The Chinese New Year in Hong Kong (also called Lunar New Year or CNY) is the most important event of the year and spans several days, from February 17 to March 3, 2026.
But when you are an expatriate in Hong Kong, it is not always easy to know what to do: too many people, lots of unknown traditions, and sometimes the feeling of having “already seen everything.”
Here is a guide designed for:
– new expats who want to discover the must-sees
– long-time expats who are looking for more local, authentic, and less touristy ideas
A perfect mix between “basics” and “insider tips.”
The must-sees of Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
1- Admire the decorations and entertainment in the center
During the CNY in Hong Kong, the districts of Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Causeway Bay light up with red lanterns, dancing lions, and good-luck decorations. Perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. It’s the best way to directly get into the atmosphere, even without knowing the traditions.
Tip: IFC, Pacific Place, and Elements offer photo-friendly installations every year, perfect for a first CNY.
2- See the great fireworks display over Victoria Harbour
The Chinese New Year fireworks display is a classic, but unmissable. The skyline becomes a cinematic backdrop and the atmosphere is electric.
To avoid the crowd: it’s better to position yourself at Tamar Park, the Belcher Bay Promenade, or try a rooftop with a reservation.
3- Temples & traditions: a first immersion in culture
Wong Tai Sin to make a wish, Man Mo for the incense spirals, Che Kung Temple for the predictions of the year… It’s cliché, yes, but deeply rooted in local life.
4- Explore the flower markets
Sometimes open all night before the New Year, these are real mini-festivals. You can find peach trees, orchids, kumquats, and good-luck decorations there.
The one at Victoria Park is the most iconic for a first experience.
For long-established expats: rediscovering CNY in a different way
1- Participate in local traditions: the Wheel of Fortune & the Che Kung Temple
On the 2nd day of the New Year, Hongkongers go to the Che Kung Temple (Sha Tin) to spin the Wheel of Fortune and attract good luck for the coming year. It’s a lively, noisy, ultra-local tradition.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowd. Nothing to do with classic tourist visits.
2- Hang a wish on the Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree
In Tai Po, this custom consists of writing a wish on a piece of paper attached to an artificial orange, then throwing it into the branches of the famous tree. It is festive, authentic, and often filled with Hong Kong families – very few expats go there.
It’s also a good excuse to spend a day in the New Territories.
Try (or cook!) the real good-luck dishes
Instead of the mainstream restaurants in the center, opt for the places where Hong Kong families truly celebrate:
- Traditional Poon Choi in the New Territories villages
- Artisanal Nian Gao (good luck sticky cake)
- Fish maw soup, turnip cake, sesame balls… Neighborhood associations sometimes sell their own nian gao cakes: a super local experience.
4- Experience the “First Sunrise” of the New Year
More and more young Hongkongers climb Dragon’s Back, Long Ke Wan, or Tap Mun to witness the first sunrise of the lunar year. A modern tradition, but one that provides a unique symbolic atmosphere.
5- A private “Sunset & Fireworks” junk
For those who want to avoid the crowds on the waterfront while still enjoying the show, Hongkongers sometimes reserve private junks that position themselves in the harbor. It’s quieter, much more pleasant… and truly memorable.
6- Take a “purification walk” by the sea
A little-known practice but highly appreciated by spiritual locals: going to the beach early in the morning to walk barefoot in the water and “let the old year go.”
Repulse Bay, Shek O, or even Mui Wo are perfect for this
By combining essential classics and truly local experiences, you can transform this celebration into an authentic, participatory, and meaningful moment — regardless of how long you have been settled here.