Published: 18:04, August 14, 2024
SAR gearing up for National Day celebrations
By Oasis Hu & Brandon Lam in Hong Kong

People take photos as the Chinese national flags flutter in Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong, in celebration of the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct 1, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

Various districts in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region are making preparations to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on Oct 1, combining their characteristics with traditional Chinese culture and trending Chinese mainland pop culture.

In Tai Po, a drone display is due to take place on Sept 21 at a football field. It’s likely to feature a yellow dinosaur named “Nailoong”-- a beloved cartoon character on the mainland.

There’ll be a boat cruise along the Lam Tsuen River in the western part of the district, offering residents and tourists a chance to enjoy the scenic night views.

A parade inspired by the traditional annual Tin Hau Festival procession will also be held, showcasing traditional dragon and lion dances.

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Wu Cheuk-him, a Tai Po district councilor, said this year’s events will cover water, land and air activities that are expected to draw about 100,000 visitors to the district.

Kwun Tong will hold a range of folk culture events from Sept 28 to October, including a Chinese food bazaar, photo booths showcasing the scenic beauty of mainland provinces, traditional handicraft workshops and performances. Students in Kwun Tong will be wearing different ethnic costumes, serving as event ambassadors.

In October, Kwun Tong will organize a parade tour focusing on Chinese wedding culture and featuring traditional items. Residents who are 75 years old will be invited to take part.

Southern District, which is renowned for its fishing culture, will show off sampans with nostalgic elements and modern LED lights for passengers to appreciate the sights of Aberdeen harbor. It will also stage events featuring fishermen’s marriage customs, offering visitors a glimpse of their traditional lifestyle.

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Around the Mid-Autumn Festival, the district will stage a fire dragon dance. Lighting decorations in high-traffic areas will be installed to enhance the festive ambiance.

Sham Shui Po will hold a fashion design competition focusing on the guo chao trend, or “China chic”.

The National Day fireworks display lit up the evening sky of Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong on Oct 1, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

In the Central and Western District, an exhibition showcasing the lion head paper crafting technique will be organized to promote the intangible cultural heritage.

Tuen Mun will organize a beach festival, including a youth band show competition and stage performances. A drone display over the sea will be a new addition this year.

READ MORE: HK's National Day fireworks dazzle after 5-year hiatus

In the Islands District, there will be a Cantonese opera show, a cheerleading competition, a bazaar and circus acts. An islands beach day, featuring musical performances, will also be held.

The activities will be coordinated by the Home Affairs Department’s district offices in the 18 districts. Residents can obtain details of the upcoming events on the department’s website.