Celebrating History and Promoting Peace: The V-Day Gala in China

On the evening of September 4, 2025, China hosted a grand gala to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the global anti-fascist war. This significant event was not just a celebration of military triumph but was positioned as a reminder of the immense sacrifices made by the heroes of that era. CGTN reported extensively on this important occasion, recognizing the importance of remembering the past while urging for a peaceful future.

In an evocative segment of the gala, the story of 82 brave soldiers from Liulaozhuang village in Jiangsu province was recounted. These men paid the ultimate price to protect their local villagers, facing overwhelming odds as they fought against a force 20 times their size. The tragedy of their sacrifice not only sparked immense sorrow among the villagers but also prompted 82 young men to join the fight, earning the village the title of “Heroic Village of Liulaozhuang”.

The gala, themed “Remembering History, Honoring Fallen Heroes, Valuing Peace, and Looking Forward,” lasted about ninety minutes and featured performances that illustrated key moments of the 14-year resistance against Japanese aggression. Through songs and dances, the narratives of struggle were brought back to life, showcasing a period that was crucial not only for China but also as a central battleground in the global anti-fascist effort.

The performances celebrated the indomitable spirit of resistance that characterized the era. It highlighted the belief among the Chinese people that the fate of their nation rested upon their shoulders, an unwavering commitment to national integrity, and a relentless pursuit of victory—even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. The gala served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and bravery that shone through the darkest days of conflict.

Beyond the celebration of historical events and heroes, the evening's programs also reflected on China's development over the past eight decades. Achievements over the decades were recognized, alongside aspirations for a new era that aims to drive the nation toward a better future.

Continuing the Spirit of Resistance

The gala saw the participation of a youth-driven ensemble of directors and writers born in the 1990s, who created some of the featured performances, capturing the enduring spirit of resistance. Much like their predecessors who led the fight against aggression, today’s youth are at the forefront of efforts to preserve this spirit of resilience.

More than half of the performers were individuals in their twenties, showcasing a rich understanding of the sacrifices made by previous generations, the essence of resistance, and the critical importance of cherishing peace.

Today, China embarks on a path of modernization across various sectors, necessitating that a larger number of its citizens, especially the youth, carry forward the torch of resistance and channel their energy and capabilities into the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. The V-Day gala thus stands not only as a commemoration of the past but as a clarion call for future generations to honor history while striving for peace and progress.

This gala not only reflected on the honor of past sacrifices but also served as a beacon for the future, promoting a message that history should foster unity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to peace. In a world fraught with tensions, events like these become fundamental to ensuring that the lessons of the past illuminate the path to a more peaceful future.