Many Hong Kong people flocked to cinemas and restaurants to enjoy special perks offered as part of National Day celebrations.

At a shopping mall in Kowloon Tong, dozens lined up outside a cinema for half-price tickets.

"The ticket is like HK$30 today," a woman, Leung, told RTHK, adding that she hopes more promotions and discounts can be offered.

Secondary one student Latanya said the discounts make things more affordable for her.

"It does have a great impact for people coming to the cinema and they [cinemas] will earn more money, and it is great for students as well since it's more affordable," she said.

Another student, Manha, said she will make good use of the money saved.

"I'm just going to buy more stuff, maybe more people will [also] come here to buy stuff because it's more affordable," she said.

Thousands of restaurants are also offering discounts, leading to queues forming outside.

Leo Choy was one of the diners at a restaurant that serves up Southeast Asian fare and was offering 30 percent off for all menu items.

"I had Hainan chicken rice. Usually the price is around HK$80 to HK$100 here, but today it is HK$70 for the meal, with drinks included," he said.

"I used my own money to pay for the meal, so I saved about HK$20 today.

"I will use it to buy snacks like chips and ice cream, or maybe I will save it for when I want to buy something."

A man surnamed Wong said he will also make use of the perks to dine at a Japanese restaurant.

"I will use the discounts for my lunch today, and I'll probably spend around HK$1,000.

"There's actually not much difference from usual, it just happens that there are discounts, but of course it would encourage me to eat out."

People can also get free rides on trams and selected ferry services while kids ride free on designated bus routes.

Also complimentary is entry to all public museums and facilities at government sports centres and cultural venues.