HONG KONG, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- A series of both official and community celebration activities were held in Hong Kong on Sunday to mark the 57th National Day of the People's Republic of China.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government held the flag raising ceremony at 8:00 a.m. at the Golden Bauhinia Square outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center (HKCEC).

Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang joined hundreds of guests including government officials, members of the consular corps, dignitaries and community leaders at the ceremony.

The ceremony was followed by performances from the police band and a mixed choir from the Diocesan boys' and girls' schools. Then came a sea parade and a fly-past by the disciplined services.

The National Day reception, which was hosted by the Chief Executive, was held after the flag raising ceremony at the HKCEC Grand Hall. Thousands of guests, including members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, consular corps, heads of missions in Hong Kong, senior government officials and members of various community sectors took part in the reception.

In the evening, the Organizing Committee of Compatriots in Hong Kong for Celebration of the 57th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China staged a variety show at 7:00 p.m. at Hong Kong Coliseum in Hung Hom.

A spectacular 23-minute fireworks display light up Victoria Harbor Sunday night to celebrate the National Day. A total of 23, 888 firing shells were discharged in the display.

The performance included 10 scenes with fireworks discharged from three barges. It was designed not only to showcase the Chinese mainland's harmony and prosperity, but also to celebrate the hosting of 2008 Beijing Olympics as well as Hong Kong organizing the 2008 Olympic Games Equestrian Event. Enditem