into a vibrant display of democratic solidarity. The annual parade at the Presidential Office (總統府) drew participants from across the globe, reflecting Taiwan's growing international profile amid regional tensions. Local organizers distributed hundreds of flag-themed accessories to commemorate the democratic milestone.
Yu (游), a local participant, accompanied her teacher in distributing 500 "patriotic wigs and shirts" bearing Taiwan's flag colors. The teacher initiated this grassroots tradition eight years ago, aiming to showcase Taiwan's national symbol to international audiences during the annual celebration. The colorful accessories became a striking visual element throughout the parade route.
Chiu (邱) traveled from the southern city of Tainan with photography equipment to document the capital's festivities. Another participant, Yu (余), brought her family specifically to educate her children about democratic values and Taiwan's ongoing struggle for international recognition. The intergenerational attendance reflected the celebration's deeper significance beyond ceremonial pageantry.
Children also participated enthusiastically in the democratic celebration. Li (李), attending with his parents, explained that his family typically watched the National Day parade on television but seized the opportunity to experience it firsthand while visiting relatives in Taipei. The young participant's presence illustrated how Taiwan's democratic traditions engage multiple generations.
Visitors from multiple continents joined the festivities, including George from Gambia and Lewis, a Thai resident of two years who noted his homeland lacks a comparable national celebration. German tourists Tilman and Ieva, despite arriving only days earlier during their Southeast Asian journey, prioritized participating in Taiwan's democratic milestone. The diverse international presence underscored Taiwan's appeal as a beacon of democratic values in the region.
As Taiwan marked another year of democratic governance and economic development, participants expressed hopes for the island's continued prosperity and international recognition. The celebration concluded with widespread optimism about Taiwan's future trajectory amid evolving regional dynamics. ◼
