The National Day fireworks display lit up the evening sky of Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong on Oct 1, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG - Hong Kong witnessed a vibrant and record-setting consumer market as the city moved to unlock its spending potential during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday from Sept 30 to Oct 2.

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The Hong Kong Palace Museum proved to be a major highlight, breaking records with over 9,200 visitors on Oct 2, marking the highest single-day attendance since its opening in July 2022. Additionally, the promotional efforts by the Hong Kong Theatres Association resulted in another remarkable achievement, with the highest number of admissions on National Day in nearly a decade, attracting over 150,000 people.

People perform a fire dragon dance at Aberdeen on Sept 29, 2023, as Hong Kong celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

The food and beverage industry also witnessed a significant increase in consumption and recreational activities. More than 1,700 restaurants in Hong Kong provided a 30 percent discount during the festive period, in addition to offering special set menus and food promotions.

People perform a fire dragon dance at Aberdeen on Sept 29, 2023, as Hong Kong celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that the Night Vibes Hong Kong campaign would continue until early next year

According to Simon Wong, the president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, the three-day holiday is expected to generate around 1.2 billion Hong Kong dollars (about $150 million) in revenue for the food and beverage industry, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

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After a five-year hiatus, the National Day fireworks display illuminated Hong Kong's sky, captivating over 430,000 spectators gathered along both sides of Victoria Harbour, eager to witness the grandiose spectacle firsthand.

A giant full moon lantern is displayed at East Coast Park Precinct in Hong Kong, Sept 29, 2023. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

The fireworks show was one of the events of the Night Vibes Hong Kong campaign, and following the mesmerizing display, a large number of citizens flocked to The Waterfront Carnival in Wan Chai to immerse themselves in the vibrant market atmosphere. Long queues formed in front of various stalls, as people indulged in the bustling event.

A child in contact with fish lanterns at Victoria Park to mark the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sept 29, 2023, in Hong Kong. (PARKER ZHENG / CHINA DAILY)

Starting from Sept 27, night markets were set up in three waterfront locations: Wan Chai, Kwun Tong, and Kennedy Town, adding to the festive ambiance and providing more opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

A fire boat sprays water as it displays the Chinese national flag and the flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in celebration of the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Oct 1, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

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These night markets featured diverse performances and a wide variety of stalls, becoming a vibrant evening spectacle. Kennedy Town's market, located along the Belcher Bay Promenade, not only offered traditional snacks and handicrafts but also provided massage services and cotton candy making. Live music performances were also held every night.

The National Day fireworks display lights up the night sky of Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong, Oct 1, 2023. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that the Night Vibes Hong Kong campaign would continue until early next year, and authorities will continue to gather public opinions and incorporate new elements to offer more choices for the citizens.