An award ceremony paying tribute to the people who contribute to the economic and social development of Heilongjiang was held in Harbin, capital city of Heilongjiang province, on April 24.

It was one of a number of activities organized by Heilongjiang Provincial Federation of Trade Unions to mark International Workers’ Day, which falls on May 1.

Heilongjiang, part of the old Northeast China industrial base, is experiencing a period of industrial upgrading and structural adjustment. People from all walks of life have contributed to the achievements the province has made over the past few years.

This year, a total of 150 people were granted the title “Heilongjiang Model Worker”, with more than 40 percent of the prize winners being front-line industrial workers and 5 percent being scientific researchers.

Meanwhile, people having made contributions to assisting Xinjiang and Tibet, as well as retired soldiers, were also honored with prizes.

A grand culture performance was also staged in Daqing, China's biggest petroleum and petrochemical base, to mark the festival. It was attended by more than 1,500 front-line workers and model worker representatives.

A performance is staged in Daqing, Heilongjiang on April 24 to mark International Workers’ Day. [Photo/chinanews.com]

Flags proudly fly high during the cultural performance is staged in Daqing, Heilongjiang on April 24 to mark International Workers’ Day. [Photo/chinanews.com]

A singer hits the high notes at an activity held in Daqing on April 24 to mark International Workers’ Day. [Photo/chinanews.com]