Thousands of people queued up at the Qingdao Port on Saturday, eastern China's Shandong Province, to participate in this year's naval open day events, as dozens of naval ports and barracks in China open to the public over the weekend to mark the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on April 23.

In the Qingdao Port, there are four battleships berthed for display. They are the guided-missile destroyer Kaifeng, the guided-missile frigate Daqing, the comprehensive supply ship Kekexilihu and the comprehensive submarine rescue ship Hongzehu. They are all battleships in active service.

During the event, the public can board ships, interact with naval personnel and participate in immersive activities that feature aspects of maritime culture such as knots, signal lights and flag codes.

"Honestly, I feel really excited because I am a veteran, and I am so proud of my country," a visitor from the neighboring Jiangsu Province shared his feeling.

"I came here with my child to come see the naval vessels of our country. And I see a mighty and a civilized force," another visitor said.

"My knowledge of naval ships comes from TV series related to the Navy, like the military hospital ship named Peace Ark," said a girl accompanying her family. "Today, I came here to see and feel the vessels myself. And I like them very much."

The open day events will last for three days at the Qingdao Port. Other activities include light shows and military music performances, as well as a ceremony paying tribute to the country's naval heroes.