Thousands of people gathered at the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) airbase in Shek Kong on Saturday to celebrate the upcoming 29th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese rule. Families, military enthusiasts, and visitors arrived early despite the intense summer heat to take part in one of the city’s largest public celebration events.
The open day was organized as part of activities leading up to the July 1 anniversary, which marks Hong Kong’s handover from British administration to China in 1997. The annual occasion is celebrated with public events, ceremonies, and community activities across the city.
Long lines formed outside the Shek Kong airbase well before the gates opened at 9 a.m. Many visitors arrived more than an hour early to secure entry and enjoy the full program of activities planned for the day.
Among the first people waiting outside the base was military enthusiast Kin Man, who traveled from Tai Po with his mother. They joined hundreds of other ticket holders eager to enter the military facility and watch demonstrations by PLA personnel.
Visitors were treated to a series of helicopter flying displays that highlighted the aircraft’s capabilities and the skills of military pilots. The demonstrations attracted large crowds, with many spectators taking photographs and recording videos throughout the performances.
The event also gave members of the public the opportunity to closely examine military vehicles, helicopters, and other defense equipment normally not accessible to civilians. Visitors explored display areas where military personnel introduced different types of equipment and explained their functions.
Families with children were among the largest groups attending the celebration. Many young visitors climbed into military vehicles, viewed aircraft up close, and spoke with service members about military operations and equipment. The interactive displays proved especially popular throughout the day.
Despite temperatures remaining high, thousands continued arriving at the airbase as the event progressed. Organizers put measures in place to help visitors cope with the hot weather, while many attendees carried umbrellas, hats, and water bottles to protect themselves from the strong sunshine.
The Shek Kong open day has become one of the most popular public events held during Hong Kong’s handover anniversary celebrations. It provides residents with a rare opportunity to visit a military base and learn more about the People’s Liberation Army’s presence in the city.
Hong Kong officially returned to Chinese sovereignty on July 1, 1997, ending more than 150 years of British administration. Since then, the anniversary has remained one of the city’s most significant annual events, marked by official ceremonies, cultural activities, and public celebrations.
Military open days are often included in the anniversary program because they allow the public to see equipment demonstrations, aviation displays, and exhibitions that are not normally available. These events also provide opportunities for interaction between service members and local residents.
The People’s Liberation Army maintains several military facilities in Hong Kong and regularly organizes public visits during important national celebrations. Tickets for these events are often distributed in advance because of strong public demand and limited visitor capacity.
Officials said the event was designed to promote public understanding of the military while allowing families to enjoy educational and entertainment activities in a safe environment. Security measures were maintained throughout the day to ensure the smooth movement of visitors.
The Hong Kong Handover Celebration continues to attract large crowds each year as residents take part in events marking an important moment in the city’s modern history. With helicopter displays, military exhibitions, and family-friendly activities, the Shek Kong airbase open day once again became a major highlight of this year’s anniversary celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors from across Hong Kong.
