Hong Kong is preparing to commemorate its 26th anniversary of the handover to Chinese rule with a variety of special offers and complimentary activities for its residents. The city-wide celebration, set for 1 July, aims to foster a jubilant atmosphere while underscoring the city’s ongoing growth and development. This report is based on information from Marketing Interactive.
To mark the occasion, John Lee, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, has announced that the public will be granted free rides on trams and the iconic Star Ferry. These services will operate around the harbour and between Central and Tai O on Lantau Island. Additionally, specific ferry routes, such as Central-Hung Hom and North Point-Kwun Tong, will also be complimentary for the day.
Hong Kong’s residents will have further opportunities to engage with the city’s rich cultural and natural offerings, all free of charge. For instance, the Hong Kong Wetland Park will be open for free to the public. Additionally, several museums including the Science Museum, Space Museum, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, M+ Museum, and Palace Museum, will provide free admission to their permanent exhibitions. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department will also waive fees for most of its indoor and outdoor leisure facilities, including swimming pools.
The city’s catering industry is set to join in the celebrations as well, with over 1,000 restaurants offering a 71% discount on designated dishes, symbolising the date of the handover, 1 July.
Reflecting on the city’s festive atmosphere, Lee stated, “The overall social atmosphere in Hong Kong is happier, livelier, and with more confidence and hope now. The government will continue to achieve economic growth, development, and competitiveness of the city.”
However, Lee also issued a stern warning against anyone intending to disrupt the handover celebrations. He stressed that the authorities would not tolerate unlawful acts, saying, “If anyone takes advantage of this opportunity to hijack, or create a bad atmosphere or launch destructive activities, we will definitely pursue the legal responsibility, and will not allow similar actions to hijack this day that is worth celebrating.”
This news is based on a report from Marketing Interactive.
