City of lights
The city that’s home to the biggest light and laser extravaganza in the world can only pay tribute to Christmas one way - with more festive brightness - and Xmas-themed activities - than anywhere else in Asia
Christmas is nearly here again, and it’s time to be dazzled by Hong Kong’s Christmas lights, which represent some of the most eye-catching displays not only in Asia but also the world. While environmental concerns are of course an issue (just think how much electricity it takes to power the various illuminated Santas, presents and trees dotted throughout the city), and Hong Kong doesn’t really celebrate Christmas per se, the lights are a massive sparklingy nod to the festive season.
This year, as always, the bulk of the Christmas lights are draped over the buildings of Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, illuminating the harbour and two of the city’s most prominent districts. The malls, particularly International Finance Centre (IFC), Ocean Terminal, Times Square and Elements are also shining brightly with illuminated trees and festive lights. Jim Marvin, the holiday designer who has been decorating the White House for Christmas since 1997, meanwhile, has been busy beautifying Alexandra House, Exchange Square, Chater House, Jardine House, Prince’s Building and The Landmark (look out too for his Christmas tree, in various shades of green, standing on top of The Atrium).
Likewise, the city’s annual Winterfest, which runs from November 28 to January 4 this year, is a real Christmas highlight for Hong Kong, and a holiday-themed antique tram and float with carol singers are some of the attractions of this year’s celebrations, which mark the festival’s seventh anniversary.
Standing ten storeys tall, the tree in Statue Square is another glitzy standout. Y K Pang, Chief Executive of Hongkong Land, which has sponsored the Christmas tree this year, says, “With its vibrant colours and spectacular design, the tree aptly reflects the prosperity, modernity and dynamism of Hong Kong, while also demonstrating the traditional grace and festive spirit of the joyous season.”
Hong Kong Disneyland, too, is keen to embrace the holidays from November 28 to January 2, with themed entertainment and attractions, such as the Let It Snow Christmas parade. New for this year is Mickey’s Christmas House, where kids can have a photo taken with Santa Mickey, as is the Royal Christmas Ball stage show.
“There’s never been a better time for our guests and their beloveds to create special Christmas memories together,” says Maple Lee, Vice President, Marketing, for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, referring to the park’s latest attractions for 2008.
Not to be outdone by its American rival, Ocean Park has its Ice Odyssey, an ice-skating extravaganza, and a multimedia forest of 200 Christmas trees for guests to explore from December 13 to January 4.
Even if you don’t go out of your way to seek out some Christmas spirit, Hong Kong’s nightly light displays are sure to ignite some festive fervour, and once the season’s over, there’s no need to succumb to the post-holiday blues, as it’s only a matter of weeks before it’s time to celebrate Chinese New Year.
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