National Day fireworks dazzle after 5-year hiatus

The National Day fireworks display illuminated Hong Kong's sky on Sunday, captivating over 430,000 spectators gathered along Victoria Harbor to witness the spectacular show after a five-year hiatus.

A total of 31,888 firing shells were discharged from three barges and six pontoons in the approximately 23-minute extravaganza to celebrate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

At 9 pm, the first scene of the fireworks display, themed "Together on National Day with Jubilant Fireworks," began. Various patterns, including hearts, red stars, and smiling faces, layered in the sky, drawing gasps of astonishment from the audience.

In the second scene, "Hello Hong Kong, Happy Hong Kong," elements of smiling faces and the bauhinia, the floral emblem of Hong Kong, appeared, while the sixth scene, "Rooted in China, Advancing as One," featured red five-pointed stars accompanied by flourishes of different color combinations.

The fireworks display reached its climax in the last scene, "Prospering Nation, Blessings for Hong Kong," with fireworks resembling a crown and palm brocades, along with alternating red and sparkling fireworks.

Enthusiastic applause and cheers erupted from the crowd as the show concluded.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the event symbolized Hong Kong's return to normalcy and progress toward a brighter future after overcoming challenges.

Hong Kong Tourism Association Executive Director Timothy Chui said that hotels with views of Victoria Harbor offered themed accommodation deals centered around the fireworks display, with over 90 percent of rooms and restaurants booked.