Hong Kong Lunar New Year 2027: fireworks, parade and events

When is Lunar New Year 2027 in Hong Kong, and what's on?

Lunar New Year's Day is Saturday 6 February 2027. The government's public holidays are 6, 8 and 9 February; the 9th replaces the second day of the new year, which falls on a Sunday.

The highlights are the flower fairs before New Year's Day, the night parade on the first day, the harbour fireworks on the second day, temple visits and the race meeting at Sha Tin. Arrive a few days before New Year's Day to see the markets at their busiest, and allow four or five days in total.

Where can you watch the parade and fireworks?

The International Chinese New Year Night Parade, with floats and performers from around the world, is planned for 6 February 2027 in Tsim Sha Tsui; the Hong Kong Tourism Board publishes the route and seating details closer to the time. Watching from the roadside is free, but arrive early for a good spot; grandstand seats are sold separately.

The fireworks over Victoria Harbour on 7 February are free to watch. The Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and Avenue of Stars have the classic skyline view; the Central and Wan Chai harbourfronts are alternatives. Expect huge crowds, one-way walking routes and MTR exits closing temporarily, so travel light and agree a meeting point. Fireworks cruises and harbour-view restaurants book up early.

Which flower fairs and temples should you visit?

The biggest Lunar New Year fair is in Victoria Park, Causeway Bay, in the week before New Year's Day, with stalls selling peach blossom, orchids, kumquat trees and decorations. It's busiest on New Year's Eve, when it stays open late. The Mong Kok Flower Market is worth a visit too.

Wong Tai Sin Temple, next to Wong Tai Sin MTR station, is packed with worshippers seeking good fortune, especially on New Year's Eve and the first days of the year. Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin is famous for its brass windmills, spun for luck. In Tai Po, the Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees host a festival with wish-placards on display racks. Be respectful: queue patiently and don't block worshippers for photos.

What else can you do over Lunar New Year?

The Hong Kong Jockey Club holds a Lunar New Year race meeting at Sha Tin, a big festive day out; check the date and tickets on the official site. The Star Ferry across the harbour is a cheap, classic ride, and the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak has the best city view, but expect long holiday queues, so go early or on a quieter day.

Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park put on New Year celebrations. The festival ends with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day, 20 February 2027, when lantern displays appear around the city.

What's open, and where should you stay?

Hong Kong doesn't shut down for Lunar New Year. The MTR, hotels, shopping centres and major attractions stay open, sometimes with changed hours. Many small shops, markets and family restaurants close for the first few days, and banks and government offices close on the public holidays. Book restaurants ahead, especially for the first days of the year.

Stay in Tsim Sha Tsui for the parade and the fireworks view, in Central or Admiralty for transport links, or in Causeway Bay for the Victoria Park fair and shopping. A 'harbour view' room doesn't always mean a fireworks view, so check which way it faces. Book early and check your government's travel advice before you go.

Tips for a Lunar New Year visit

• Plan one big event a day, as the crowds make crossing the city slow.
• February evenings can be cool and damp: bring a light jacket and an umbrella.
• Carry an Octopus card for the MTR, buses, trams and the Star Ferry.
• Lai see (red envelopes with money) are given by married people to children and staff, not expected from visitors.

Frequently asked questions