The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival drew an unprecedented crowd this year, with a 30% surge in average daily visitors and a significant spike in sales, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced Monday. The four-day culinary extravaganza, held at the Central Harbourfront from Thursday to Sunday, solidified the city’s reputation as a global gastronomic hub.
The festival, which featured Michelin-starred chefs and an array of international cuisines, attracted approximately 163,000 visitors from over 30 countries and regions, surpassing the HKTB’s initial estimate of 150,000 by nearly 9%. Extended hours until midnight each night—a first for the event—contributed to the robust turnout, allowing more time for attendees to indulge in food and wine offerings.
HKTB Chairman Peter Lam hailed the event’s success, noting, “We are delighted to see so many locals and visitors enthusiastically participating in the four-day Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, driving robust spending.” The festival’s appeal was evident in the nearly 40% year-on-year increase in average daily tasting tokens, used by visitors to sample an assortment of dishes and wines.
Merchants reported a business boom, with some seeing sales rise by 40% to 50% compared to last year’s event. Both locals and tourists described the festival as a “not-to-be-missed” experience, drawn by its vibrant atmosphere and culinary prestige.
Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, echoed Lam’s sentiments, calling the festival’s performance “outstanding” and highlighting its role in boosting Hong Kong’s economy. “The Wine & Dine Festival further solidifies Hong Kong’s status as a ‘City of Gastronomy’, while also enhancing the overall consumption atmosphere,” Law said. She added that the event showcased the city’s dynamic nightlife, amplifying the economic impact of major events.
The festival’s success underscores Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its tourism sector and reinforce its position as a premier destination for food and culture enthusiasts. With improved spending sentiment and a diverse international crowd, the event has set a high bar for future editions.
