Fireworks explode over Tian Tan Buddha, Asia's largest bronze seated Buddha, at Po Lin Monastery on Hong Kong's Lantau island June 23, 2007. The event is part of the celebrations for the upcoming 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to China. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, June 25 -- As July first approaches, the people of Hong Kong have started celebrating the anniversary of its return to the mainland with a wide range of activities.

    Drawing in the dragon's eyes. And once it can see, the dancing will begin. The dancers are all local residents.

    Andy M. K. Kwok, head coach Kwok's Kung Fu & dragon lion team, said, "Chinese people think dragon and lion dance brings happiness to everybody, the happiness and good work, so we use dance to celebrate."Andy Kwok feels there could be nothing better to celebrate the 10th anniversary with than a hundred such guardians. David Chan and his friends agree. They've been rehearsing for months.

    David Chan, lion dancer Kwok's Kung Fu & dragon lion team, said, "Hong Kong is so good, because China is stronger; I think Hong Kong will become even better in the future."

    The dragon boats are also a must for big celebrations in Hong Kong. A series of carnival events will be held through out the week, putting the SAR in a festive mood.

    It's events like this that demonstrate the growing sense of being part of China. The boating festival is just a small part of the celebrations. They are all leading up to the grand finale on July 1st, when the Hong Kong SAR turns 10 years old.

(Source: CCTV.com)