Jubilation erupted during last night's gala when President Hu Jintao led the country's top leaders from their seats to dance with ethnic minority members in Tian'anmen Square.

It was one of a multitude of joyous moments during the 90-minute show at which onlookers joined 60,000 performers to sing and dance.

Foreign envoys who were invited to share the joy with Chinese people expressed their surprise to China Daily reporters.

Jingshan middle school 10th-grader Zhang Xiaohui was exhilarated to join the pageant. The 15-year-old had been training intensely since August.

"This was one grand party. Everyone felt happy from the bottom of their hearts. Everything fell into place. It was all worth it, and I'm honored to be here."

PLA general staff member and gala performer Cheng Fanlong and his counterpart also had strong emotions about the pageant.

"I feel very honored and excited. I'm very proud of China. It's great to be part of these celebrations."

The gala ended at 9:35 pm to the chorus of The Nation. Performers stayed in the Tian’anmen Square for a long time, taking pictures and cheering. It will surely be an unforgettable and sleepless night for Chinese.