Extended Halloween month sparks 34 percent tourist jump, industry calls for year-round events

Extended Halloween celebrations and major events helped draw about 600,000 inbound travelers to Hong Kong over the weekend from Friday to Sunday, marking a 34 percent year-on-year increase.

Dennis Wong Ka-wing, head of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism at the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, said the success of the extended Halloween month spanned multiple districts including Wan Chai, Mong Kok, and Tsim Sha Tsui, alongside simultaneous events like the Wine & Dine Festival and concerts at the Kai Tak Sports Park.

Wong suggested that the government and industry plan major events early to attract high-spending tourists. Regarding same-day visitors, Wong noted that local hotels should enhance their uniqueness through themed rooms and quality services to encourage overnight stays.

Edward Leung Hei, chairman of the Hong Kong Feast and Retreat Association, said diversified district activities helped urban hotels reach full occupancy over the weekend, with room prices surging 50 to 60 percent.

Leung urged authorities to space out major events evenly to avoid sharp fluctuations in business and maintain long-term economic benefits.

𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽 ↓