Government House will be open to the public on March 17 (Sunday) from 10am to 5pm.
       
     Visitors will be able to view the well-nurtured flowers and trees in the garden and the landscaped area of Government House, and see the places where the Chief Executive holds official functions and receives dignitaries. They can enjoy musical performances by the Hong Kong Police Band and student ensembles as well as puppet shows. There will also be guided tours by the Antiquities and Monuments Office on the history and architectural features of the distinguished building.
 
     "Display boards and QR codes will be set up along the visitors' route to share details of the history, architecture and important moments of Government House. Visitors may use their smartphones or other mobile devices with suitable software for browsing information about Government House. Photo props will also be provided at two specific locations for photo shoots," a government spokesman said. 
 
     "Due to above-normal temperatures in the past winter, the azaleas which used to flourish in the garden at Government House every March in the past have already had their full bloom this year. However, there will still be plenty of flowers and other plants for visitors to enjoy. In addition, as on the last open day, a set of souvenir chops themed on the architectural features of Government House will be available at specific locations along the visitors' route for stamping. There will also be a new set of chops featuring the flowers at Government House." (A photo of one of the souvenir chops is attached for reference.)
 
     The spokesman added that as a large number of visitors are anticipated on the day, queuing outside Government House may be stopped before 5pm so that those waiting in the queue can be admitted in time. Visitors will enter the garden through the east gate on Upper Albert Road and leave through the main gate of Government House. The visitors' routing is one-way only. They are encouraged to arrive by public transport or on foot. Water dispensers will also be available at the venue. To care for the environment, no disposable cups will be provided. Visitors are welcome to bring their own bottles.
 
     Visitors may visit the brand new website of Government House (www.ceo.gov.hk/gh/eng) for details of the open day.
 
     Government House is a declared monument under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance. 
 

Ends/Sunday, March 10, 2019
Issued at HKT 14:12

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