The mainland is just four days away from its most spectacular, most hi-tech - and probably most expensive - one-day party to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the People's Republic.
If last year's Beijing Olympics was China's coming out party and showcased its best to the rest of the world, Thursday's event is more domestic and political, aiming to show the Chinese people the great achievements of the past six decades under the rule of the Communist Party.
For those who believe in the ancient calendar counting 'heavenly stems' and 'earthly branches', a full lifespan takes 60 years. The 60th year is called jiazi, which means the end of a cycle and beginning of a new one, the perfect time for the mainland leadership to seek a new mandate and review its legitimacy.
The mainland has much to show off and celebrate. Among many achievements, the economy is expected to overtake that of Japan as the world's second largest by the end of this year, and it is already the world's largest trading power.
The Chinese are richer, stronger, and more confident, and on Thursday are expected to put these elements on full display, according to state media saturated over the last two weeks with details of the elaborate preparations.
The party is scheduled to start at 10am, first with the military parade and then with the parade by civilians. This is to be followed by a spectacular show of fireworks, lights and performances in the evening.