Hong Kong’s mega events economy plays a crucial role in driving tourism: it showcases the city’s vibrant culture and cosmopolitan atmosphere, fosters cultural exchange and stimulates long-term growth.
Boasting a strategic location and world-class facilities, Hong Kong is known for its wide variety of events, including cultural festivals, entertainment, international conferences, trade fairs and sports competitions. They also provide visitors with an immersive experience of the city, which can lead to positive word-of-mouth promotion and elevate the city’s international reputation.
With over 210 mega events taking place throughout 2024, attracting approximately 1.7 million tourists, the economic potential of these events is quite significant. It is estimated that tourists will spend around HK$7.2 billion, bringing 4.3 billion of value addition to Hong Kong’s economy.
The Government also liaises closely with tourism, catering, retail, hotel, and other trades for cross-sector collaboration. According to the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), this includes partnering with the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong (TIC) to disseminate information on the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and other mega events to travel agents and other tourism-related organizations.
These efforts aim to facilitate tourists’ participation and group ticket reservations through the Greater-Go online tourism resources platform, funded by the Government to assist the travel trade in developing and incorporating relevant programmes and events into their tourism offerings and itineraries, both domestically and internationally.
The introduction of signature products, such as harbour cruises and pyrotechnics-themed dinners, further demonstrates the innovative business opportunities mega events generate. These initiatives not only stimulate consumption but also inject vitality into the economy.
CSTB has set up an inter-departmental coordination group to ensure ample support across departments and promote a supportive culture for organizing mega events. A team at the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) serves as the primary point of contact for the group, working closely with organizers to make necessary arrangements and assess the benefits of these events before presenting recommendations to the authorities. Regular updates to the calendar will keep industries informed of upcoming events, allowing businesses to launch attractive tourism products and dining packages.
Mark your diaries for the next few months, which are packed with a diverse range of highlights offering something for everyone.
Highlights of the Mega Events Calendar (October to December 2024)
Hong Kong Cyclothon (13 October 2024)
Six cycling activities and professional races will take place across the city over a single day, from 50km and 32km rides to a Family Fun Ride, a CEO Charity & Celebrity Ride and more. Participants and the public can also enjoy a sports-and-leisure-themed carnival in the West Kowloon Cultural District.
Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo (HKPAX) (14 to 18 October 2024)
HKPAX is a new premier performing arts platform to explore, experience, exhibit and exchange ideas. The inaugural edition will present performances and events through international showcases, pitch sessions, talks, exhibitions and networking activities. The programmes aim to drive cultural exchange and collaboration, create business opportunities for arts institutions and practitioners in the region and beyond, and engage the broader public in deepening their appreciation for the performing arts.
Asia+ Festival 2024 (September to November 2024)
The festival celebrates the cultural diversity of Asia, the Middle East and Belt and Road regions with an array of events like stage performances, exhibitions, outdoor carnivals and film screenings. It is presented by CSTB and organized by LCSD.
The 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival (19 October to 24 November 2024)
Hong Kong makes its debut this year as the host city for this important annual cultural extravaganza. LCSD will coordinate cultural and arts resources across the three destinations and present over 100 performances, exhibitions and activities in Hong Kong and different cities of the GBA. Arts groups from other GBA cities have been invited to co-produce works with local artists.
Wine and Dine Festival (23 to 27 October 2024)
The popular festival returns for five days at the Central Harbourfront Event Space with about 330 wine and food stalls offering culinary delights and fine wines from different countries and regions. Michelin-star and award-winning restaurants will also showcase Hong Kong as a “City of Gastronomy.”
Hong Kong Fashion Design Week (Late November to early December 2024)
Announced in the Chief Executive’s 2023 Policy Address, Hong Kong Fashion Design Week seeks to strengthen the influence of the local fashion industry on the global arena and boost the city’s reputation as a prime destination for top cultural and creative events. CCIDA spearheads the 2024-25 edition in collaboration with leaders and trendsetters in Hong Kong. The programme includes runway shows, industry talks and networking opportunities uniting established and emerging designers, international buyers and fashion enthusiasts.
Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations (31 December 2024)
One of the year’s most significant annual draws, the fireworks musical takes place on New Year’s Eve at Victoria Harbour to count down to the new year, attracting locals and visitors and lighting up Hong Kong’s iconic skyline in spectacular style.