The 4 Best Parts of Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is always an amazing destination to visit, but there’s arguably no better time than during Chinese New Year, when the city truly comes alive with celebrations spanning across 23 days. As it’s based on the Lunar calendar, Chinese New Year can range from January 21 to February 20, and this year falls on February 16. 2018 is the Year of the Dog, which is one of 12 zodiac signs that have existed in Chinese culture for thousands of years.
Check out some of the best aspects of Chinese New Year 2018 in Hong Kong...
FOOD
Chinese New Year is often considered the most important time of the year for families to get together, and food is central to these family gatherings. A typical menu traditionally includes dumplings, chicken, pork and fish. As a visitor to Hong Kong, you’re able to enjoy a wide range of food options, sampling some delicious bites around the city. Our Flying Foodie, Alana Lowes, has plenty of suggestions here for you.
If you’re lucky enough to be invited into a local family home during the celebrations, you’ll be able to try something more traditional. Hongkongers stock up on Chinese New Year treats which they offer to guests in an ornate red snack box called ‘chuen hap’.
DRAGONS & LANTERNS
The city comes alive with colour and celebration throughout the Chinese New Year festivities, with the colour red playing a prominent part. Culturally, red symbolises good luck and prosperity and is the traditional lantern colour associated with Chinese New Year. To see in the Year of the Dog, why not experience Lunar New Year Lantern Carnivals and Youth Nights at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, Hong Kong Velodrome Park and Tung Ching North Park. These events are on at various times between 1-4 March 2018.
No traditional Chinese Festival would be complete without Lion Dances and Dragon Parades – and the Chinese New Year celebrations in Hong Kong are no exception! Colourful floats, lively dragons, acrobats and traditional Chinese dancers all play a part in the Hong Kong Chinese New Year Parade annually. A Lion Dance is considered an essential part of the New Year festivities, as when accompanied by drums, gongs and firecrackers, it is believed this will scare away any bad spirits and will bring good luck for the coming year. Given the symbolism, Lion Dances can be seen anytime, anywhere during the New Year celebrations – from the local markets to your hotel lobby!
FLOATS & PARADES
One of the highlights of celebrations in Hong Kong will be the International Chinese New Year Night Parade, which is traditionally held on the evening of Lunar New Year’s. Bright floats and captivating performances bring a festive energy and vibe to the city that locals and travellers alike can enjoy together. This year the parade will take place on February 16. Described as one of Hong Kong’s most anticipated annual events, the International Chinese New Year Night Parade is a must-do for any holiday traveller visiting Hong Kong during February.
FIREWORKS & FIRECRACKERS
Easily the city’s biggest and most colourful festival, Chinese New Year in Hong Kong would not be complete without plenty of fireworks and firecrackers! While personal fireworks are unable to be purchased, the Government puts on a cracking display for the city. Each year, thousands of people line both sides of the Victoria Harbour to witness Hong Kong bringing in the New Year. This year is no exception, with the Year of the Dog fireworks display set to light up the iconic Harbour on the second day of Chinese New Year, 17 February.
Ready to get amongst the action with your own Hong Kong holiday? We fly daily between Melbourne - Hong Kong, so book your flights via our website today.
