Winterfest in Hong Kong

Hong Kong swings into full merrymaking with the “2005 Winterfest,” an event that is expected to make this wonderland the focus of Christmas and New Year celebrations in Asia for the fourth consecutive year.

The Winterfest, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), aims to attract more visitors than the 2.55 million last year, bringing total yearly arrivals to the target of 23 million.

The launch ceremony held recently in Statue Square, Central were graced by HKTB chairman Selina Chow, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development Sandra Lee and other Hong Kong dignitaries.

This year’s Winterfest features an even larger Santa’s Town, which has incorporated more family-friendly and seasonal elements.

"Christmas is really about love and care, which is why we’ve chosen this theme for the Mega Event," Chow remarked. "By transforming Hong Kong’s central business district into a European-style Christmas town, and bringing together a diversity of events and entertainment, we aim to offer family visitors a joyful and unforgettable winter holiday."

Santa’s Town in Central has extended beyond Statue Square and into Chater Garden during weekends and public holidays, when there will be performances and carol singing by local and international performing groups.

As in past years, visitors to Santa’s Town can hang wishing cards prepared by the HKTB along the Wishing Corner. Alternatively, they can write down their wishes to their families and friends at Santa’s Post Office for display.

The HKTB is packaging a wide variety of activities staged by other organizations during the Winterfest period, which will further enrich the visitor experience. These include A Symphony of Lights, which has just been recognized as the world’s "Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show" by Guinness World Records; Bruce Lee Festival – Hong Kong 2005; Quidam by Cirque du Soleil; and special programs by Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland.

The HKTB has already produced a Hong Kong Winterfest Activities Guide and Passport to Special Offers, which will be distributed at various entry points during the Winterfest period.

With Christmas drawing near, visitors arriving at Hong Kong International Airport and the Lo Wu border crossing will receive a special welcome from the HKTB on certain dates Dec. 16-18 and 23-27, as promoters dressed in Christmas costumes will distribute seasonal candies, spreading the good cheer to different parts of Hong Kong.