The first day of the Chinese New Year starts on 28th January and we’ll be celebrating the Year of the Rooster! If you’re staying in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year – LUCKY YOU! It’s such a magical time of year with cool temperatures, no crowds and lots of fun things to do with the kids.
If you’re stuck for ideas, here are our top recommendations for entertaining the family this coming Chinese New Year.
Camping
It’s the perfect weather for a family camping trip! Head to Tai Long Wan. You have the option of hiking in to the beach or taking a speed boat (not such a great option if the waves are choppy!) Pitch your tent on the beach and enjoy the magnificent views. There are some basic amenities including changing rooms, BBQ pits and even a few dai pai dongs where you can buy drinks and snacks and even rent camping equipment. Double the fun and go with another family so the kids have buddies to entertain them and you have a few buddies too!
AIA Great European Carnival
If you haven’t already taken the kids to the Carnival, you still have a chance. It’s open until 12th February 2017! This is an all time favourite full family day out with incredible rides, street artists, new games and toys (new this year are Trolls!), great music, entertainment and food stalls.
Lunar New Year Fireworks Display
Find a spot along Victoria Harbour to “ooh” and “aah” over the amazing fireworks display on the second day of Chinese New Year, the 29th January at 8pm. Vantage points are along the TST waterfront, West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade, Central and Western District Promenade and Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.
Masters of Hong Kong
Discover the passionate world of equestrian sport during the 3 days of this event. Experience world class show jumping. Starts on 10th February at Asia World Expo. Visit www.loginesmasters.com for more information.
Visit Temples
During Chinese New Year locals give thanks for the past 12 months and pray for good fortune for the new year. Popular places to perform these rituals include the Wong Tai Sin Temple, Yuen Yuen Institute, Che Kung Temple, Lam Tsuen Wishing Treets and Man Mo Temple. Why not visit a temple with the kids and shore up some good fortune for yourselves!
Flower Markets
15 Parks in Hong Kong will host Flower Markets. It is a belief that blossoming flowers will bring you luck. Even if you don’t actually buy any, simply walking round a flower market in a circle will bring you good fortune. There are usually other creative things to buy which you can use for home decoration. The largest Flower Markets are at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay and Fa Hui Park in Mong Kok. Locals often visit the flower markets after dinner on the Eve of Chinese New Year.
CNY Parade
On the first evening of Chinese New Year the annual Chinese New Year Night Parade is held in Tsim Sha Tsui on Canton Road, Salisbury Road and Nathan Road. To catch a glimpse of the beautifully decorated floats and watch performaces such as a lion or dragon dance, find yourself a spot along one of these main roads early, before it kicks off at 8pm.
As usual during major holidays there are also special events and spectacles at Ocean Park and Disney Land. Finally, don’t forget your Lai See packets! Kung Hei Fat Choy from the Baby Central Team!
CNY in Hong Kong with Kids