The New Year countdown is around the corner! And Hong Kong has plenty to offer for those of you staying in town for the festive season.

Don’t miss the 2,500 pandas disseminated across iconic locations to raise awareness about panda conservation, as well as world-renowned illusionist Franz Harary who is bringing his spectacular illusions and magic creations to Hong Kong for the very first time.

For an exotic and interactive experience, enjoy the Sumatran rainforests created by ALAN (Artists Who Love Animals and Nature).

The Hong Kong Palace Museum will embark you on a journey between the Forbidden City and the Palace of Versailles with 150 treasures from the two World Heritage Sites.

Enjoy your Cultural Festive Season!

EVENTS IN FOCUS

THE SNOWMAN AND THE BEAR
#children #music

You will immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit as City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong performs the enchanting scores of The Snowman & The Bear with the animated films on the big screen. A truly joyous and festive atmosphere inspired by memorable melodies, touching songs, heartwarming stories and Christmas animations!

21 December – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – Sha Tin Hall – More details here

PANDA GO! FEST HK
#children #sculpture

The exhibition showcases 2,500 panda sculptures in eight unique designs and visitors have the chance to spot traces of giant pandas at various iconic landmarks across Hong Kong, bringing art closer to daily life and raising awareness about panda conservation. All royalties generated from commercial activities are fully donated to Ocean Park to support giant panda conservation efforts.

Until 26 December – Various locations – More details here

WESTK CHRISTMAS FEST 2024
#children #fairs & festivals

Begin your journey at the vibrant “WestK Christmas Market”. Don’t miss the stunning “Hong Kong WinterFest Christmas Town”, featuring a giant Christmas tree and whimsical decorations, and enjoy the joyful sounds of live music!

Until 5 January 2025 – WestK – More details here

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: VIENNA, CITY OF DREAMS
#music

The HK Phil will celebrate the New Year in traditional Viennese style, with waltzes by Strauss, opera from Mozart, and fabulous film scores by Korngold. Australian soprano Siobhan Stagg will grace the stage with her luminous voice, performing opera and operetta favourites.

29 & 30 December – Hong Kong Cultural Centre – More details here

FRANZ HARARY: IMAGINE NATION
#theatre & circus

Prepare to be mesmerised as the world-renowned illusionist Franz Harary brings his spectacular illusions and grand-scale magic creations to Hong Kong for the very first time! Known for his breathtaking productions and mind-bending illusions, Harary will take audiences on a dreamlike magic experience both innovative and futuristic.

23 December to 5 January 2025 – Just Live, Hong Kong Harbourfront Event Space – More details here

COVE WINTER MARKET
#crafts #painting

You will find a range of artworks from Young Soy Gallery artists, including Humchuk’s “擁抱 Jung2Pou5” collection, Louie Jaubere’s “Collective dreaming of ruling class elegance” collection and Kitty’s “Hong Kong” prints, not to mention a vast selection of ceramics from WAKA artists.

Until 31 December – Young Soy Gallery – More details here

THE FORBIDDEN CITY AND THE PALACE OF VERSAILLES: CHINA-FRANCE CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS IN THE SEVENTEENTH AND EIGHTEENTH CENTURIES
#crafts #heritage #painting

The exhibition presents nearly 150 treasures from the Palace Museum and the Palace of Versailles, highlighting the rich history of mutual respect, inspiration, and exchanges in the realms of culture, arts, science, and more between the Forbidden City and Versailles during the latter half of the 17th century and throughout the 18th century.

Until 4 May 2025 – Hong Kong Palace Museum – More details here

ALAN: SPIRIT OF SUMATRA
#digital art # multimedia

ALAN (Artists Who Love Animals and Nature) explore the bond between Sumatran rainforests in a mix of MR (Mixed Reality), AR (Augmented Reality) and AI (Artificial Intelligence). The exhibition is home to 5 zones and 9 interactive experiences. Participants can join for free and learn more about its creative back story.

Until 28 February 2025 – AIRSIDE – More details here