China has selected a park designed in the style of ancient Chinese architecture, 50 km from Beijing, as the site for the country's millennium gala activities.

Organizers for the year 2000 events said the park, known as the "first town under the sun," is located in Xianghe County in Hebei Province.

The magnificent buildings there are replicas of typical architectural styles which reflect the achievements of Chinese civilization and culture, according to the organizers.

The January 1 gala in the park will spin on themes of reviewing Chinese civilization, seeking progress, contributing to peace, blessing the future and welcoming the millennium.

To mark the occasion, a century commemorative pole will be erected, a global children's peace village established, and a gallery opened on Chinese history and culture.