On February 17, 2026, celebrations of all kinds will thrill several countries in Asia and beyond. And for good reason, this date marks the Lunar New Year and the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse. A combination that is as rare as it is powerful, symbolizing freedom, determination, momentum, and above all, movement. In Asian culture, this year is favorable for boldness, vitality, and independence of spirit. It is with this spirit that the Hong Kong region has prepared a grand celebration, from its traditional night parade to dragon dances, under the theme “Everywhere A Wish.” Join us!
A Magical Parade in the Heart of Hong Kong
Every year, this is an unmissable event. The Cathay International Chinese New Year Parade is the highlight that kicks off the festivities, featuring around sixty themed floats and artistic groups from Hong Kong and around the world. A celebration that captivates everyone!
cute; an authentic nighttime celebration, transforming the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui into a big festive open-air stage, gathering locals and international visitors to bring good fortune for the coming year. This year, the floats will be on display at the Kai Tak Sports Park until February 26 (accompanied by artistic performances on February 18 and 19), extending the excitement of the parade throughout the festive period.
In addition to the impressive floats, the parade also features a dynamically engaging program, including the fascinating Luminary Dragon Dance, a staple of the Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts, Dragon, and Lion Dance Association. It’s also a chance to discover performers from all corners of the globe. This year, for example, we will see the Proudly Horseback show by the French group Quidams, showcasing monumental illuminated horse displays. And don’t miss the acrobatic troupe from Xi’an and the Canadian acrobatic comedy duo Les Vitaminés. Together, all these groups bring a sparkling energy that enhances the international appeal of Hong Kong and its festival.
Celebrations Across the Territory
Alongside the fantastic parade, the entire territory of Hong Kong pulsates with the spirit of the Chinese New Year, atthrough rituals and popular gatherings. We discover the streets beautifully decorated for the event, showcasing the fai chun, traditional decorations that symbolize luck and prosperity, sometimes integrating contemporary calligraphy, 3D letters, and even LED lights. The most famous and impressive ones are Pottinger Street (Central, Hong Kong Island), Fuk Wing Street (Sham Shui Po in Kowloon), and Sai Yeung Choi Street (Mong Kok in Kowloon).
The festivities begin in the days leading up to the Chinese New Year, in various parks and community centers in the region, which are filled with seasonal flowers and symbolic decorations for the occasion. We recommend visiting the most popular ones – Victoria Park in Causeway Bay (Hong Kong Island) and Fa Hui Park in Mong Kok (Kowloon) – for a burst of vibrant colors and a joyful atmosphere. At the same time, for a touch of spirituality, you can also visit the historic temples of Hong Kong, co.like that of Wong Tai Sin, Che Kung, or even Kwun Yam, to pray for love, fortune, prosperity, and success in the new year. Another highly anticipated annual highlight for locals and visitors alike: a giant fireworks display will light up the iconic Victoria Harbour.
Once you're in the new year, you can head over to the Lam Tsuen district (until March 3rd this year) to seek your luck. According to tradition, the Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival invites you to write your wishes on a piece of paper tied to an orange before tossing it towards the wishing tree. According to superstitions, wishes come true if they stick to the branches! Plus, this year we enter the Year of the Horse, and Sha Tin Racecourse is hosting a special event on February 19th, complete with exciting races and a highly festive atmosphere. On the food side, a variety of festive snacks are enjoyed for Chinese New Year, with symbols of good fortune. You can visit the historic bakeries and shops in Kowloon City or Sham Shui Po to savor classics like siu hau zou (sesame balls) for happiness, and yau gok (fried dumplings).fry with peanuts) for prosperity, or the chuen hap, a platter of snacks filled with sweets representing unity.
So you’ve got it, in Hong Kong, every corner lights up for the Chinese New Year, promising us a multitude of joyful and festive events. It’s a top destination for this time of year, one that we gladly add to our wishlist !
Chinese New Year Calendar 2026 in Hong Kong
February 11 – 17, 2026
Chinese New Year Flower Markets
February 17, 2026 (from 6 PM – parade at 8 PM)
Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade – Tsim Sha Tsui
Featuring participation from the French company Les Quidams with FierS à Cheval
February 17 – early March 2026
Chinese New Year rituals and temple visits
February 18 – March 3, 2026
Float exhibition and activities in various locations
Focus on Kai Tak Sports Park until February 26
February 19, 2026
Chinese New Year Raceday - Sha Tin Racecourse
Early March 2026
Chinese New Year Lantern Carnival
To start planning your trip, visit the site Discover Hong Kong for more details.
