Hong Kong’s annual Chinese New Year night parade is set to light up the city on February 17, ushering in the Year of the Horse with a dazzling array of floats and international performances, organizers announced Tuesday.
The event, hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will kick off at 8 p.m. at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza. The vibrant procession will wind its way along Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road, culminating at the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers.
This year’s parade, themed “Everywhere a Wish,” promises a colorful spectacle featuring 12 floats that highlight distinctive facets of Hong Kong’s culture and heritage. Forty-six performing troupes from countries including Italy, France, and Canada will add an international dimension to the festivities.
Among the new highlights is a float from McDonald’s Hong Kong, inspired by the 1980s interior design of its Sha Tin restaurant, evoking nostalgia for the city’s fast-food history. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association will also make its debut with a float showcasing beloved local characters such as LABUBU and Molly, celebrating the city’s creative spirit.
A fresh addition to the parade is the Lam Tsuen Wishing Square float, which will transform into a mobile “Glowing Wishing Tree.” This float aims to bring to life traditional village prayer customs and the festive atmosphere unique to Hong Kong.
Andrew Yeung, general manager of event and product development at the Tourism Board, said the parade is expected to draw around 100,000 spectators, with about half being visitors from abroad.
“We inject new elements every year to our parade and also our events as well,” Yeung said. “I’m sure that we can attract tourists from overseas and we are working with our overseas office to bring this message out and draw more visitors to Hong Kong.”
This year’s celebrations hold special significance with the inclusion of the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park as a secondary venue. Some floats will be displayed there starting from the second day of Chinese New Year, Yeung noted, adding that the location’s accessibility is expected to attract more visitors.
For those unable to attend in person, the parade will be broadcast live on television and online, ensuring the festivities reach a global audience.
The annual night parade remains a highlight of Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year celebrations, blending local traditions with international flair to welcome the new year with joy and optimism.
