HK to offer free tram rides and museum exhibitions on 1 July

Hong Kong is introducing a series of special offers and free activities on 1 July for the public to celebrate the 26th anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule, including free tram rides and museum exhibitions. 

On 1 July, the public will be able to enjoy free tram and Star Ferry rides, which will be serving stops around the harbour and run between Central and Tai O on Lantau Island, said John Lee, the chief executive of Hong Kong on 20 June. Moreover, fares for designated ferry routes, including between Central and Hung Hom, as well as North Point and Kwun Tong, will also be free of charge.

Furthermore, HongKongers can visit Hong Kong Wetland Park for free on 1 July. The permanent exhibitions of Science Museum, Space Museum, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, M+ Museum and Palace Museum will also offer free admission to the public on the day. Additionally, facilities operated by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, including most swimming pools, indoor and outdoor leisure facilities will also be opened for free. 

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In terms of the catering industry, over 1,000 restaurants will offer a discount on designated dishes on that day. The discount rate, 71%, is drawn from the phrasing of discounts in Chinese – which referring to 1 July.

“The overall social atmosphere in Hong Kong is happier, livelier, and with more confidence and hope now. The government will continue to achieve economic growth, development and competitiveness of the city,” Lee said.

Meanwhile, Lee also warned residents against the “hijacking” of handover celebrations.“We had two years of 1 July being hijacked by people, breaking peace and committing illegal acts. Therefore, we must not take it lightly. On such a day worth celebrating, everyone should try their best to spend this day worth celebrating happily and festively," he said.

"If anyone takes advantage of this opportunity to hijack, or create a bad atmosphere or launch destructive activities, we will definitely pursue the legal responsibility, and will not allow similar actions to hijack this day that is worth celebrating," he added.

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