At the forefront of this operation are the volunteers, often elderly residents stationed on roadsides – easily identified by their red armbands.
They are being backed up by highly trained professional forces, some of them from the People’s Liberation Army.
A few weeks ago at a barracks on the outskirts of the capital, the army gave journalists a look at some of the troops who will be on duty during the celebrations.
With polished belt buckles and ramrod-straight backs, the soldiers said they would be proud to be part of the event, which will mark 60 years since Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
Soldier Bao Chuanrui, from Anhui province, has been in the army for more than seven years and was hoping to be chosen to take part.
“We were part of a team that reinforced security during the Beijing Olympics. Some of our soldiers are doing a similar job for the 60th anniversary,” said the 26-year-old.
Security forces are already inspecting vehicles coming into the city at nearly 200 road intersections, and checking bags on the city’s subways.
It causes delays, but many residents have resigned themselves to these difficulties.
“We ought to support the 60th anniversary celebrations and overcome the inconveniences,” said a woman surnamed Gao, as she hurried home early on a parade practice day last week.
During the National Day celebrations, China will highlight the country’s stability, harmony and unity – and its leaders are determined to ensure nothing happens to contradict that message.