If you had your heart set on catching a magnificent display of fireworks over Victoria Harbour on December 31 to ring in 2026, we have disappointing news: Hong Kong has cancelled its popular annual fireworks show, and will relocate its New Year’s Eve countdown event to the Chater Road pedestrian zone in Central instead.
In the official statement released by the Hong Kong Tourism Board on Wednesday, December 17, no reason was given for the change, but it’s not a huge stretch to imagine this decision had most likely come about in light of the recent tragedy in Tai Po last month.
Under regular circumstances, Hong Kong puts on quite a show for the annual NYE countdown programme. In 2024, for example, the ‘Symphony of Happiness’ themed celebration featured four captivating fireworks displays over Victoria Harbour totalling 12 minutes, in addition to live performances by local and international singers and dancers. Whether we will get as much fanfare this year following the transplant of the NYE countdown programme to the Chater Road pedestrian zone remains to be seen. One thing’s for sure: elaborate fireworks will not be part of the equation.
As of today, not much other information about the alternative arrangements has emerged, but all posts on the Hong Kong Tourism Board social media accounts have said that event details will be coming soon. All we know is, for better or for worse, at least there won’t be the usual need to post up at the Victoria Harbour promenade for hours ahead of midnight just to secure the best spot to ooh and aah at the fireworks show.
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