July 1 handover celebration offers 71,000 free rides: John Lee

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced on Tuesday that free rides, museum visits, and dining discounts will be offered as part of the July 1 celebrations, marking the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the mainland.

Speaking to the press ahead of his Executive Council meeting, Lee said that citizens can enjoy a variety of complimentary offerings throughout the day to commemorate the occasion.

The MTR will distribute 71,000 tickets through a lucky draw, allowing winners to enjoy a free one-way ride on designated routes any day within the next six months.

Citizens can also take advantage of free tram rides for three consecutive days starting July 1, as well as free travel on the Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Wanchai on the anniversary.

Meanwhile, Lee noted that children aged three to 11 can ride the Airport Express for free, while passengers aged 60 and above will receive half-price tickets.

Members of the public will have free access to regular exhibitions at the Hong Kong Science Museum, the Hong Kong Space Museum, the Hong Kong Museum of Art, as well as M+. All exhibitions at the Hong Kong Palace Museum will also be free.

Entry to the Hong Kong Wetland Park, government-run indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, will also be free.

Ocean Park Hong Kong will launch a promotional package for tickets before July 3, and on July 1, children and seniors will receive discounted cable car tickets at Ngong Ping 360.

Meanwhile, more than 1,000 restaurants and merchants will offer dining specials on July 1. In addition, the Hong Kong Tourism Board will partner with local businesses to offer a range of dining, shopping, attraction, tour, and entertainment deals.

Furthermore, various public markets and Housing Authority-run shopping centers will host activities and consumer promotions.

Members of the public can also enjoy a 29 percent discount when purchasing selected products of the Fish Marketing Organization and the Vegetable Marketing Organization via the "Local Fresh" online store or mobile app from July 1 to 7.

(Judy Cui)