Photographer Captures Dazzling Oct 1 Fireworks Display

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Beijing residents with a clear view of the Forbidden City were treated to a grand and unannounced firework show last night. The display, which began at around midnight Sunday, was a practice run of the firework show that will usher in the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China on Oct 1.

Despite the somewhat heavy smog, photographer Gao Qinghe was able to capture the show from an apartment near Shouti Nanlu in Haidian District, with round upon round of multicolored lights illuminating the Beijing sky and the buildings beneath. See some of the highlights of the show below.

Given China's long and storied relationship with fireworks – as both the inventor and largest producer of fireworks in the world – pyrotechnics often play an important role in celebrations. As well as adding to the overall spectacle of the parade, the fireworks on Oct 1 will also be used as a means to ward off any evil spirits that may threaten the auspicious festivities.

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If you find a high enough vantage point, it's quite likely that you'll be able to watch the firework display come Oct 1. However, we don't recommend trying to get too close. If this year's celebrations are anything like those for the 65th anniversary of the end of the Sino-Japanese War, residents of compounds that overlook Chang'an Jie will be warned to stay away from their windows and keep their curtains closed, so as not to distract or receive unwanted attention from security personnel dotted throughout the city. Happy days.

Photos: Gao Qinghe

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