The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region launched a series of celebratory activities on Wednesday morning to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The National Day celebrations began with a flag-raising ceremony at the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, accompanied by senior government officials, attended the event.

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While the national flag was being raised to the tune of “March of the Volunteers”, a helicopter from the Government Flying Service flew over the Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong carrying the national flag of China, while another helicopter flew by its side.

The CE later officiated at a National Day reception at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). He delivered a speech there with local and central government officials, leading business figures, and other dignitaries in attendance.

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Another flag-raising ceremony was held at the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR. Zhou Ji, director of the office, and other officials attended the event.