Joanna James
Hong Kong has some of the most vibrant festivals in China, and if you plan on travelling to the city then do try to visit during a holiday. Here are some of the top festivals to attend in Hong Kong.
Also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, this festival originated in China and has Taoist and Buddhist roots. Similar to the Day of the Dead in Mexico, the ghost festival is a celebration for those who have passed. On the day of the festival, a gate is opened between earth, heaven and hell, and the spirits cross over. Locals honour the dead by burning incense and creating paper-mâché figurines of the Ghost King.
Originating from Hong Kong's Cheung Chau island, the festival is part of a Taoist traditional that marks the birth of Buddha. Kwon Kam Kee buns are used to create a towering centrepiece, most of which will be eaten during the festival.
While this is still technically a protest march against unfair treatment of the LGBTQ+, the protest march has over the years turned into a vibrant parade celebrating love and equality.
A celebration held right before the new year, the fair is known for its extravagant flower markets selling blooms like peony, chrysanthemum and miniature fruit plants like mandarin. The fair attracts thousands of locals who are preparing themselves for New Year's Eve. If you plan on travelling during this period, be warned, the city will be packed with tourists and locals returning home for the holidays. It's wise to search ahead of time for any Hong Kong hotel deals. Several hotels like Park Hotel Hong Kong offer benefits and special rates on rooms.
An annual event staged by the French Embassy in Hong Kong, the festival to promote French art and culture. Visitors can expect to see art, performances, operas and evening French films during the festival.
This international festival showcases drama, music, dance and Chinese opera from around the world. The arts festival has attracted International actors and theatre companies who have all performed at the event.
One of the most beautiful festivals in the world, the festival marks the last day of the new year celebrations. Dating back over 2000 years, the main part of the festival is releasing the lanterns into the night sky, usually done by children after solving a puzzle.
One of the premier music festivals in the city, Clockenflap has grown over the years from an annual gig to a full-blown international festival. Besides the international and Chinese musicians, there are also numerous galleries and artists who attend the festival to exhibit their work.
Held outdoors at the picturesque Kowloon waterfront promenade, Freespace Fest is an arts and crafts festival that is free to the public. Visitors can browse through Cantonese books and poetry, handicrafts and even an organic farmers market. There are also musical performances by local and international musicians.
The biggest festival of the year, the city is covered with red lanterns, and temples are packed with people praying for prosperity in the new year. There are elaborate markets all over the city, and delicious food on every street corner. The Hong Kong new year celebration is best known for the famous Dragon Boat races.
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