|
National Day celebration spotlights achievements and prospects
文章
2024 年 9 月 30 日
The celebration of the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China is a momentous occasion, not just for the Chinese mainland, but for Hong Kong as well, which is gearing up to host over 400 events in honor of the National Day.
The festivities aim to bring the celebratory spirit to every corner of the city, ensuring that both residents and visitors experience Hong Kong’s vibrant energy in this era of high-quality national development. For the city’s industries, especially tourism and retail, this is also a moment to polish Hong Kong’s reputation as the “capital of mega events” and welcome visitors with open arms.
This year’s National Day celebrations in Hong Kong are set to be the largest in recent memory. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has spared no effort in organizing a wide range of activities. Apart from the traditional fireworks display, which has long been a hallmark of Hong Kong’s National Day celebrations, newer high-tech features like drone light shows are becoming a staple of the festivities. Additionally, many government departments and cultural institutions are offering free admission to facilities, and popular tourist spots like the West Kowloon Cultural District, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Ngong Ping 360, and the Peak Tram are offering special discounts to draw in the crowds.
For anyone looking to indulge in some retail therapy or dining out, there are plenty of deals to be had. On Oct 1, moviegoers can enjoy half-priced tickets at cinemas across the city. Meanwhile, over 10,000 public market and street vendors will offer 25 percent discounts on goods, and around 3,000 restaurants and retailers will feature special promotions on selected food and beverages. The goal is clear: to make sure that the festive atmosphere is felt not just in grand public spaces, but in everyday life, thus making the celebrations accessible to all.
Beyond discounts and fireworks, this year’s National Day also has a deeper, more reflective side. The HKSAR government has put significant thought into promoting patriotism among its people. An exhibition series about the splendid achievements that New China has made since its founding will highlight the country’s progress over the past seven-and-a-half decades in fields like economics, infrastructure, society, culture, sports, and technology. Through these displays, the organizers hope to strengthen the sense of national pride and belonging among Hong Kong residents, reminding them of the nation’s remarkable development and their role within it.
Visually, the city will be festooned with patriotic decorations. Government departments will display more than 185,000 National Day promotional materials and installations across the city. For the first time, 75 government buildings will feature tilted flagpoles with the national and regional flags arranged in rows, creating striking displays of unity. The scale of these decorations will be the largest in Hong Kong’s history, ensuring that the celebratory mood is felt in every neighborhood.
The emphasis on patriotism aligns with President Xi Jinping’s message during his July 1, 2022 address, wherein he spoke of the importance of promoting core values centered around love for both the country and the Hong Kong SAR. As Hong Kong moves forward under the “one country, two systems” framework, the spirit of patriotism has become a shared consensus in society. This year’s diverse National Day activities are expected to highlight this patriotic spirit even more, raising awareness and deepening residents’ love for their country.
But National Day isn’t just a local celebration — it’s also a major time for tourism, particularly from the Chinese mainland. Historically, the National Day holiday is one of the busiest times for mainland visitors to flock to Hong Kong. According to Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, the city welcomed over 29.5 million visitors in the first eight months of 2024, a 45 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Of those visitors, around 23 million came from the mainland, while non-mainland tourists accounted for over 6.5 million, marking a 63 percent year-on-year rise. With the Golden Week holiday approaching, the government expects even more visitors to arrive.
To accommodate this surge in tourism, the HKSAR government is making extensive preparations. Authorities are boosting manpower at border checkpoints and coordinating transport and customs services. Measures are also being taken to manage crowds, increase parking spaces for tour buses, and add extra public transportation services. As mainland tourists flood in, Hong Kong’s hospitality and retail sectors will need to be on their toes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors. Businesses are also being encouraged to adopt new methods and introduce innovative ideas to make visitors feel truly welcome.
At the same time, this influx of tourists provides an excellent opportunity for Hong Kong to tell its story — and China’s story — to the world. Through the rich tapestry of National Day events, the city can showcase not just its own unique identity, but its place within the broader narrative of China’s development. Whether through cultural exhibitions, public performances, or simply the warm hospitality of its people, Hong Kong has a chance to show the world what it means to be part of a rising China.
As Hong Kong prepares to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, it is abundantly clear that this year’s National Day will be about more than just fireworks and festivities. It will be a time for reflection on the city’s role in China’s remarkable journey and a chance to strengthen the bonds that tie Hong Kong and the mainland together. Whether through the lens of patriotism, tourism, or community celebration, Oct 1, 2024, promises to be a day that reminds everyone of both the progress that has been made and the promise of a bright future ahead.
The author is the convener at China Retold, a member of the Legislative Council, and a member of the Central Committee of the New People’s Party.
|