Hong Kong’s Many Festivals
Hong Kong manages to meld Eastern traditions with customs and aesthetics from the West into an incredibly intoxicating experience for the modern visitor. The modern skyscrapers, financial centers, and shopping districts are but one side of this Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic. Colonial architecture, traditional temples, mosques, and churches, and the spirit and energy of music, arts, and culture of Hong Kong’s people are another part of the equation.
This mixture of East/West and Old/New is evidenced in the variety of festivals and celebrations held in Hong Kong every year. Visitors planning to attend any of these events will find a variety of accomodations available in the region, including some fine 5 star Hong Kong hotels.
While there are some secular events, most are related to religion and cultures of the population. Arts festivals include the Man Literary Festival, the Hong Kong Arts Festival, and the Hong Kong International Film Festival.
While many people may consider the Chinese New Year the best time to party in Hong Kong, its important to note that many restaurants and shops are closed for this event. There are some establishments that remain open, though perhaps with shortened hours. Planning ahead will make it easier to enjoy this festive season.
Some of the other exciting Chinese festivals celebrated in Hong Kong include the Spring Lantern Festival, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, the Ching Ming Festival, and the Tuen Ng Festival. The Hungry Ghost Festival isn’t a public festival, but does provide the opportunity to attend special performances of traditional arts, such as Chinese opera.
Western celebrations that have been adopted by Hong Kong include Halloween and Christmas. However, it is New Year’s Eve that has really been embraced by the people. Hundreds of thousands of people celebrate in the streets and gather to watch fireworks in the Harbour.
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