Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong

There is never a bad time to visit Hong Kong.

Known as “Asia’s World City,” the destination has much to offer visitors. But for those who want to travel the city during an especially festive and memorable time, Chinese New Year is an ideal time to go.

The Year of the Dog is fast-approaching, and Hong Kong is preparing to welcome the New Year with a range of celebrations, events and festive feasts.

"Chinese New Year is one of the best times of year to visit Hong Kong," noted Hong Kong Tourism Board U.S. director Bill Flora. "The energetic and festive ambiance of the city is unmatched as Hong Kong ushers in the Year of the Dog with some of the most exciting festivals and events that can be found anywhere in the world."

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The month-long festivities will begin in February when the city will transform for a number of extravagant celebrations taking place between February 10 and March 4. (The first day of Chinese New Year is on February 16.)

Government offices, banks and public utilities are closed for Chinese New Year public holidays, but theme parks, attractions, public transport, shops and restaurants are open. Street markets and stalls are often closed on the first and second day of the New Year (February 16 and 17) but reopen on the third day. Shopping malls often offer extended hours during the holiday.

For those planning on visiting during Chinese New Year, here’s how to make the most of your time:

International Chinese New Year Parade

The parade will take place on February 16. Local and international performers come together for a night of entertainment and lively performances while thousands of spectators watch as colorful floats travel along Tsim Sha Tsui's main streets.

Hong Kong Chinese New Year Fireworks Extravaganza

If you are in Hong Kong on February 17, the fireworks will be hard to miss, literally kicking off the Year of the Dog with a bang.

The pyrotechnics display will take place over Victoria Harbour at 8 p.m., and visitors wanting the best vantage point for the event should head to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and Central Harbourfront.

READ MORE: What to Do in Hong Kong

Great European Carnival

The Central Harbourfront Event Space transforms into an amusement park in honor of the New Year for the Great European Carnival, which takes place throughout February. Visitors can take a ride on the swinging carousel, sample cuisines from around the world, try their luck at games or take in The Great Circus of Europe.

Chinese New Year Raceday

On February 18, join those flocking to the racetrack for the very first race of the Year of the Dog. Horseracing, which has been embraced by the local population, is an annual tradition and a central part of the Hong Kong New Year’s program. In addition to the races, there is live entertainment and activity booths.

Che Kung Temple

Stop in at the Che Kung Temple, which celebrates the military-commander-turned-deity, Che Kung. The affair is especially auspicious, as the deity’s birthday falls on the second day of Chinese New Year, February 17. The temple will honor Che Kung with colorful displays and spinning decorations.

Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees

If you are looking for a little good luck, head to the village of Lam Tsuen. Each Chinese New Year, the village is crowded with requests for luck and well wishes from visitors from all over the city who believe the trees bring good fortune.

READ MORE: Hong Kong Looks to Lesser-Known Attractions to Draw Visitors

Flower Markets

Visitors may notice an influx of pop-up flower markets in Victoria Park and Mongkok, as many flowers hold special meaning for Chinese New Year. For example, kumquats represent wealth while peach blossoms symbolize romance and longevity. People flock to flower stalls to pick up decorations and souvenirs for the New Year.

Festive Feasts

There are a number of foods that have auspicious meanings during this time of celebration, and people head to restaurants for special dishes during the Chinese New Year.

One such dish is Poon Choi, which is a one-pot casserole dish that is a hallmark of traditional village dining culture and served frequently during this time of year.

Cantonese foods with lucky-sounding ingredients are also popular. Try tongyuen dumplings, dried oysters (“ho is” in Cantonese) or “neen go,” a glutinous rice cake.