CHINESE NEW YEAR 2023 (The year of the Rabbit)
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S LUNAR NEW YEAR MESSAGE
Translation of the Lunar New Year message delivered by Chief Executive, Mr John Lee on 21st January 2023;
"Lunar New Year is the most important festival on the Chinese calendar. This year, we can visit the flower markets, go out for new year shopping, reunite with family and friends and extend festive greetings to one another, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the Spring Festival and joining in the festive cheer. This year welcomes the Year of the Rabbit. Adored by many, rabbits are agile and energetic. Rabbits are just like Hong Kong people, who are flexible and resilient, and constantly strive for improvement. The rabbit is, as well, a symbol of great vitality, so the Lunar New Year is seen as heralding a new start and new hope for Hong Kong. Our economy will continue to grow and our tourist attractions will be filled with visitors. My wife and I wish all Hong Kong citizens a happy, healthy and blessed Year of the Rabbit!"
Mr Lee and his wife wished all Hong Kong citizens a happy, healthy and blessed Year of the Rabbit
The CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE which normally takes place on Lunar New Year's Day will not take place owing to preparations not being able to be made owing to pandemic restrictions
The LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY which is traditionally scheduled for the second day of Lunar New Year, 23rd January 2023 will not take place. Although Covid pandemic restrictions have now been mostly relaxed there has been insufficient time to make adequate preparations for the event.
2023 LUNAR NEW YEAR FAIRS will take place at Victoria Park (Causeway Bay), Tat Tung Road (Tung Chung), Fa Hui Park (Sham Shui Po), Cheung Sha Wan Playground (Sham Shui Po), Kwun Tong Recreation Ground, Morse Park (Wong Tai Sin), Kwai Chung Sports Ground (Kwai Tsing), Sha Tsui Road Playground (Tsuen Wan), Tin Hau Temple, Fung Shui Square (Tai Po), Yuen Wo Playground (Sha Tin), Shek Wu Hui Playground (North District), Tin Hau Temple Plaza (Tuen Mun), Man Yee Playground (Sai Kung), Po Hong Park (Tseung Kwan O), Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground (Yuen Long).
The fairs will operate for seven days from 16th January until the early hours of Lunar New Year's Day, 22nd January. However, the fairs will provide only wet goods stalls for flower farmers to sell New Year flowers. There will be no dry goods stalls or fast food stalls to avoid increasing the risk of virus transmission through removing masks for eating and there will be no other activities. Most fairs open from 10am until late night.
Admission to and exit from the fairs will be monitored using innovation and technology measures and implement crowd control when necessary. Special crowd management measures will be implemented at three fairs with high patron flow, including Victoria Park (Causeway Bay), Fa Hui Park (Sham Shui Po) and Sha Tsui Road Playground (Tsuen Wan). When the footfall increases, the ticketing system will be activated, and the public may get a ticket on site or obtain an e-ticket through the mobile app which can be downloaded for free. Entry to the fair can be made with the ticket within 60 minutes after the ticket number is called.
Footfall and the waiting status of the 15 fairs will be displayed in a "Green, Amber and Red Lights" format on site. Green light means few people inside the fair and that no waiting is required, amber light indicates an increase in footfall and that waiting is required, while red light represents a large number of people awaiting admission and that a longer waiting time may be needed.
The HONG KONG WELL-WISHING FESTIVAL at Lam Tsuen, Tai Po will run from 22nd January for fifteen days until 5th February 2023. Stalls at this event will also be limited to wet goods stalls only;
http://www.lamtsuen.com/index.html
Hong Kong Jockey Club has confirmed that CHINESE NEW YEAR RACE DAY will take place at Sha Tin Racecourse on the third day of Lunar Year, 24th January 2023. For details see;
https://campaigns.hkjc.com/chinese-new-year/en/
LUNAR NEW YEAR LANTERN DISPLAYS will take place at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza where the Urban Lunar Year Lantern Display "The Luck-Bringing Rabbit - Lanterns to Celebrate the New Year" runs from 12th January to 7th February.
The display is lit from 6pm to 11pm daily. Admission is free.
The Intangible Cultural Heritage Office has collaborated with local master Hui Ka-hung to present lantern displays at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza showcasing several sprightly rabbits, energetic lions, festive food and dim sum to add festive colour and to promote the art of traditional paper crafting.
There will also be smaller scale lantern displays at North District Park, Sheung Shui and Tsuen Wan Park which run from 31st January to 7th February also with free admission and lit from 6pm to 11pm each day.
LUCKY RABBITS INSTALLATIONS
Several popular harbourside spot have been decked out with interactive Lucky Rabbit installations and festive decorations from 19th January to 5th February. The locations are;
Hong Kong Cultural Centre Viewing Deck - "A Bright New Year at Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade", 10am to 11pm daily
Wan Chai Temporary Promenade - "A Colourful Rainbow Walk", 10am to 10pm daily
Tamar Park, Admiralty - "A Sea of New Year Blossoms", 10am to 10pm daily
Additionally, an 8-metre tall, 11-metre wide rabbit will be sitting on the rooftop of Central Pier.
WONG TAI SIN TEMPLE
Chinese New Year 2023 Opening Hours;
MAIN TEMPLE GROUNDS;
21st January (Lunar New Year's Eve) 7-30am to 4-30pm then from 9pm through the night and until 9pm on 22nd January (First day of Lunar New Year).
23rd January (Second Day of Lunar New Year) to 4th February (Fouteenth Day of Lunar Year - 7-30am to 6pm daily
5th February (Fifteenth Day of Lunar New Year) - 7-30am to 10pm (last entry 9pm)
TAI SUI YUENCHEN HALL;
Closed on 21st and 22nd January. Open 23rd January to 5th February 8am to 7pm daily.
FORTUNE PALACE;
21st January - 8am to 4-30pm
22nd January - 8am to 9pm
23rd January to 4th February - 8am to 6pm daily
5th February - 8am to 9-30pm
CHE KUNG TEMPLE, SHA TIN;
CHE KUNG FESTIVAL, CHUI TIN STREET SOCCER PITCH, SHA TIN - 19th January to 5th February 2023. Opening hours;
19th & 20th January - 8am to 6pm
21st January (Lunar New Year's Eve) 8am to 6pm and 11pm through to 6pm on 22nd January (Lunar New Year's Day)
23rd January - (Second Day of Lunar New Year) 8am to 6pm and 11pm through to 6pm 24th January (Third Day of Lunar New Year)
25th January to 5th February - 8am to 6pm daily
MTR AND LIGHT RAIL SERVICE
MTR will provide an overnight service on Lunar New Year's Eve on all lines except Airport Express and Disneyland Resort lines and East Rail journeys to and from Lok Ma Chau. Service frequency on the Island Line, Kwun Tong Line and Tsuen Wan Line will be increased from 8pm on Lunar New Year's Eve.
Light Rail routes 505, 507, 610, 614P, 615P, 706 and 751 will also run overnight on Lunar New Year's Eve.
CROWD SAFETY MEASURES AND SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES - See;
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202301/19/P2023011900680.htm
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
CHINESE NEW YEAR 2022 (The year of the Tiger)
Advance information - the LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY scheduled to take place on 2nd February 2022 has been cancelled owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 2022 LUNAR NEW YEAR FAIRS at at Victoria Park (Causeway Bay), Tat Tung Road (Tung Chung), Fa Hui Park (Sham Shui Po), Cheung Sha Wan Playground (Sham Shui Po), Kwun Tong Recreation Ground, Morse Park (Wong Tai Sin), Kwai Chung Sports Ground (Kwai Tsing), Sha Tsui Road Playground (Tsuen Wan), Tin Hau Temple, Fung Shui Square (Tai Po), Shek Wu Hui Playground (North District), Tin Hau Temple Plaza (Tuen Mun), Man Yee Playground (Sai Kung), Po Hong Park (Tseung Kwan O), Yuen Wo Playground (Sha Tin), Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground (Yuen Long) and the Fong Ma Po New Year Fair at Lam Tsuen, Tai Po have been cancelled.
A "CNY HOLIDAY PARK" has been planned for West Kowloon Waterfront Park. However it is not known at this stage whether this will go ahead in view of the latest pandemic situation
On Lunar New Year's Eve, 31st January, MTR will operate normal operating hours with enhanced services during peak hours on all lines except Airport Express and Disneyland Resort lines but will not run overnight services.
Hong Kong Jockey Club has announced that the LUNAR NEW YEAR RACES which take place at Sha Tin Racecourse on the third day of Lunar Year, 3rd February 2022 will be held behind closed doors and only staff members, club officials, licensed personnel and persons essential to the conduct of the races will be admitted. The public, owners, members and media personnel will not be admitted. Race meetings on January 23rd (Sha Tin), January 26th (Happy Valley) and January 30th (Sha Tin) will also be held behind closed doors
The CHE KUNG FESTIVAL FAIR, scheduled to take place at Chui Tin Street Soccer Pitch in Sha Tin from 29th January to 15th February 2022 has been cancelled.
Opening hours and special arrangements for visitors to CHE KUNG TEMPLE in Sha Tin have been announced by the Chinese Temples Committee, see;
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202201/28/P2022012800346.htm
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
CHINESE NEW YEAR 2021 (The Year of the Ox)
Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and consequent social distancing measures most of the usual Chinese New Year events have been cancelled including Lunar New Year Fairs, Chinese New Year Night Parade, Chinese New Year Fireworks Display, Lantern Carnivals and Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival. Points of sale at the 15 sites originally designated for the Lunar New Year fairs will be established for the sale of New Year flowers and potted plants at the same venue. The number of stalls at the sites will be reduced by approximately half. There will be no public admission to the Chinese New Year Race Meeting at Sha Tin on Sunday 14th February. Additionally, MTR will not operate an all-night train service during the Chinese New Year period.
2021 Lunar New Year message delivered by Hong Kong's Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam;
(translation) "A new year represents new beginnings. Having gone through an exceptionally challenging year, we all look forward to a fresh start in the new year. This year, because of the epidemic, the Government urges members of the public to reduce gatherings and enjoy a quiet Spring Festival. Yet, with technology bringing people closer together, we can extend festive greetings to relatives and friends living here and abroad and express our care for senior family members and citizens through various means.
This year is the Year of the Ox. The ox is a symbol of diligence and perseverance. I believe that as long as we stand united and work together with perseverance, Hong Kong can certainly rise above all challenges, emerge stronger and scale new heights.
I wish you all a harmonious, auspicious and healthy Year of the Ox."
CHINESE NEW YEAR 2020 (The Year of the Rat)
THIS PAGE ALSO CONTAINS INFORMATION FROM CHINESE NEW YEAR 2019 EVENTS AND IS BEING UPDATED WITH INFORMATION RELATING TO CHINESE NEW YEAR 2020 EVENTS AS AND WHEN MADE AVAILABLE, IT IS EXPECTED THAT SOME TRADITIONAL EVENTS MAY NOT TAKE PLACE OR MAY TAKE ON A DIFFERENT FORMAT OR BE CURTAILED OWING TO PUBLIC SAFETY CONCERNS RELATING TO GOVERNMENT PROTESTS. IT HAS BEEN CONFIRMED THAT THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY SCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY 26th JANUARY AT VICTORIA HARBOUR HAS BEEN CANCELLED AND THE CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE SCHEDULED FOR 25th JANUARY (CHINESE NEW YEAR'S DAY) HAS BEEN CANCELLED AND A FOUR DAY CARNIVAL AT WEST KOWLOON CULTURAL DISTRICT WHICH WAS INTENDED TO HAVE REPLACED IT HAS ALSO BEEN CANCELLED. ADDITIONALLY, THE LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT WHICH WAS TO HAVE TAKEN PLACE ON 26th JANUARY HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
IN RESPONSE TO THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT'S ENACTMENT OF EMERGENCY RESPONSE LEVEL FOR THE SEVERE RESPIRATORY DISEASE ASSOCIATED WITH A NOVEL INFECTIOUS AGENT (WUHAN PNEUMONIA) BOTH HONG KONG DISNEYLAND AND OCEAN PARK HONG KONG HAVE ANNOUNCED THESE VENUES WILL BE CLOSED FROM SUNDAY 26th JANUARY 2020 UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE PUBLIC (OTHER THAN CUSTOMERS WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS FOR DINING IN THE RACECOURSE RESTAURANTS) WILL NOT BE ADMITTED TO THE CHINESE NEW YEAR RACEDAY MEETING ON 27th JANUARY AT SHA TIN RACECOURSE AND THE SAME ARRANGEMENTS WILL APPLY FOR ALL FUTURE RACE MEETINGS AT SHA TIN AND HAPPY VALLEY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
The Lunar New Year Lantern Carnivals 2020 programme which was scheduled to take place on dates between 6th and 9th February 2020 at Tung Chung North Park, Wai Man Road Playground / Sai Kung Waterfront Park and Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza has been cancelled as a precaution to prevent spread of the Wuhan coronavirus.
Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, delivered a 2019 Lunar New Year message from Government House on Chinese New Year's Eve. "The Lunar New Year is an important festival for Chinese people. It is also a time for families to get together. When the Lunar New Year approaches, many people will do their festive shopping. I also took a break from my busy schedule and went to Sheung Wan to buy some dried seafood and flowers. I chatted with shop owners and staff, and took the chance to extend early New Year greetings to members of the public and exchange good wishes with them. This year is the Year of the Pig. I wish you all a healthy and prosperous year ahead."
Partnering with Hong Kong brand "Chocolate Rain" Hong Kong Tourism Board's float for the 2018 Chinese New Year Night Parade was modelled on Hong Kong's iconic "ding ding" tram. Image: Hong Kong Tourism Board
Almost 350 local youngsters acted as "Lucky Buddies" handing out festive gift packs to spectators at the 2017 Chinese New Year Night Parade. Image: Hong Kong Tourism Board
2020 Chinese New Year Celebrations in Hong Kong for the Year of the Rat run from 19th January to 9th February 2020.
SPECIAL EVENTS INCLUDE;
LUNAR NEW YEAR FAIR (FLOWER MARKETS) of which the largest and most popular are at Victoria Park, Causeway Bay and Fa Hui Park, Sham Shui Po. Normally about half the stalls at these fairs sell colourful flowers and plants, whilst other stalls sell decorations, foods and gadgets but for the 2020 fairs the number of stalls has been reduced and are restricted to sale of flowers and food products.The fairs operate from 8am to midnight,19th January to 23rd January and from 8am on 24th January through to 3am on 25th January (Lunar New Year's Day) extended. Admission is free. Shops at the year-round Mong Kok flower market, a popular tourist attraction at Prince Edward Road West and Flower Market Road open 24 hours a day on the two days immediately before Lunar New Year's Day. Other Lunar Year Fairs take place on the same days and times. Full list of venues;
Victoria Park, Causeway Bay
Fa Hui Park, Sham Shui Po
Tat Tung Road Garden, Tung Chung
Cheung Sha Wan Playground, Sham Shui Po
Morse Park, Wong Tai Sin
Kwun Tong Recreation Ground, Kwun Tong
Kwai Chung Sports Ground, Kwai Tsing
Sha Tsui Road Playground, Tsuen Wan
Tin Hau Temple Plaza, Tuen Mun
Tung Tau Industrial Area Playgroung, Yuen Long
Shek Wui Hu Playground, Sheung Shui
Tin Hau Temple Fung Shui Square, Tai Po
Yuen Wo Playground, Sha Tin
Man Yee Playground, Sai Kung
Po Hong Park, Tseung Kwan O
2019 CATHAY PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE (5th February 2019) CANCELLED FOR 2020;
THE CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE WILL NOT TAKE PLACE IN 2020. IT IS BEING REPLACED BY THE 2020 CATHAY PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL CHINESE NEW YEAR CARNIVAL. THE CARNIVAL WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 2pm TO 8pm ON 25th JANUARY, 2pm TO 5pm ON 26th JANUARY AND 2pm TO 8pm ON 27th and 28th JANUARY. DAILY FROM 25th TO 28th JANUARY 2020 AT WEST KOWLOON CULTURAL DISTRICT OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE. ADMISSION FREE. FULL DETAILS TO BE ADVISED. PRELIMINARY DETAILS EVENT CANCELLED;
2020 CATHAY PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL CHINESE NEW YEAR CARNIVAL; CANCELLED
INFORMATION BELOW RELATES TO THE 2019 NIGHT PARADE;
Prior to the parade there will be a pre-parade street party with procession and roving performers along the parade route from 6pm. Local young musicians will perform live music at ten music zones and there will be dance troupes, magic shows and clowns. 350 youngsters acting as "Lucky Buddies" will distribute 13,000 festive gift packs containing food, drinks and small gifts to spectators. The parade, sponsored by Cathay Pacific for the 21st consecutive year, will leave Hong Kong Cultural Centre at 8pm and will enter Canton Road at about 8-30pm, Haiphong Road at 8-50pm, Nathan Road at 9pm and finish outside the Hong Kong Sheraton Hotel and Towers at 9-45pm.
Tickets for the spectator stands go on sale at 10am on Saturday 26th January 2019 at Hong Kong Tourism Board Kowloon Visitor Centre at Star Ferry Concourse, Tsim Sha Tsui on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are priced at HK$300, HK$450 and HK$480 and each person can purchase a maximum of 4 tickets. Visitors will be given a numbered tag to purchase tickets at a designated time on the same day.
2019 parade route map
The parade is expected to attract about 150,000 spectators. The parade will showcase nine floats, nine international troupes and eleven local troupes;
NINE FLOATS 2018 (2019 floats to be advised): Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Ltd, China National Tourism Administration, Hong Kong Disneyland, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Macao Government Tourism Office, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Quality Tourism Services Association, Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Hong Kong Tourism Board's float for the 2018 Chinese New Year Night Parade was modelled on Hong Kong's iconic "ding ding" tram. "Hong Kong Tourism Envoy" Jackson Wang joined HKTB's float for the first time to greet the crowd.
NINE INTERNATIONAL PERFORMING GROUPS (2018): Hainan Women's Crystal Troupe (China), Shantou Acrobatic Troupe (China), Parisian Street Cabaret (France), Kyoto Intercollegiate Festa Kyouen-Sodefure (Japan), Sanrio Family (Japan), Kakao Friends (Korea), Street Circus (The Netherlands), American String Band from Philadelphia (USA), Seattle Sea Girls (USA).
American String Band from Philadelphia
ELEVEN LOCAL PERFORMING TROUPES (2018): Avon Lee International Magic, Belly Princess Liina Cheung Dance Company, BLS Dance Production, Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts Dragon and Lion Dance Association, Hong Kong Cheung Keung Martial Arts Association and Hong Kong Yang Jiang Volunteer Association, Hong Kong Rope Skipping Academy, Infinity Dance Studio, Jean M Wong School of Ballet, Refiner. Yi Ming. The Moving Drums, The Pegasus Vanguard, Triforce.
Chinese Martial Arts and Lion Dragon Association
* Some 2019 floats will be on display at Lam Tsuen, Tai Po from the second day of Chinese New Year and at other locations on other dates (to be advised).
HONG KONG WELL-WISHING FESTIVAL (25th January to 9th February 2020)
The 2020 festival takes place during 25th January to 9th February 2020 from 8-45am to 6-30pm daily at Lam Tsuen near Tai Po in the New Territories. This is the location of the famous Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees where visitors can make a wish and enjoy the festival. Festival events include;
Food Carnival with local snacks, seafood specialities and traditional Hakka food.
Traditional Joss Paper throwing. Wishes are written on small placards which are attached to oranges and tossed into a wishing tree. According to tradition only wishes which hang on the branches without falling off come true.
Wishing Lanterns Lighting Ceremony. Based on traditional custom, people write their wishes on wishing lanterns and float them onto a wishing pool hoping for best fortune in the forth-coming years.
Dawn Market, every Saturday and Sunday with home grown agricultural products for sale
Wish Locks. To symbolize a love commitment towards each other, lovers write their names on padlocks which are affixed to fences or bridges in Europe, Japan, Korea and many other countries. Lam Tsuen Wishing Square presents wooden wish locks where people can write messages of love to relatives, friends and lovers.
Well-Wishing Festival Celebration Night with meal and stage performances by Hong Kong artists, 8th February 2020
http://www.lamtsuen.com/index.html
THE 2020 LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY WHICH WAS TO HAVE TAKEN PLACE ON SUNDAY 26th JANUARY HAS BEEN CANCELLED OWING TO CONCERNS OVER PUBLIC SAFETY INFORMATION BELOW RELATES TO THE 2019 LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY
2019 LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY
The 2019 fireworks display will take place at Victoria Harbour on the second day of Lunar New Year at 8pm on Wednesday 6th February 2019.
A total of 23,888 firing shells will be discharged in the display from three barges in a 23-minute display consisting of eight scenes.
Highlights of the fireworks display include the display of the number "8" and golden ingots in the first scene to symbolise a prosperous year to come, as well as the display of pig noses and Saturn rings alongside the theme song of local comics character McDull in the second scene, wishing people all the best in the Year of the Pig. Strobes and waterfall-like effects in the fourth scene, "When I fall in love", will create a romantic ambience, sending wishes to all lovers for the Valentine's Day that follows the Lunar New Year. The fireworks display will reach its climax in the last scene with the firing of 10 seven-inch shells featuring brocade crowns and purple pistils simultaneously in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. 
Image of the first scene
Image of the final scene
The display can be seen from many vantage points on both sides of the harbour including Tsim Sha Tsui, the Mid-levels, Central, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay.
The event is co-ordinated by the Home Affairs Bureau and sponsored by Shimao Group and supported by the Friends of Hong Kong Association.
Spectators can tune in to Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) Radio 4 (FM 97.6 to 98.9) for synchronised music.
The 2018 Lunar New Year Fireworks Display which was to have been held on the second day of Chinese New Year, Saturday 17th February was cancelled as a mark of respect to the deceased and families of a serious bus accident which occurred on 10th February 2019.
The 2017 display was watched by and estimated 241,900 spectators in Kowloon and 44,600 on Hong Kong Island.
CHINESE NEW YEAR RACE DAY - NO PUBLIC ADMISSION. HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE PUBLIC (OTHER THAN CUSTOMERS WITH ADVANCE RESERVATIONS FOR DINING IN THE RACECOURSE RESTAURANTS) WILL NOT BE ADMITTED TO THE CHINESE NEW YEAR RACEDAY MEETING ON 27th JANUARY AT SHA TIN RACECOURSE AND THE SAME ARRANGEMENTS WILL APPLY FOR ALL FUTURE RACE MEETINGS AT SHA TIN AND HAPPY VALLEY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
On Monday 27th January 2020 the third day of Chinese New Year racing fans can try and get the new year off to a prosperous start amidst the frenetic atmosphere of Chinese New Year Race Day at Sha Tin Racecourse, where an attendance of about 90,000 is expected. Admission is from 10-30am, with racing from 12-30pm to 6pm. Admission to the public enclosure is HK$10. On production of valid travel documents bona-fide tourists can obtain a Tourist Badge for HK$130 allowing entry to the Hong Kong Jockey Club Members' Enclosure. Entertainment includes a spectacular opening variety show in the parade ring with performances by popular local TV stars, a Fortune Tips Forum with a fung shui master and lion and dragon dance performances. A Lunar New Year gift will be given free to all spectators on entry to the racecourse. In addition to normal public transport, free shuttle buses will operate to the racecourse from Ching Tak Street, Wong Tai Sin (Wong Tai Sin MTR Station Exit D2) from 10-15am to 2-45pm.
The 2019 Chinese New Year Race Day attracted an attendance of over 90,000 spectators at Sha Tin Racecourse with a further 6,000 attendance for cross-betting and viewing on screen at Happy Valley Racecourse.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP 2020 - 26th JANUARY 2020 (provisional) - CANCELLED THE LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP 2020 WAS TO TAKE PLACE ON 26th JANUARY 2020 AT MONG KOK STADIUM AND WAS TO HAVE BEEN COMPETED BETWEEN TWO LOCAL TEAMS, THE HONG KONG LEAGUE XI AND THE HONG KONG REPRESENTATIVE XI WITH NO OVERSEAS TEAMS PARTICIPATING. FURTHER DETAILS TO BE ADVISED CANCELLED
INFORMATION BELOW RELATES TO THE 2019 TOURNAMENT;
LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP 2019 (5th and 7th February 2019);
The Lunar New Year Cup, organised by Hong Kong Football Association, dates back to 1948.
The 2019 event has new sponsors, Tonghai Financial and is named "Tonghai Financial Chinese New Year Cup 2019". Four teams will participate in the tournament which is being held at Hong Kong Stadium: Sagan Tosu (Japan), Shandong Luneng Taishan (China), Auckland City (New Zealand) and HK CNY Selection XI. On Chinese New Year's Day, 5th February Auckland City will play Shandong Luneng at 4pm followed by Sagan Tosu v HK CNY Selection XI at 6-15pm. The third place play-off and the final will take place two days later on 7th February at 4pm and 6-15pm with the winning team receiving a cheque for USD50,000. Tickets will be priced at HK$480 and HK$280 and will cover both match days. Concessionary tickets for seniors and students will be priced at HK$180. The organisers, RedMr Sports and Hong Kong Football Association are expecting to sell at least 20,000 tickets for the tournament. For further details and ticket selling arrangements see;
https://www.hkfa.com/en/load_page/404
LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP 2019 RESULTS;
Auckland City 1 Shandong Luneng Tiashan 2
Sagan Tosu 4 HK CNY Select XI 2 (after extra time. Score after 90 mins 1-1)
Third Place Play-off;
HK CNY Select XI 1 Auckland City 0
Final;
Sagan Tosu 1 Shandong Luneng Tiashan 3
The LUNAR NEW YEAR CUP 2018 was held at Mongkok Stadium on Monday 19th February (the fourth day of Chinese New Year) and features both women's and men's Hong Kong Representative teams. At 1-15pm Hong Kong Women's Representative Team played Armed Police Force of Nepal (Women) followed at 4pm by Hong Kong Representative Team v Hong Kong League XI. Tickets were priced at HK$100 for adults and HK$30 for child and senior.
The 2017 Nike Lunar New Year Cup tournament took place on 28th and 31st January at Hong Kong Stadium and featured local team, Kitchee and overseas teams, Auckland City (New Zealand), FC Seoul (South Korea) and SCG Muang Thong United (Thailand).
The knockout stage took place on 28th January when Auckland City beat FC Seoul 1-0 and Kitchee defeated SCG Muang Thong 5-4 on penalties after the score finished 1-1 at the end of normal time. The losers played off for third place on 31st January with Muang Thong beating Seoul 1-0 whilst Kitchee and Auckland City contested the final with Auckland winning 1-0.
TOURIST MARKETS;
The following tourist markets remain open throughout Chinese New Year although many shops/stalls will be closed for between one and three days and operate reduced hours during the first three days of Chinese New Year;
Apliu Street Flea Market
Mong Kok Flower Market (7am to 7pm)
Gold Fish Market (10-30am to 10pm)
Jade Market (10am to 5pm)
Temple Street Night Market (4pm to midnight)
Ladies Market (Noon - 11-30pm)
Jardine's Bazaar and Jardine's Crescent
Li Yuen Street East and Li Yuen Street West ("The Lanes of Central")
Western Market (10am to midnight)
Stanley Market
SHOPS
Major shopping malls, department stores and shops, convenience stores and supermarkets remain open remain open throughout the Chinese New Year period. Sogo Department Store in Causeway Bay opens from 1pm to 10pm on the first day of Chinese New Year. Some malls, including Times Square, will operate extended shopping hours prior to and on the first two days of Chinese New Year and all major shopping malls have festive decorations. Some shops may open later than usual on Chinese New Year's Day. However, many small local shops close on Chinese New Year's Day and some also close on the following two days.
SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS - Expected to take place as usual at 8pm nightly throughout Chinese New Year period,
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND - CLOSED - In response to the Hong Kong Government’s enactment of Emergency Response Level for the severe respiratory disease associated with a novel infectious agent (Wuhan pneumonia), Hong Kong Disneyland will be closed from Sunday 26th January 2020 until further notice.
However, the three Disneyland Resort hotels will remain open.
Hong Kong Disneyland's opening hours during 2020 Chinese New Year - 10am to 8pm 25th to 28th January, 10am to 7-30pm 29th to 31st January 2020;
https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/
Tickets - Standard admission tickets are valid. Normal ticket prices apply.
During Chinese New Year on 12th February 2013, a new daily attendance record was set at Hong Kong Disneyland when 44,872 visitors visited the park.
OCEAN PARK - CLOSED - In response to the Hong Kong Government’s enactment of Emergency Response Level for the severe respiratory disease associated with a novel infectious agent (Wuhan pneumonia), Ocean Park Hong Kong will be closed from Sunday 26th January 2020 until further notice.
However, the Marriott Ocean Park Hotel will remain open.
Opening hours - 10am to 10pm. General Day Admission includes admission to seasonal attraction Gala of Lights. Night only tickets for admission from 6-30pm for Gala of Lights also available'
https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en
Note - Ocean Park may suspend ticket sales at certain times if the attendance inside the park at any one time is near to the park's 36,600 capacity.
NGONG PING 360 - CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Ngong Ping 360 cable car operates extended hours 9am to 8pm from 25th to 28th January and 9-30am to 6pm from 29th to 31st January 2020;
sky100 HONG KONG OBSERVATION DECK - From 21st January to 27th February 2020 sky100 presents its "Twinkle Winter in the Sky" Chinese New Year Celebration activities. Observation deck opening hours 10am to 8-30pm (last entry 8pm). For further details see;
https://sky100.com.hk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/sky100-2020-CNY-Trade-Factsheet_EN.pdf
.
2020 LUNAR NEW YEAR LANTERN DISPLAYS AND CARNIVALS
The Lunar New Year Lantern Carnivals 2020 programme which was scheduled to take place on dates between 6th and 9th February 2020 at Tung Chung North Park, Wai Man Road Playground / Sai Kung Waterfront Park and Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza has been cancelled as a precaution to prevent spread of the Wuhan coronavirus.
A thematic Lantern Display "Flying High with the Golden Dragon" takes place at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza from 17th January to 9th February 2020 from 6pm to 11pm. Admission is free.
Exhibit from the 2019 Lunar New Year Lantern Display "Glittering Peacocks in Full Bloom" at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza
An exhibition on Traditional Paper Crafting, part of Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage, takes place at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza from 4th to 9th February 2020 from 6pm to 11pm. Admission is free.
Lunar New Year Carnivals include Chinese song and dance performances, crafts demonstrations and roving performance (further details to be advised) take place on different dates at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza. and in Tung Chung and Sai Kung at Tung Chung North Park and Wai Man Road Playground, Sai Kung and Sai Kung Waterfront Park.
At all three carnivals folk craft masters from Guangdong, Macao and Hong Kong will give demonstrations on Xiguan copperware making, Luxi murals, juci (ceramic repair), guqin making and dough figurine crafting. The Hubei Arts Troupe, supported by the Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs Office of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, will also showcase spectacular ethnic songs, dance and martial arts performances.
The Hubei Arts Troupe showcased spectacular ethnic songs, dance and martial arts performances at the three lantern carnivals in 2019
Lantern Carnival Dates and Details
Urban Lunar New Year Lantern Carnival 2020 - CANCELLED = Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, Tsim Sha Tsui - Carnival Night Saturday 8th February 2020, 7-30pm to 10pm. The carnival at the HKCC Piazza, themed "Date under the Moon, and Love is all around" features a variety of music and dance performances, a circus show, anecdotes and a lantern riddle quiz corner. Festive lanterns are also on display to add a joyful ambience to the Lunar New Year celebrations. For full 2019 programme details see;
https://www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/eo/common/images/2019/09/nylc.jpg
Youth Night Friday 7th February 2020, 7-30pm to 9-30pm.
The 2019 lantern display at Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza featured palace lanterns and a merry-go-round lantern
New Territories East Lunar New Year Carnival 2020 - CANCELLED - Wai Man Road Playground and Sai Kung Waterfront Park, Sai Kung- Carnival Night, Sunday 9th February 2020, 7-30pm to 9-30pm. Programme details to be advised.
Youth Night Friday 8th February 2020, 7-30pm to 10pm.
Lantern Display - Tuesday 4th to Sunday 9th February 2020.
New Territories West Lunar New Year Carnival 2020 - CANCELLED - Tung Chung North Park - Carnival Night Friday 7th February 2020 7-30pm to 10pm. Programme details to be advised.
Youth Night Sunday Thursday 6th February 2020. 7-30pm to 9-30pm.
Lantern Display - Tuesday 4th to Sunday 9th February 2020
Admission to all carnivals and lantern displays is free.
TEMPLES
Large numbers of worshippers are expected at temples throughout the territory during the Lunar New Year Period. At two of the busiest temples, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and Che Kung Temple special crowd control and traffic measures will be implemented. Details of opening hours at popular tourist temples are;
SIK SIK YUEN WONG TAI SIN TEMPLE (except the Tai Shui Yuenchen Hall) is open from 7am on Chinese New Year's Eve, 24th January 2020 until 5-30pm when it will close until 9pm. When it reopens at 9pm it will remain open throughout the night and close at 6-30pm on Chinese New Year's Day, 25th January. Visitors wishing to be present at the beginning of the Year of the Rat will be able to wait in the space in front of the temple's main altar, which can accommodate 1,000 people, for two worshipping slots at 11pm and midnight. However, the usual areas for shaking fortune sticks, kneeling and leaving offerings will be closed. On 26th and 27th January, the temple opening hours will be 7am to 6-30pm.
The Tai Shui Yuenchen Hall at Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is closed on 24h & 25th January but will open from 8am to 5pm on 6th and 7th January 2019.
Crowd safety management measures will be put into force from 6pm on 24th January to 7pm on the following day, and daily between 7am and 7pm from 26th to 28th January and on 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th February. Police will set up queuing areas at Wong Tai Sin Temple Court, Wong Tai Sin Square, and northern pavement of Lung Cheung Road. Should the temple be overcrowded, a “tidal flow system” will be carried out and police officers will direct worshippers to enter the temple in groups. Worshippers are urged to follow the advice given by police officers and take extra care of their personal belongings as well as their young children and elderly companions and in handling joss stick.
CHE KUNG TEMPLE will open from 7am 24th January, until to 6pm, when it will close. The temple will reopen at 11pm and remain open until 6pm on 25th January. On 26th January the temple will open at 7am until 6pm and reopen from 11pm through to 6pm on 27th January. On 28th January, opening hours are 7am to 5-30pm.
MAN MO TEMPLE on Hollywood Road will open at 7am on Chinese New Year's Eve, 24th January and remain open until 7pm on 25th January. On 26th and 27th January, the temple will open from 7am to 6pm.
MUSEUMS
The following museums and venues, operated by the Hong Kong Government's Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will close at 5pm on Chinese New Year's Eve, 24th January 2020 and will be closed on the first two days of Chinese New Year, 25th & 26th January 2020;
Hong Kong Museum of History
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Hong Kong Museum of Art
Hong Kong Space Museum
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Hong Kong Railway Museum
Oi!
Sam Tung Uk Museum
Sheung Yiu Folk Museum
Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery
Hong Kong Film Archive
Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre*
Hong Kong Science Museum
Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum
Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum
Law Uk Folk Museum
* Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre will also remain closed on the third day of Chinese New Year, 27th January 2020
Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence is closed for repair and renovation
Hong Kong Maritime Museum is closed on 25th & 26th January, the first two days of Chinese New Year. It closes at 4pm on Chinese New Year's Eve, 24th January and is open from 10am to 7pm on 27th & 28th January 2020.
The following museums/galleries are closed on the first three days of Chinese New Year, 25th, 26th & 27th January 2020;
Art Museum, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (also closed on 28th January)
Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum
Lantau Link Visitor Centre & Exhibition Centre (The Lantau Link View Point is open from 7-30am to 10-30pm on 24th & 28th January and from 7am to 1-30am (the following day) on 25th, 26th & 27th January)
Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
Airport Core Programme Exhibition Centre
Hong Kong Housing Authority Exhibition Centre (also closed 24th January)
Hong Kong Arts Centre Pao Galleries (open 1pm to 6pm on 24th January)
Police Museum
Hong Kong News-Expo
Hong Kong Racing Museum is open as usual throughout the Chinese New Year period
HERITAGE CENTRES
Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre and Ping Shan Tang Clan Gallery cum Heritage Trail Visitor Centre will close at 5pm on 24th January 2020. On 25th and 26th January (the first two days of Lunar New Year) both heritage centres will be closed. On 27th and 28th January (the third and fourth day of Lunar New Year) Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre will open from 10am to 7pm and Ping Shan Tang Clan Gallery cum Heritage Trail Visitor Centre will open from 10am to 5pm.
.
VISITOR SERVICES
On 25th & 26th January 2020, the operating hours of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) Visitor Hotline (852) 2508 1234 will be extended from 6pm to 9pm (services during the extended operating hours are available in Cantonese, English and Putonghua only).
During the Chinese New Year holiday, the following HKTB Visitor Centres will continue to operate normal hours;
Buffer Halls A and B, Arrivals Level, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport – 8am to 9pm daily
Lo Wu Arrival Hall, 2/F, Lo Wu Terminal Building – 8am to 4pm daily
Star Ferry Concourse, Tsim Sha Tsui – 8am to 8pm daily
The Peak Piazza – 9am to 9pm daily
PUBLIC LIBRARIES
All public libraries will be closed at 5pm on Lunar New Year's Eve, 24th January 2020.. All libraries will be closed from 25th to 27th January. The opening hours of all public libraries on 28th January will be the same as those for public holidays.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
2020 CROSS-BOUNDARY PASSENGER TRAFFIC ESTIMATES AND ARRANGEMENTS
Hong Kong's Immigration Department estimates that around 5.94 million passengers (including Hong Kong residents and visitors) will pass through its sea, land and air control points during the Lunar New Year festive period. from 24th to 31st January 2020. Among them, about 74%, or around 4.42 million passengers, will pass through land boundary control points. The number of outbound and inbound passengers using land boundary control points will be relatively higher on 26th January (Sunday) and 28th January (Tuesday) with around 367,000 and 451,000 passengers respectively.
The Immigration Department estimates that there will be around 1.38 million passengers, with a daily average of about 196,000 passengers, travelling via Lo Wu Control Point during the festive period. Also, the daily average forecast of the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and Shenzhen Bay control points will be about 106,000 and 98,000 passengers respectively.
The Immigration Department, the Police, the Customs and Excise Department and the MTR Corporation Limited will set up a joint command centre at Lo Wu Control Point whereas passenger conditions will be closely monitored to ensure smooth passenger traffic flow. Moreover, the Immigration Department will upload daily passenger statistics for the above festive period to its website for public reference;
https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/index.html
For travellers making journeys to the Mainland, the Immigration Department reminds them to carry their proof of identity and valid travel documents for crossing the boundary. Hong Kong residents should also check the validity of their Home Visit Permits. Non-permanent residents must carry their valid smart identity card as well as their Document of Identity for Visa Purposes or valid travel document.
Holders of the acknowledgement receipt issued due to reported loss or replacement of their Hong Kong identity cards, or children under 11 years old who hold Hong Kong identity cards, should carry a valid travel document or Re-entry Permit.
Over 700 e-Channels have been installed at various control points. Eligible Mainland holders of the electronic Exit-entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao (e-EEP) can enrol for the e-Channel service by using their e-EEP and undergoing the enrolment process at a traditional entry counter on their first visit to Hong Kong. Eligible Mainland visitors who have renewed their e-EEP have to go through the aforesaid enrolment process again before they can use the e-Channel.
Hong Kong residents who require assistance while travelling outside Hong Kong may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the ImmD at (852) 1868.
2020 SPECIAL TRAFFIC/TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS;
KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES;
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202001/23/P2020012300566.htm
Local bus operators traditionally decorate one or two buses in festive livery to celebrate Chinese New Year. Above is a Citybus "Year of the Rooster" bus from 2017
2020 PUBLIC TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE HONG KONG PORT OF HONG KONG - ZHUHAI - MACAO BRIDGE DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR PERIOD
(DETAILS TO BE ADVISED)
POSTAL SERVICES
All post offices will be closed on the first four days of Chinese New Year from 25th to 28th January 2020, with the exception of the General Post Office at 2 Connaught Place, Central and Airport Post Office, which will open on 28th January. The business hours of these two post offices will be from noon to 5pm and 10am to 3pm respectively.
On 25th January, the first day of Lunar New Year, one mail collection will be made for the posting boxes of the General Post Office, Kowloon Central Post Office and Tsim Sha Tsui Post Office. On 28th January , one mail collection will be made for the posting boxes of the General Post Office and the Airport Post Office.
PUBLIC PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS
All Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) parks and playgrounds will remain open during the Lunar New Year holiday. Leisure Link Internet and telephone reservation services will also operate as usual throughout the holidays.
GOVERNMENT RECREATION AND SPORTS FACILITIES
Sports centres, various fee-charging land-based facilities, swimming pools and water sports centres will be closed during the first three days of the Lunar New Year, 25th to 27th January 2020. For public convenience, some sports centres, turf pitches, squash courts, tennis courts, the archery range at Ngau Chi Wan Park, the indoor bowling greens at Island East Sports Centre, the Green Education and Resources Centre at Kowloon Park and Tuen Mun Recreation and Sports Centre and Queen Elizabeth Stadium will reopen on the third day of the Lunar New Year (7th February)
Services at gazetted beaches will be suspended. Stadia and all sports grounds will be closed unless advance bookings have been made.
Holiday camps will be closed during the first three days of the Lunar New Year and lodging will not be provided on Lunar New Year's Eve, 24th January 2020.
Leisure Link booking counters at venues will not operate when the venues are closed. For venues scheduled to reopen on the third day of the Lunar New Year, their Leisure Link booking counters will also resume operation from the same day.
LCSD PERFORMANCE VENUES AND URBTIX OUTLETS
Details of opening hours of Leisure and Cultural Services Department and URBTIX ticketing outlet hours during 2020 Chinese New Year can be found at the link below;
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202001/10/P2020010900390.htm