TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan held its New Year’s Day flag-raising ceremony early Wednesday morning in front of the Presidential Office.

The ceremony began at 5 a.m. and featured performances by the Chuang-Ching High School honor guard, the Armed Forces band and honor guard, and the Black Robe Band, an immigrant workers' ensemble performing original compositions, CNA reported. There was also a Taiwan manufacturing showcase, featuring four themes that celebrated the strength of Taiwanese products.

Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) joined the crowd to sing the national anthem and welcome the new year. Representatives from Taiwan’s manufacturing industry accompanied them to highlight the strength and excellence of the “Made in Taiwan” spirit.

After the national anthem, Lai and Hsiao greeted the crowd before returning to the Presidential Office. 

The Presidential Office will be open to the public where spring couplets and red envelopes will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office also has exhibitions, markets, and other activities.