As the New Year approaches, Hong Kong springs to life with a vibrant countdown spirit. Although the city has canceled the firework display over Victoria Harbour in respect for the Tai Po fire victims, there are still plenty of exciting countdown events to choose from.
From glorious displays on Central’s Chater Road and the magic of Disneyland to the lively music at West Kowloon, The Standard has curated a list of the best countdown spots for those seeking the perfect way to welcome the new beginnings.
Hong Kong New Year Countdown in Central
A brand-new countdown show featuring music and light displays is taking place in Central. Internationally acclaimed group Air Supply will headline the event for their classic hits, joined by local artists Jay Fung and Cloud Wan. A children’s choir and the Hong Kong Police Band will also participate in the festivities.
Additionally, the walls of eight iconic buildings participating in the Immersive Light Show in Central will feature light projections of a giant countdown clock and seasonal patterns. A three-minute light performance themed “New Hope, New Beginnings” will offer blessings to the audience on-site and viewers worldwide as everyone steps into 2026 together.
Date: December 31 11.30pm to January 1 12.10am
Venue: Chater Road Pedestrian Precinct, Central, Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong Disneyland: Starry Night Countdown (Limited edition)
The party kicks off on New Year’s Eve at around 9 PM, where Disney friends will join DJs in Tomorrowland and Adventureland to host a lively warm-up party, getting everyone ready to sing, dance, and enjoy the night.
As midnight approaches, the enchanting castle will become the party’s mainstage. Just as you are captivated by the grand finale fireworks, Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck, Daisy, and Pluto will lead everyone in a joyful countdown featuring sparkling fireworks, new light shows, and drone performances.
Date: December 31 9pm
Venue: Main Street, USA, Hong Kong Disneyland
AIA Carnival
The AIA Carnival will return to the Central Waterfront, offering thrilling rides, family-friendly booth games, delicious snacks, and countless photo opportunities. In addition to regular attractions, there will be special themed photo spots and celebrations during the Christmas and New Year period.
Date: Now until March 1, 2026
Venue: Central Harbourfront Event Space
Merry Balloon Hong Kong
The winter celebration Merry Balloon Hong Kong showcases a large balloon parade with nearly 20 local and international beloved IP characters, including LuLu The Piggy and M&M. The West Kowloon Cultural District will host a giant Merry Balloon Park.
Date: Now until January 4, 2026
Venue: West Kowloon Cultural District and designated areas
WestK Winter Celebrations
Enjoy a series of arts and music performances featuring street bands, carol singing, and street performers to enrich the festive atmosphere.
Date: Now until January 4, 2025
Venue: Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District
Central Winter Wonderland
If you miss the Christmas celebration, you can head to the Winter Wonderland at Statue Square in Central, where a 20-meter tall Christmas tree stands alongside charming toy-themed decorations. Enjoy the delightful mini train that activates with sound and smoke every 20 minutes, as well as a series of festive activities, including heartwarming meet-and-greets with Santa Claus and live performances.
The Christmas market, made up of 12 charming wooden huts, offers a range of festive-themed dining and seasonal treats. Visitors can also find unique gifts and participate in exclusive holiday workshops
Date: Now until January 4, 2026, 11am to 11:30pm
Venue: North & South Squares, Statue Square Gardens, Central, Hong Kong Island
Starry walk in Central
Hongkong Land will illuminate Chater Road with enchanting decorations, creating a romantic starry walkway in Central. Pedestrian bridges and railings will be adorned with dazzling lights and festive decor, locals and visitors can enjoy the large interactive Christmas installation “Noëlia at LANDMARK” in the Landmark atrium.
Date: Now until February 22, 2026
Venue: Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong Island
Festilumi immersive light experience
Festilumi is an immersive light park featuring nine themed areas including The Jurassic Kingdom, The Enchanted Maples, boasting unique light sculptures, interactive installations, and whimsical creatures. The park is also home to the world’s tallest 47-meter light Christmas tree – the Festilumi Tree of Lights, created from over 250,000 LED lights and 50,000 light balls.
Date: Opened on December 12
Venue: Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space
The Mills Bro Mellow Christmas
Enjoy premium coffee while soaking in the holiday atmosphere. The Urban Brew Summit gathers over 40 local and international coffee shops, offering unique flavors like black sesame Viennese coffee and -86° Dirty.
Date: until January 1, 2026, 10am to 10pm
Venue: The Mills G/F
Ancient Egypt Unveiled: Treasures from Egyptian Museums
The exhibition showcases 250 precious artifacts from key museums and archaeological sites in Egypt. It features pharaoh statues, gold ornaments, large wooden sarcophagi, animal mummies, and the latest archaeological discoveries, highlighting nearly 5,000 years of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Date: now until August 31, 2026
Time: 10am to 6pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays
10am to 8pm on Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays
Closed on Tuesdays and the first two days of Lunar New Year
Venue: Hong Kong Palace Museum, West Kowloon
