Hong Kong celebrates 29th anniversary of handover with citywide ceremonies

On July 1, Hong Kong marked the 29th anniversary of its return to the People’s Republic of China. The government held a flag‑raising ceremony at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the national, regional and university flags hoisted amid music by the police band. Chief Executive John Lee Ka‑chiu praised the city’s economic development and urged residents to seize national and international opportunities. Public celebrations spanned free transport on trams and ferries, discounted entry to attractions, sporting events, cultural exhibitions and a large drone show over Victoria Harbour.

At the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, a 35‑member Flag Guard Team from the Clear Water Bay and Guangzhou campuses performed a solemn flag ceremony. Students and alumni trained for over two weeks, travelling between campuses and rehearsing in heavy rain, to honor both the Hong Kong SAR and the national flag, symbolising the university’s 35th anniversary and its ties to mainland China.