The glamour of Hong Kong’s waterfronts, East-West cultural fusion, culinary heritage, and family-friendly attractions like Disneyland and Ocean Park extend to its myriad festivals and events which take place throughout the year. Many of the 34 million tourists who landed on the island in 2023 would have watched the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, participated in Chinese New Year festivities, and bit into mooncakes in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events are just the tip of the iceberg of concerts, exhibitions, sports matches, and movie screenings that you can take advantage of on any given day. Here are some of the biggest events you can look forward to in the last few months of 2024.
This gastronomic experience is eagerly anticipated by Hongkongers every year. The 2024 edition will feature 300 tasting booths offering gourmet experiences from 35 countries to showcase the diverse array of global flavours at the Central Harbourfront Event Space. In addition to popular wine regions like Bordeaux, Chile, and Australia, the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival will feature emerging stars, including Chinese wines and spirits from Ningxia, Yunnan, and Shandong. This year’s new thematic zone, “Culinary Stars,” will showcase nearly 12 chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants and selected Asia’s 50 Best Bars, all of whom will create exclusive delicacies for the festival. There will also be musical performances at various mini stages for the public to enjoy as they sip on wine, whisky, and cocktails and wolf down street food. The main event takes place from October 23-27 but the good times will continue to roll all the way through November. The culinary adventure continues in November with the 'Taste Around Town' celebration, featuring over 300 restaurants and bars across Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories. This month-long event will offer diverse dining options and exclusive offers that highlight the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Halloween in Hong Kong is a hauntingly good time filled with thrilling activities. Even if you’re not a fan of the scary festivities, the colourful displays around the city will elevate your social game. At Hong Kong Disneyland, beloved characters will embrace the mystical celebration with wicked parties and electrifying parades. The Ocean Park amusement space will feature spine-tingling haunted houses, making it a chilling choice for those seeking a scare. If you want to let your hair down and engage in some Halloween revelry, head to Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo for a party atmosphere. Join in the fun in your spooky attire or watch crowds showcase their imaginative costumes, which you can buy at Pottinger Street, Tai Yuen Street and Fuk Wing Street.
The Asia+ Festival features outstanding artists from nearly 30 countries across Asia, the “Belt and Road” regions and the Middle East. There will be over 100 performances and activities showcasing the essence of the cultural traditions and innovations from these regions, including dynamic multimedia dance performances, concerts by internationally acclaimed pianists and vocalists, imaginative participatory and ambient multimedia music performances, and a new “Middle Eastern Series” that blends the styles of the Middle East and the West in a number of performances. Additionally, there will be thematic exhibitions, an outdoor carnival, film screenings and more. The festival is ongoing and runs till November 30.
Every winter, Hong Kong’s skyline shines even brighter with the WinterFest. The harbourfront of the West Kowloon Cultural District transforms into a spectacular Christmas Town, adorned with a giant sparkling Christmas tree, whimsical displays and a fireworks experience. The cheery atmosphere permeates across the island as visitors and residents enjoy a series of festive activities at top attractions, along with prestigious offers and privileges from top-tier shopping malls and shops. Classy hotels and restaurants will offer exclusive menus while themed tours and itineraries will be available for exploration. Keep an eye on social media for this year’s dates and activities.
One of the most exciting places to ring in the new year anywhere in the world is undoubtedly the Victoria Harbour of Hong Kong. When the clock strikes midnight, the site becomes a giant canvas filled with colourful pyrotechnics and magnificent lighting effects. The cheers and celebrations of revellers will last long into the early hours of the new day. Last year, there were pre-show wish-making sessions every 15 minutes from 11 PM. Stay tuned for this year’s schedule on social media.
Additionally, Chinese New Year is one of Hong Kong's most significant festivals, marked by vibrant red lanterns, lively lion dances, bustling markets, and prayers for good fortune. The celebration features an array of auspicious cuisines that embody the spirit of the season. From interactive installations to elaborate festive decorations, the city comes alive with numerous celebratory events, all designed to welcome the new year with joy and prosperity.