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The Year of the Horse celebrations are almost here. Hong Kong’s streets are already glowing with red lanterns, lined with mandarin plants, and dressed in festive colours. From dazzling fireworks over the harbour and the vibrant annual parade, to a special race day at Sha Tin for the Year of the Horse, there’s so much to see and do. Here’s a complete guide to all the Chinese New Year events happening across Hong Kong in 2026.
With your poon choi orders placed, your New Year puddings secured, and your festive dinner plans sorted, it’s time to put your feet up and take a well-deserved breath. Now, all that’s left is to enjoy the joyful celebrations across the city, they’re not to be missed!
Chinese New Year Events in Hong Kong in 2026: Parade, fireworks, markets
Lanterns and Blossoms at Lee Tung Avenue
The sea of red and gold during Chinese New Year always warms us. This year, Lee Tung Avenue will glow brighter, with over 800 traditional lanterns suspended above the tree-lined street. Complementing the display, a peach blossom garden will bloom at the open-air Central Piazza, accompanied by lively lion dance performances.
Check out our neighbourhood guide to Wan Chai for where to eat and things to do in the area.
- Date: January 29 to March 15
- Venue: Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Chinese New Year Flower Markets
Ahead of the Lunar New Year, you’ll notice people on the streets carrying bundles of colourful flowers and beautiful, towering orchids. If you’d like to pick up some auspicious blooms of your own, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Prince Edward’s Flower Market. Alternatively, you can explore the massive floral installations, interactive booths, and countless festive stalls at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay.
- Date: February 11 to 17
- Venue: Prince Edward Flower Market, Victoria Park, and more locations across Hong Kong
2026 Chinese New Year Fireworks Display
Join the spectators on both sides of Victoria Harbour on the second day of Chinese New Year to witness an astounding fireworks display as Hong Kong ushers in the Year of the Horse. This year’s theme is ‘Prosperity Gallops Across Hong Kong’. There are plenty of free spots to catch the fireworks. Or simply skip the crowds and dine at a restaurant with a stunning harbour-view.
The fireworks start at 8 pm and will last for about 23 minutes. Here are the best vantage points to catch the Chinese New Year fireworks.
- Date: February 18
- Venue: Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong
Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade
It’s that time of year again when performers in dazzling costumes dance to synchronised beats. This year’s parade will feature horse-inspired floats alongside dynamic performances by talented local and international troupes.
The parade itself will run from 8 pm to 9:45 pm., starting from the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza and winding its way along Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road. For an early start, don’t miss the lively pre-parade street party from 6 pm to 8:30 pm., complete with magic shows and live music.
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- Date: February 17
- Venue: Streets of Tsim Sha Tsui
Lam Tsuen Well-Wishing Festival
An age-old Hong Kong tradition, crowds gather at the legendary wishing tree in Lam Tsuen, Tai Po. People write their wishes on a joss paper placard and tie it to a mandarin, an auspicious fruit for the new year. It’s believed that if you can throw your placard high up onto the tree and it stays, your wish is more likely to come true. Beyond this timeless custom, the village comes alive with festive food stalls, lively carnival games, music shows, a float exhibition, and more.
- Date: From February 12 to March 3
- Venue: Lam Tsuen Wishing Square, Lam Tsuen, Tai Po
Year of the Horse Raceday
Have you ever noticed the Mark Six lottery jackpot surge after every Chinese New Year? It’s no coincidence, Hong Kongers enjoy adding a little wagering fun to their lai see tradition. And with it being the Year of the Horse, you can bet everyone’s hopes are high for a winning streak. For one of the most popular racing events in town, make your way to the Sha Tin Racecourse. Beyond the thrilling horse races, you can also enjoy lion dance performances, live music shows, and more festive excitement.
- Date: February 19
- Venue: Sha Tin Racecourse
This story first appeared here.
(Feature image credit: Marjan/Pexels)
Related | The T+L Editor’s Travel Wishlist: Best Places To Visit In 2026
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
There will be a Chinese New Year fireworks show, a night parade, a traditional flower market, lucky horse races, and more.
From February 17 to 19, 2026.
You can either watch it for free along the Victoria Harbour, or watch from a harbour-facing restaurant.
Yes, the entire city buzzes with decorations, lanterns , and festive energy, but expect higher prices.
Yes, many shops are open during Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, especially major malls, chain stores, and restaurants in tourist areas, though smaller, family-run shops often close for a few days.
Written By
Fashila Kanakka
Born in India and raised in Hong Kong, Fashila’s always down to explore a new neighbourhood and tick ..Read More
