The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was filled with festive energy on Tuesday as residents and visitors celebrated the 28th anniversary of the city’s return to the motherland.

Many attendees said the slew of celebratory activities deepened their understanding of Hong Kong’s history and strengthened their sense of national identity and belonging.

Despite sweltering heat and intermittent downpours, residents flooded the streets, clutching national and HKSAR flags, immersing themselves in special activities marking the occasion. 

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Across the city, buildings, sidewalks, and footbridges were draped in red, with both flags prominently displayed. Collaborating with local businesses and community groups, the HKSAR government organized over 100 celebratory events, alongside public transport, dining, and shopping discounts.  

Six-year-old Aiden Xiang Wang, who arrived in the city with his parents, joined the Reunification Cup parent-child sports event at Wan Chai Sports Ground in the morning.

He said he is happy to realize his passion for sports during the event. His parents said the event not only deepened their child’s sense of belonging, but also imparted national pride by exposing him to such festivities.

At the same event, William and Isabella Yeung brought their five-year-old son, Cyrus. They emphasized the importance of promoting patriotism through family activities, adding that a thriving society is built collectively by every harmonious household.

In Wan Chai, a screening of the film Operation Red Sea was held to mark the day. Directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Dante Lam Chiu-yin, the 2018 action war movie centers on an overseas rescue operation of Chinese nationals.

Among the audience, 73-year-old Choy Yat-leung was moved to tears as he recalled the pre-1997 days when patriotism was expressed secretly, especially when seeing streets adorned with national flags today.

He urged all sectors — especially young people — to deepen their love and understanding of the nation, calling for more activities like the movie screening and residents sharing their own experiences to convey their love and understanding of the nation.

Daniel Tse Ngan-chuen, 62, reflected on the transformative changes over 28 years, and described the film screening as particularly meaningful for learning about the motherland on this special day.

Amid the vibrant anniversary celebrations at the West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong-based European writer Nora Mankel visited the Hong Kong Palace Museum with her friend Sam Phillips, eager to explore the iconic cultural landmark.

“Studying Chinese history made me want to experience this place firsthand,” said Mankel, clutching an unopened museum brochure. Both were thrilled to learn that the museum was offering free admission for the anniversary — only to arrive and find all slots fully booked.

Despite the disappointment, they said the occasion inspired them to explore the significance of Hong Kong’s reunification with the motherland more deeply. “Anniversary celebrations like this help international visitors better understand the city’s history,” Mankel said.

Their experience reflects a growing global interest in Hong Kong’s cultural scene. “Suddenly, I’m researching why July 1 matters beyond just museum discounts,” Phillips said, adding that they would return with pre-booked tickets.

By noon, all free admissions to the Hong Kong Palace Museum had been reserved. Earlier, at 11:30 am, the museum had recorded 1,200 visitors, while the nearby M+ museum welcomed 3,800.

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Meanwhile, at a carnival in Hong Kong Island’s Western District, nine-year-old Ranomi Mouique Elijandy celebrated with her grandmother.

“We all know why we celebrate,” said the student from the ESF Kennedy School, adding that the games helped her connect with the history of Hong Kong’s return to the nation — and share in the joyful atmosphere.

Discount initiatives flourished with over 4,000 eateries offering special discounts, Star Ferry routes between Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai providing free rides, and the MTR Corp distributing 71,000 free single-journey tickets via a lottery.

Children aged 3-11 rode the Airport Express for free, while seniors over 60 received half-price fares. Free public access was granted to Hong Kong Wetland Park, M+ museum, Hong Kong Palace Museum, and numerous Leisure and Cultural Services Department facilities.  

Huang Yawen contributed to the story.

Contact the writer at stephyzhang@chinadailyhk.com