Celebrating 75 Years of the People’s Republic of China

On October 1st, Hong Kong came alive with a spirit of joy and patriotism as it celebrated the National Day alongside the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The festivities kicked off with a formal flag-raising ceremony at the iconic Golden Bauhinia Square, where the sounds of the national anthem filled the air. HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee addressed attendees, emphasizing that “the development of Hong Kong cannot be separated from that of the country, and the country will always be the strongest backing for Hong Kong.”

Celebrating national pride at Golden Bauhinia Square

In a display of unity, local residents across various districts participated in raising the national flag and singing the anthem, creating a sea of red throughout the city. A standout moment occurred at the Eastern District Cultural Square, where over 300 citizens came together to form the number “75” while proudly holding the national flag.

A Festive Atmosphere Across the City

The National Day celebrations did not stop at the flag-raising ceremony—over 400 events were organized in Hong Kong, ensuring that the joy of the day was palpable. Approximately 3,600 restaurants, some cinemas, and various public transportation services provided discounts to both residents and tourists. Moreover, many museums and parks opened their doors free of charge, allowing the public to engage with exhibitions celebrating China’s rich history.

Among the highlights were the special exhibitions, including “The Origins of Chinese Civilization” at the Hong Kong Palace Museum, an astronomy film titled “China the Mission to the Moon” at the Hong Kong Space Museum, and the showcase titled “Glorious Voyage: Splendid Achievements of the People’s Republic of China in Its 75 Years” at the Hong Kong Museum of History. These displays offered a captivating reflection on the past and present of the nation.

A Technological Showcase

The festivities also highlighted China’s advancements in technology. An event hosted at the West Kowloon Cultural District emphasized cutting-edge innovations, featuring exhibits on new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The enthusiasm of Hong Kong’s youth for technological innovation was evident, with one middle school student enthusiastically discussing the high-tech displays with visitors. “This National Day is very meaningful,” he remarked, illustrating the intersection of tradition and modernity.

Spotlighting advancements in technology and youth innovation

A Show to Remember

As night fell, the grand fireworks display marked the pinnacle of the day’s festivities. Spectators, both local and tourists, flocked to the shores of Victoria Harbor, creating a vibrant atmosphere that drew an estimated 330,000 viewers. Enthusiastic attendees arrived as early as noon to secure the best spots for viewing the spectacular show.

At precisely 9:05 p.m., the sky erupted in a kaleidoscope of colors, featuring red stars and purple five-petal flowers that symbolized a bright future for both the motherland and the HKSAR. Fireworks shaped like green bamboo leaves paid tribute to the recent arrival of giant pandas gifted by the central government, captivating the crowd. A resident exclaimed, “I hope the giant pandas can lead nice and happy lives in Hong Kong!” as she captured a moment with a stuffed panda backdrop amidst the dazzling display.

The 23-minute exhibition culminated in an impressive finale, drawing cheers and applause from the audience as both national flags and HKSAR flags waved throughout the crowd. One family member celebrating his birthday on the National Day remarked, “I wish the motherland prosperity and strength, and the HKSAR never-ending drive for development.”

The stunning fireworks display lighting up the night sky

Looking Ahead: A National Celebratory Spirit

The fireworks show not only signified the climactic end of the day’s celebrations but also ushered in a period of heightened tourism for the city during the seven-day holiday, with forecasts suggesting an influx of around 1.2 million tourist trips from the Chinese mainland. As Hong Kong embraces its unique identity within the framework of the greater nation, such events highlight the city’s cultural richness and its connectedness to the broader national narrative.

With a robust calendar of events, a steadfast spirit of patriotism, and the promise of continued development, Hong Kong showcases an unwavering commitment to celebrating its heritage while looking forward to the future with optimism.