More than 380,000 spectators put aside their worries about the economy and global problems for 23 minutes last night when they turned out to watch the National Day firework display.
Revellers who gathered on both sides of Victoria Harbour had a second reason to celebrate, with the Mid-Autumn Festival falling on the same day this year.
The show kicked off at 10pm, with the National Anthem accompanied by red and purple fireworks shooting into the clear sky from seven barges in the harbour.
Beijing's successful bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games was the second theme of the $3.5 million spectacle.
Crowds cheered as the five Olympic rings were lit up with fireworks.
The show closed with another colourful display and robust music to wish a 'happy birthday' to China.