A Guide to Celebrating Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most significant celebration among Chinese communities worldwide. Hong Kong is no exception, showcasing lion dance performances, flower markets, temple visits, fireworks displays, wishing trees and a plethora of traditional CNY food for an authentic experience. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best experiences to enjoy during the CNY holiday in Hong Kong, all conveniently accessible from our hotel.
Top Chinese New Year Experiences in Hong Kong
The key dates for Chinese New Year celebrations in 2026 are from 17 to 23 February, but festivities begin the week prior. Here’s what you can experience before and during the Hong Kong CNY:
1. One Week Before CNY: Flower Markets
Embrace the festive atmosphere by visiting various CNY flower markets across the city in the week leading up to the festival. These bustling markets feature auspicious blooms, festive decorations, local delicacies, handcrafted goods and more. The Victoria Park Flower Market, located just a three-minute walk from our hotel, is the largest and most popular. For great deals, consider visiting on the last day before the markets close.
2. First Day of CNY: New Year’s Parade
The Hong Kong CNY parade is a spectacular event that attracts both residents and visitors. Taking place in Tsim Sha Tsui, the parade showcases colourful floats, talented performers and a vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to check the parade schedule and choose an ideal viewing spot to fully enjoy the experience. Witnessing captivating performances along the lively streets is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and cultural diversity.
3. Second Day of CNY: Fireworks Display at Victoria Harbour
The grand fireworks show that illuminates Victoria Harbour is the most anticipated annual tradition on the second day of the festival. This dazzling spectacle brightens the night sky, featuring synchronised music and lighting effects. The waterfront areas near the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, just a ten‑minute walk from our hotel, offers one of the best vantage points.
4. Third Day of CNY: New Year Horse Racing
On the third day of CNY, visit Sha Tin Racecourse for one of the year’s most exciting horse racing events. Join the enthusiastic crowd as spectators eagerly cheer on their favourite contenders. Alongside the races, revel in lion dance performances, an exhilarating variety show and live music, all contributing to a festive atmosphere in celebration of a prosperous New Year.
When your stay at Lanson Place Causeway Bay overlaps with 19 February 2026—when the Year of the Horse Raceday takes place at Sha Tin Racecourse—you will receive a complimentary beer voucher, which can be used at the event (entry ticket required).
5. During CNY: Wishing Tree
Explore the traditional village of Lam Tsuen, which truly comes to life during CNY! Visit the iconic Wishing Tree, where you can write your wishes on joss paper and toss them into the branches. According to legend, if your wish catches on the tree, it is bound to come true—the higher it hangs, the more likely it is to be fulfilled! This interesting tradition adds a magical touch to your festive experience, making Lam Tsuen a charming destination during the celebrations.
6. During CNY: Temple Visits
Celebrate Chinese New Year like a local by visiting temples to offer prayers, light incense sticks and make offerings for good fortune. We recommend Lin Fa Kung in Tin Hau, a historic site that is over 160 years old. Declared a protected monument in 2014, it is just a twelve-minute walk from our hotel. For those seeking blessings in their relationships, take a scenic hike along Bowen Road in Wanchai to visit Lovers’ Rock. Remember to spin the fortune pinwheel clockwise three times after your prayer. This spiritual journey will add more meaning to your festive celebrations while connecting you with inspiring Hong Kong cultural experiences.
7. During CNY: Lion Dances
During Chinese New Year, the streets of Hong Kong buzz with excitement, especially during the traditional Lion Dance. The rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals naturally draw the crowd in. Talented performers clad in intricate lion costumes captivate onlookers with their graceful movements, symbolising good luck and prosperity. Remember to give the lions’ heads a gentle pat as they perform—this gesture is believed to bring you good fortune.
8. Food Festivals and Traditional Cuisine
A visit to Hong Kong during this festival wouldn’t be complete without indulging in traditional CNY cuisine. The culinary offerings are steeped in auspicious meanings and CNY traditions, with each dish crafted to usher in good fortune for the year ahead. Essential must-try dishes include fish, symbolising abundance and prosperity, and black moss, which is believed to bring luck. Delight in an array of cakes such as glutinous rice cake and turnip cake, representing continuous growth and success. You may also come across a candy box, known as a ‘togetherness box’, filled with small treats that carry rich cultural connotations. Look out for dried seeds, candied watermelon and chocolate coins!
Planning Your Stay in Hong Kong
With so many exciting happenings, it is essential to plan your Hong Kong accommodation early to experience everything firsthand! Lanson Place Causeway Bay offers all-inclusive stays in newly refreshed spaces featuring French-inspired design and a welcoming, homely ambience. Our dedicated Concierge is available to offer personalised recommendations on places to visit, while our convenient location allows easy access to various public transport options as you explore the city.
Hong Kong Travel Tips: How to Celebrate CNY in Hong Kong
- Greetings: Feel free to greet others with ‘Kung Hei Fat Choy’, a traditional phrase wishing wealth and prosperity.
- Wear Auspicious Colours: Red is considered auspicious, and you’ll see many locals wearing it. Join in the celebrations by incorporating red into your outfit.
- Avoid Taboos: The third day of CNY is often associated with arguments or conflict, so it is customary not to visit friends and family. Instead, consider attending horse races or visiting temples.
Hong Kong during Chinese New Year offers a feast for the senses, filled with spectacular experiences and rich traditions. With this guide, you’re well on your way to experiencing the magic of CNY in Hong Kong. Lanson Place provides the perfect home base for exploring the festivities. Join us in welcoming the Year of the Horse!
All images credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board
