China’s one-child policy makes multiple children an impossibility for urban families. However, an exception is made for twins. Twins are considered a blessing for reasons that are deeply-rooted in Chinese culture. Multiple births are a sign of good fortune, and it is hoped that newlyweds will have “double happiness.” On October 2-3, Beijing will celebrate all it means to be a twin at Honglingjin Park (corner of East Fourth Ring Road and Chaoyang Beilu).
The Twins’ Culture Festival is a sight to behold, with bright decorations and buzzing with lookalike twins in similar dress. Last year, at least 500 pairs of twins were in attendance for the second day of the event, which featured a parade, music, and dance performances.
There is no denying that there is something about twins that we find captivating. Beijing is just one of many places to celebrate these special siblings. Similar events are held in the US, Poland, the Philippines, Australia, and a dozen other countries. Scientists have even designated an entire field of research, “Twin Studies,” to understanding twins.
For whatever reason, twins are one of the most mind boggling and wonderful phenomena in existence, and they certainly call for a good celebration!
