Cinemas will offer tickets at half price and many modes of public transport will be free of charge on October 1 to mark National Day, Chief Executive John Lee announced on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters before the Executive Council meeting, Lee hailed the success of celebratory events and concessions marking the July 1 handover anniversary. As a result, he said, the government and various public bodies have planned a series of similar activities and promotions for National Day.

The CE said people can take the tram, Light Rail, MTR bus services, along with two ferry routes – the Tsim Sha Tsui-Wan Chai route run by Star Ferry and North Point-Kai Tak-Kwun Tong route operated by Fortune Ferry – free of charge.

Holders of child Octopus cards will be able to ride the "heavy rail lines", including the local lines and cross-border East Rail services, as well as bus services operated by KMB and Long Win, at no cost.

The CE also said tickets at more than 60 commercial cinemas around town will be 50 percent off.

He added that venues managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, including most swimming pools, will be accessible to the public free of charge.

People can visit the Science Museum, Space Museum and Wetland Park for free as well.

Lee said more than 1,000 eateries will offer discounts, and encouraged other shops to join the promotion campaign.