A 23-minute fireworks display will light up Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor on Oct. 1 to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

A total of 28,300 pieces of firing shells will be discharged in the display, beginning at 8:00 p.m., according to a government press release.

The display is sponsored by the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and coordinated by the Home Affairs Bureau.

Divided into 10 spectacular scenes, the fireworks will, for the first time, be discharged from four barges, making the display more panoramic.

Highlights of the display are the fourth, sixth and ninth scenes. The fourth scene featuring smiling-face patterns, coupled with colorful comets at low level, reminds Hong Kong people to keep smiling in all situations.

The sixth scene with fireworks shells bursting from water, changing color from gold to red patterns, will create appealing visual effects.

More than 1,000 palm shells will fill up the sky in the ninth scene enhanced with red heart and golden moon patterns.

The fireworks will reach the climax at the last scene with fast and rhythmic display of colorful patterns at different heights to create a stunning impact.

The display can be seen from many vantage points on both sides of the harbor, including Mid-levels, Central District, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Hung Hom Bypass. However, part of Tsim Sha Tsui East will be closed due to construction work.

(Xinhua News Agency September 24, 2004)