Hong Kong’s annual winter celebration is about to return to Central Harbourfront this month! AIA Carnival will take place from December 22, 2025 to March 1, 2026, spanning the Christmas, New Year’s, and Lunar New Year holidays. The carnival’s 11th edition pays tribute to Hong Kong’s cultural heritage with performances from local talents, local cuisine, and photo ops inspired by the city’s beloved landmarks and neighbourhoods.
As always, thrilling rides, carnival games, and more await along the harbourfront – and there’s good news for fairgoers this year. Organisers are introducing a flexible ride pricing system that offers lower rates on selected off-peak days, as well as a digital token system that conveniently lets you top up your token cards through a secure digital wallet between rides.
After snatching up limited-edition prizes at over 30 different attractions across the carnival, don’t forget to explore the diverse live entertainment programme on offer. A highlight is Gandeys Circus’ brand-new winter-themed show, ‘The Winter World Circus’, a new act that adds a delightfully frozen flair to Gandeys’ signature choreo numbers and acrobatics.
When you’re starting to flag, take a breather to dine locally at the food and drinks stalls. Partnering once again with Blue Girl, the AIA Carnival brings back the crowd-favourite Blue Girl Dai Pai Dong, where festivalgoers can feast on authentic dai pai dong dishes while sipping on refreshing Blue Girl draught beer.
Ahead of the carnival’s opening, try spotting entertainers around town for a chance to get free tickets and tokens! Meanwhile, enter the creative competition for a chance to win 1 million Etihad Guest Miles with the event’s official airline partner, Etihad Airways, redeemable for group business return trips between Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi. Find out more at aiacarnival.com/etihad-giveaway.
AIA Carnival will take place at Central Harbourfront from December 22, 2025 to March 1, 2026, with tickets for sale at $140 per person.
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