Lunar New Year fairs open with cautious cheer for the Year of Horse

Festive gates swung wide as Hong Kong's Lunar New Year flower markets opened today, charging into a week of celebrations for the Year of the Horse.

At Victoria Park—home to the city’s largest Lunar New Year market—vendors began preparations early in the morning to welcome the festive crowds.

Among the seasoned sellers is a peach blossom vendor with over two decades of experience, who opted for cautious pricing despite strong yields boosted by the warm weather

He cited the current economic climate as a major concern, aiming to attract customers with affordable offerings instead.

An orchid seller nearby reported a 10 percent increase in orders compared to last year, with high-end residential and fine-dining clients spending more generously. 

The vendor remained optimistic that sales would hold steady despite economic uncertainties or the trend of residents heading north for holiday shopping.

Wong, another flower stall owner, observed an increase in foot traffic and local spending, predicting the sales will perform “quite well” this year. 

Another vendor, Lee, revealed her strategy to focus on quality and service, saying ”Competition is tough, but we hope market conditions improve.”

To celebrate the Year of the Horse, many dry goods stalls are featuring equine-themed merchandise.

Notably, a group of veterinary students from City University of Hong Kong set up their first stall, selling self-designed products such as red envelopes, spring couplets, and keychains bearing auspicious phrases like “Gallop at the head” and “As energetic as a dragon and a horse.” 

The group plans to donate 5 percent of its proceeds to a community veterinary outreach program, hoping to raise awareness for animal welfare.

Additionally, shopper budgets and spirits were high on the opening day,  with Lai sharing her plans to buy peach blossoms and narcissus as usual to celebrate the new year.

Another shopper, Pak, revealed her budget for flowers has increased to HK$2,000 this year, emphasizing the importance of buying early for the best blossoms.

However, Yu, who brought visitors from Singapore, expressed disappointment as not many stalls were open by the advertised 8 am, limiting their experience of the festive atmosphere before their flight.