2025 marks the 80^th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression And the World Anti-fascist War, as well as the 75^th anniversary of the liberation of Hainan. In recent days, events have been held across China's southernmost province commemorating its liberation 75 years ago.

On April 30, a themed event was held in Lingao County on the northwest coast of Hainan Island. It was here in April 1950 where the PLA’s Fourth Field Army, the core force in the battle for liberation, landed. Following the national anthem, the attendees stood in silent tribute and presented flower baskets to the soldiers that fell during the battle. Descendants of these soldiers and those of the Qiongya Revolutionary Base, a CPC-led local guerrilla which assisted and fought with the core landing force, as well as representatives of students and constructors of the Hainan Free Trade Port in different fields were invited to make speeches. Nearly 600 people attended the event, including key figures from the government, military, social societies, research institutions, and other bodies in Hainan.

A themed gala was held in Danzhou, a city also located in the west of Hainan, on the same day. Attendees were treated to dramatic and dance performances that depicted the full history of the island’s liberation, with 120 descandants of the PLA’s Fourth Field Army appearing on stage. The performances left many in the audience visibly moved as they were reminded of the sacrifices of their ancestors.

By contrast, the second half of the Gala looked to the future, presenting the full-swing development of the Hainan Free Trade Port through vivid song and dance.

“We want to bring history to life,” A member of the directing team said that she hoped that the gala would help people better understand Hainan's modern history, from liberation in the mid-twentieth century to the leapfrog development that the island province has witnessed in recent years.

The gala also featured traditional local Hainan culture, including songs composedand sung by musicians from Hainan, while elements of the local Li ethnic group, such as Li brocade and boat-shaped houses, were incorporated in the scenic design and some dance performances.