When nights come alive

The joys of "Night Vibes Hong Kong" were spelled out yesterday as the government tries to lure locals and tourists to go out after dusk and boost the city's economy.

They include harborfront night bazaars, free Wednesday night admission to Happy Valley Racecourse, evening events at theme parks and museums and a "buy five, get one free" ride on the MTR.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, who officiated at the launch ceremony at West Kowloon Cultural District, said he hoped the night activities could bring back business and a lively atmosphere.

Many still remember the nightlife in Hong Kong was as busy and lively as the day, if not more, in the 1970s and 80s. From crowded night markets to frenzied bars and nightclubs, the city came alive.

Activities including night bazaars, arts performances, workshops and drone shows at the three harborfronts in Wan Chai, Kennedy Town and Kwun Tong on weekends will start on September 30 and last until late November, Chan said.

The Museum of Art, Science Museum and Space Museum will extend opening hours to 10pm on Fridays, weekends and public holidays from September 29.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board is discussing with merchants on Temple Street to make the night market more attractive by installing decorations and hosting food events.

Chan said large-scale events suspended amid the pandemic, including the Wine and Dine Festival, Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, Mid-Autumn lantern display at Victoria Park and National Day fireworks show will be resumed this year.

"A group of friends can watch a show or a live performance together after work. They can then have dinner and even watch a movie before returning home. A family can also visit museums at night after having meals on weekends," he said.

"Tourists are welcome to join the Night Vibes Hong Kong activities ... and enjoy the world-class night scenery."

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun, Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho and Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung attended the launch ceremony that started off with a lion dance and other performances.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club said racegoers can enjoy free admission to Happy Valley Racecourse on Wednesday nights from September 20 to December, where they can watch race meetings, performances and drink beer.

Tai Kwun on Hollywood Road will host performances and art exhibitions while offering food at night from October to February.

MTR Corp announced the "Nighttime Delights: Ride Five, Get One Free" promotion giving free-ride rewards to passengers who take the MTR at night.

Passengers who exit the MTR after 10.30pm five times can get a free ride, which can be used at any time of the day. Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland will launch special activities for Halloween such as haunted houses and other performances.

Catering sector lawmaker Tommy Cheung Yu-yan said the industry supports the government's plan and expects people to go shopping and dine out while watching the National Day fireworks.

But he said the night activities cannot be held for only a few days or months, and the government should consider how to revive the city's night economy in the long term.

A spokesman for the Hong Kong Department Stores and Commercial Staff General Union, Eric Chung Pok-man, said authorities have to ensure the diversification of products sold in night bazaars to attract residents and tourists.

Gordon Lam Sui-wa, convener of the Hong Kong Small and Medium Restaurant Federation, said night markets will help small stores develop their business.

"The night market is also a promotion opportunity for the stores, apart from bringing business. Restaurants now are trying to save costs only and couldn't find a way to expand their business, and holding more events will be helpful," he said.

Lam suggested the government set up a designated place for night markets instead of hosting short-term bazaars.

The minibus sector urged authorities to relax traffic restrictions at night such as allowing minibuses to pick up passengers in restricted zones.

The chairman of the Hong Kong Public Light Bus Owner and Driver Association, Cheung Hon-wah, appealed to the government to allow minibuses to enter large public estates after midnight as minibuses are flexible and faster than the MTR.

The increasing business could also attract drivers who quit their jobs to return to the industry.

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com

Editorial: Page 8