Hong Kong’s national day falling on the 1st of October marking the founding of the People’s Republic of China has been celebrated since 1997 when the territory became a part of mainland China.
Although people of Hong Kong do not have three days of holidays following National Day as in mainland China, it is still much looked forward to and hotels and public transport are usually packed and operating at capacity, moving and accommodating a glut of holidaymakers. The day commences with the flag raising ceremony at Bauhinia Square at 7.45 am attended by the Chief Executive of the territory and several thousand invitees and members of the public. The national anthem is played by the police band and there is a short marching band performance and a helicopter fly past. Throughout the day marching bands and drill teams, that are a quintessential part of national day ceremonies, perform throughout the territory. Hong Kong’s coastal defence force, sea cadet corps, air cadet corps, adventure corps, schools and institutions take part in the main ceremony. Some areas have their own flag raising ceremony followed by lion dance competitions, street theatre and variety shows.
The highlight of the day is the fireworks display over Victoria Harbour which is the most visible part of the celebration. Thousands gather at the waterfront and anywhere with a view of the sky over the harbour, to capture this 20 minute impressive display. The fireworks are let off from barges moored at the centre of the harbour. The display is a themed event with different scenes that illustrate the chosen theme. Synchronised music is piped from the speakers positioned along the harbour. Whatever the theme there is always short and long bursts of colour with sparkling bits falling into the water that take the breath away every time. Waterfront cafes and bars make full use of the fact that they have some of the best views. Five or even six course gourmet menus that include champagne, caviar, freshly shucked oysters among other tit bits, dinner buffets and live performances are dished out at exorbitant rates at these venues. However not all vantage points are expensive options. There are plenty of free viewing spaces around where families and friends can enjoy the event on a budget.
One of the best ways to enjoy Hong Kong is to use a central location as a base. Cosmo hotel, a popular Hong Kong boutique hotel is one such place. This 4 star hotel Hong Kong in the heart of the retail district of Mongkok with easy access to shopping areas, street markets and malls and close to transport links to whizz to any other city destination, offers a comfortable and convenient place from which to sample the city.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.