December 21, 2025 | 05:12 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Hong Kong government has canceled its New Year’s Eve fireworks display for 2026, replacing the traditional countdown celebration with a street-level event along Chater Road in Central.
As reported by Lifestyle Asia on Thursday, December 18, 2025, the iconic fireworks show over Victoria Harbour, which typically draws large crowds of residents and tourists, will not take place on December 31, 2025.
The decision was made to scale back festivities and adopt a more subdued atmosphere following a recent fatal fire in the Tai Po district.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board said the relocated New Year countdown event at the Chater Road pedestrian zone is intended to convey positive energy, compassion, and prayers for peace for both local residents and visitors, while welcoming the new year with hope.
Detailed information about the replacement celebration in Central has yet to be announced.
Under normal circumstances, Hong Kong hosts one of Asia’s most vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations. In 2024, for instance, the event themed “Symphony of Happiness” featured four fireworks displays over Victoria Harbour, lasting a total of 12 minutes, along with live performances by local and international artists, according to Time Out.
Despite the cancellation of the fireworks, authorities anticipate a significant increase in visitor numbers during the year-end holiday period. To manage crowds, the government is coordinating enhanced arrangements at border crossings and public transportation services.
Most MTR lines will operate overnight on December 31, with extended East Rail Line services to Lo Wu. Connecting bus services to the Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang checkpoints will also run 24 hours. Additional transport services to major tourist areas will be deployed if needed.
Even without the signature fireworks display, Hong Kong’s New Year 2026 celebrations are expected to remain meaningful, with a renewed emphasis on reflection, calm, and collective hope.
Read: Where to Go During Christmas for Australians? Here's Top 10 Countries to Explore
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