Hong Kong to mark July 1 anniversary with flag-raising ceremony, citywide deals

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Hong Kong is marking the 29th anniversary of its return to Chinese sovereignty this Wednesday, with businesses and authorities rolling out a range of promotions for the big day.

A flag-raising ceremony at Wan Chai’s Golden Bauhinia Square will kick-start the celebrations, with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, other top officials and prominent figures to attend.

After the ceremony, the city leader will give his annual handover speech at a reception held at the nearby Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

To get into the public holiday spirit, more than 1,000 shops, restaurants and other outlets are offering a range of retail and dining promotions.

Residents can also enjoy free tram rides and admission to sports facilities managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.

Follow the South China Morning Post’s live coverage on the day’s happenings.

Reporting by Leopold Chen, Matthew Cheng, Kate Chan, Theodora Yu, Benjamin Fuller, Kristen Cheung and Jeffie Lam

WATCH LIVE: Ceremony marking 29th anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover