A
The Peony Culture Festival of Luoyang
Spring is time for people to go out and see blossoming flowers. Luoyang in Henan, China is famous for peonies, the city’s official flower. The city’s annual Peony Culture Festival begins in early April and lasts till early May. Peonies are in full bloom during the event, which was first held in 1983.
You can go to the Luoyang National Peony Garden. The peonies there are known for their rich colors and long florescence. Don’t miss the 1,600-year-old “Peony King”!
Chinese Language Day
Chinese is one of the six official working languages of the United Nations. The LIN has set different days for these languages to promote their uses. It holds exhibitions, shows and other activities. In 2010, the first Chinese Language Day was held on Nov. 12. But since 2011, it has been held on April 20. The date is close to Grain Rain, one of the 24 solar terms. It means “rain of millet”. People celebrate Grain Rain to remember Cangjie, a mythical character. Many people believe that Cangjie was the first person to write Chinese characters. When he did this, it rained millet and saved people from hunger.
China Astronautics Day
On April 24, 1970, China’s first man-made Earth satellite — Dongfanghong I — went into space. It was a big step for China’s space program. In 2016, the government set April 24 as China Astronautics Day. Many events are held across the country to celebrate this special day. For example, astronauts and scientists will give talks to students. Some cities will hold exhibitions about space development.
Last year, China had big plans for its space program. On December 8, it launched its second lunar rover（月球车）as part of the Chang’e 4 space mission, which landed on the far side of the moon.
21. When was the first Chinese Language Day held by the United Nations?
A. In 1970. B. In 1983. C. In 2010. D. In 2011.
22. What does the introduction to “China Astronautics Day” show?
A. China sent the first man-made earth satellite.
B. China has progressed greatly in astronautics.
C. Chang’e 4 consists of two lunar rovers.
D. Chang’e 4 is another space station built by China.
23. What do the festivals have in common?
A. They all take place in April at present.
B. They are celebrated nationwide.
C. All the participants are Chinese people.
D. Their dates were once changed for some reason.
