Hong Kong transforms into a magical wonderland during Hong Kong Winterfest New Year celebrations, offering something for everyone. This annual celebration is a feast for the senses, from sparkling lights adorning the city’s skyline to musical pyrotechnics shows.
Dive into the heart of the festivities and discover the top attractions that make this season unforgettable for visitors of all ages.
Hong Kong Winterfest: What To Expect
The Hong Kong Winterfest 2024 will be a spectacle for all groups. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for adventure, a foodie eager to indulge in seasonal holiday delights, or a family seeking memorable moments, Hong Kong’s Winterfest has something for everyone.
And if that’s not all, New Year Countdown with its fireworks at the Victoria Harbour is something you’re going to cherish.
Here’s what to experience at Hong Kong Winterfest this year:
The Christmas Town
From 22 November to 1 January 2024, the Harbourside Lawn West, West Kowloon Cultural District features festive-themed citywide Christmas lighting, happenings at key attractions and shopping malls. A 20-meter Christmas Tree with a 3D projection mapping effect is, however, going to be the center of attraction.
To make it more interesting, enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa, along with various live performances spreading the festive and loving atmosphere in the town.
For Food Lovers
If you’re a foodie, the West Kowloon Art Park Christmas Market in Hong Kong is a must-visit this festive season. Indulge in a tempting selection of global holiday treats while browsing stalls brimming with unique Christmas gifts.
The festive atmosphere comes alive with dazzling light displays, live music, and vibrant performances, making it the perfect spot to soak up the holiday spirit. The market runs from November 22 to December 9, 2024 (Fridays to Sundays), and daily from December 12 to 29, 2024.
Around the city, hotels and restaurants are rolling out special Christmas menus to suit every taste and budget. For cocktail enthusiasts, bars across Hong Kong are shaking up festive drinks. Head to The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental for seasonal creations like “Leaving The Port” and “Uno’s Grasshopper,” or check out award-winning favorites like Bar Leone and COA for exceptional cocktails and a lively ambiance.
For Family Travellers
Visit Hong Kong Disneyland, between November 15 to January 1, to make winter wonderland memories. Celebrate the New Year with Disney characters, indulge in festive dining, shop for exclusive merchandise, and stay in themed accommodations.
For another unforgettable family experience, visit Ocean Park Hong Kong, where panda-themed festivities await. Celebrate the birth of Hong Kong’s first-ever giant panda twin cubs that took place on August 15, 2024, and the arrival of two new pandas from Sichuan that took place in September.
Explore the enchanting world of pandas with interactive photo spots, stunning light displays, and captivating art installations.
For Couple Travellers
From December 18, 2024, to February 16, 2025, visit the AIA Carnival for an exhilarating blend of game booths, amusement rides, and festive entertainment.
From November 8 to December 22, 2024, couple travellers can cozy up under the stars at Hong Kong’s premier open-air cinema called The Grounds. Enjoy a curated lineup of films paired with gourmet delights and make it an ideal date-night memory.
For a more intimate experience, take a leisurely hand-in-hand stroll beneath the twinkling holiday lights of Harbour City and Lee Tung Avenue.
For Adventure Lovers
From November 29 to December 1, the outdoor music and arts festival of Clockenflap will take place at The Central Harbourfront. This Winterfest over 100 performances, with international stars like Jack White, Central Cee, Air, St. Vincent, and Suede, alongside regional sensations such as Creepy Nuts, yama, and Sakurazaka46 are going to take place.
Expect a world-class festival experience with multiple stages, immersive art installations, and a delectable selection of food and beverages—all set in a stunning outdoor environment.
For gaming enthusiasts and adventurers, Pokémon GO City Safari arrives in Hong Kong on December 7-8. Players can explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems across the city while catching a variety of Pokémon, including exclusive event species. The Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui will host Pokémon-themed photo spots and souvenir booths, offering Pikachu and Eevee sun visors. This family-friendly outdoor event is a fantastic way to enjoy the cooler weather of early December.
Social Media Livestreaming New Year Countdown Celebrations
Those who would like to enjoy the New Year Celebration happening in Hong Kong from the comfort of their home can also attend the social media live streaming (for performances and fireworks) on HKTB’s official Facebook and YouTube channels.
The livestreaming time is 31 December 2024 from 23:25-24:17 Hong Kong Time (GMT 15:25-16:17).
Details for Satellite Feed for Broadcasters (fireworks only) are as follows:
- Live Feed: 31 December 2024, 23:45-24:12 Hong Kong Time
- Signal Testing: 31 December 2024, 20:00-20:15 Hong Kong Time
- Technical Support: Tel (852) 2888 1944/ (852) 2883 2867
Events On New Year’s Eve In Hong Kong
On New Year’s Eve, Hong Kong is set to offer two very unique experiences – the Firework Musical with the official New Year Countdown welcoming 2025 and Make A Wish on A Shooting Star.
Make a Wish on a Shooting Star Experience
Another interesting event during the Winterfest New Year Celebrations is going to be the “Make a Wish on a Shooting Star” event. This one-of-a-kind event is for dreamers and optimists who wish to have a new beginning this coming year under a dazzling display of pyrotechnic “shooting stars.”
Beginning at 11 PM, every 15 minutes, the night sky over Hong Kong will be illuminated by a breathtaking spectacle, with shooting stars launched from the rooftops of three of the city’s most iconic buildings: Cheung Kong Centre, Harbour Centre, and Harcourt House. The synchronized bursts of light will create a mesmerizing scene, offering a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and wish for a brighter future while welcoming the year 2025.
Firework Musical — The Official New Year Countdown Ceremony
On 31 December 2024, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) Viewing Deck will conduct The Officiating Ceremony, where the firework musical – a 12-minute celebration with pyrotechnics and fireworks synchronised to energetic theme music and vibrant lighting.
With the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) serving as the focal point, the pyrotechnics and fireworks celebrations will be launched from the rooftops of 3 buildings in Wan Chai and Admiralty and 5 barges across Victoria Harbour, along with a massive aerial screen, for visitors to witness a unique spectacle.
Themed ‘The Melody of Happiness,’ this spectacular display showcases the concept of the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – reflecting our connection to nature while celebrating the passion, joy, resilience and hope in our lives.
The fireworks display will showcase four stunning effects, including a first-ever feature never seen before in Hong Kong, illuminating the skyline of Victoria Harbour – all with theme music produced by renowned music producer and composer Chiu Tsang Hei.
For those who don’t know, CHIU Tsang-Hei has been one of the most celebrated names in Hong Kong’s music industry. His composition work has been used as the theme music for the annual firework New Year countdown celebration by Hong Kong Tourism Board since 2012.
Attending Hong Kong Winterfest: The Conclusion
Hong Kong Winterfest 2024 truly has something for everyone, making it the ultimate destination to celebrate the holiday season. The city transforms into a magical wonderland captivating visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re indulging in holiday treats, strolling under sparkling lights, or welcoming the New Year with spectacular fireworks, Winterfest promises unforgettable memories.
Also, to gain more insight into what else is happening in the city, you can also refer to the HKTB’s official website.