Taipei, Oct. 6 (CNA) Celebrations marking National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan's official name) began on Saturday with a star-studded event at the Taipei Dome, drawing an audience of 20,000.

The event, which featured performances by award-winning singers and Paris Olympic medalists, also showcased a variety of acts, including school choirs, the Ministry of National Defense-affiliated symphony orchestra and cheerleading squads.

Also wishing the nation a happy birthday at the event were political figures including President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安).

The main celebration will take place on Oct. 10 with an official ceremony in front of the Presidential Office. President Lai will deliver his first National Day address and the day will culminate in a fireworks display in Yunlin County that evening.