http://en.beijing2008.cn
What is so significant for China as far as the date is concerned is the figure 888. As believers of lucky charms, most Chinese people are really convinced the luck associated with it. The idea is of Cantonese origin. The Cantonese counterpart of eight sounds as 'Fa', meaning to have great fortune in the near future. In mathematics the figure 8 is similar to the symbol of infinity, while in other cultures 8 was used to represent universality and even made to represent the cosmic Christ.We do not say that these are mere superstitions, but the effects of this beliefs are also associated with faith. Believing on one thing can make things work as one desires. However, the negative side of it would lead to obsession and is not healthy.
As long as these convictions never jeopardize the values man can freely live into it. But if these would cause something negative, we should control or even abandon the ideas. So far the figure 8 worked as an inspiration to be more productive as good luck seems achievable.
(Photo Source: http://img00.beijing2008.cn/20080809/Img214518812.jpg)