The Hong Kong government has announced a series of events, as well as free and discounted activities on September 30 and October 1 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic Of China. The highlights will be a 2,099-drone display at West Kowloon Cultural District, a fireworks show over Victoria Harbour, free rides on trams and ferries, and discounted MTR trips and movie tickets.
Drone show and fireworks display
The September 30 drone show will be the largest so far in Hong Kong, and will take place at the West Kowloon Cultural District’s outdoor area. The event, called ‘Celebration of National Day — The Next Generation Chorus Performance’ will have 2,099 drones to represent the year 2024 and the number 75, and a performance of 1,000 student singers. The annual fireworks display will return to Victoria Harbour on October 1 at 9 pm and will feature drones for the first time.
Free tram, ferry, and bus rides
All tram rides and certain ferry journeys in Hong Kong will be free on October 1, and MTR passengers will get 25% off their trips on all lines, as well as on the Light Rail and MTR Buses running in the Northwest New Territories. Children with Octopus cards can ride specific daytime KMB, Long Win Bus and New Lantao Bus routes for free, and avail free rides on Citybus via electronic payment.
Free entry to museums and parks
Visitors will have free access to a range of government-run leisure facilities, and all exhibitions managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department on October 1. On this day, entry to the Wetland Park will also be free. The West Kowloon Cultural District, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Ngong Ping 360, and Peak Tramways will also have different offers for this occasion.
Discounted movie tickets and other offers
All commercial cinemas will give 50% off on movie tickets on October 1, in a move similar to the Cinema Day event that the government has spearheaded for the past two years. The Hong Kong International Airport, shopping malls and department stores across the city, and food kiosks at Temple Street Night Market will roll out offers or reward activities during the National Day period. In addition, at least 10,000 public markets and hawker stalls will offer customers a 25% shopping discount on their purchases.
Header image credits: Hong Kong Tourism Board, Emperorderek via Canva
