With the arrival of fall, Hong Kong is attracting tourists with its nightlife and spectacular line-up of festivals that combine Eastern and Western traditions.
Halloween is generally the biggest social event in the city, and the vibrant Lan Kwai Fong neighbourhood has been a significant hub for entertainment. With more than 100 bars and restaurants, guests can don costumes and take in a whimsical, festive atmosphere.
The brand-new Ocean Park Halloween Fest runs until Nov 3 and is designed to resemble a haunted town from the 1980s, complete with the scariest urban myths. Discovering the old walled city, haunted apartments, or ghostly hotels can put visitors' hearts to the test.
Disney Halloween Time, which takes place in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort from tomorrow to Oct 31, is a spectral festival that appeals to people of all ages. It features a parade of beloved cartoon characters with orange pumpkins, whimsical themed merchandise, and limited-edition treats.
Designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, the iconic Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance will take place from Sept 16-18. A procession of more than 300 performers will carry and manoeuvre a gigantic 67m long fire-lit dragon through the grid-like streets of the Tai Hang neighbourhood. Perfect teamwork is required to keep the dragon, which is made of pearl straws and covered in more than 12,000 incense sticks, dancing.
As part of the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sept 17, a visually festival-themed drone show will light up the horizon above Victoria Harbour to celebrate Hong Kong's vibrant spirit and unique fusion of tradition and innovation.
Other attractions include lantern carnivals and colourful festivities along Victoria Park (until Sept 18) and Lee Tung Avenue (until Oct 15).
Set against a breathtaking backdrop of Victoria Harbour, the annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival will also return to Central Harbourfront from Oct 23-27 to give foodies a chance to sample a diverse selection of wines and spirits from various countries and regions all in one place.
Also, 10 award-winning restaurants will showcase their culinary mastery in a designated gourmet area, and an exclusive cocktail lounge will serve expertly designed drinks by renowned mixologists. Visitors can also look forward to an exciting programme of spectacular music performances.
The festival is also a launchpad for "Taste Around Town", an extension of gastronomic extravaganza with special dishes, that will take place across Hong Kong in November.
Find more information at discoverhongkong.com.
