Lunar New Year in Hong Kong: A Comprehensive Guide for Insiders
As the Year of the Snake slithers in, Hong Kong transforms into a vibrant tapestry of traditions, colors, and celebrations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, immersing yourself in the city’s Chinese New Year (CNY) festivities is a must. Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating the dress code, mastering essential lingo, and making the most of CNY nights in 2025.
Dressing the Part: CNY Dress Code
- Embrace Red & Gold: These vibrant hues symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Think cheerful reds, shimmering golds, and auspicious patterns like dragons and phoenixes.
- Avoid Black & White: These colors are associated with mourning and are considered inauspicious during CNY.
- New Year, New Clothes: Traditionally, people wear new clothes for the first few days of the new year to symbolize a fresh start and good luck.
- Consider the Occasion: While festive attire is key, dress respectfully when visiting temples or attending family gatherings.
Essential Cantonese Greetings
Learning a few basic Cantonese phrases will not only enhance your experience but also impress the locals:
- “Kung Hei Fat Choy” (ęåē¼č²”): “Congratulations and Prosperous Fortune” – The quintessential CNY greeting.
- Sun Tai Geen Hong (čŗ«é«å„åŗ·) ā Wishing you good health
- Sun Nin Fai Lok (ę°å¹“åæ«ęØ) ā Happy New Year
- Man See Yu Yee (č¬äŗå¦ę) ā May all go well with you
Upcoming CNY Celebrations around Hong Kong
(Photo credit to Discover Hong Kong)
1. Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade
Step out from Dash Living on Prat and into the vibrant streets of Tsim Sha Tsui. Watch dazzling floats and mesmerizing performances light up the night as we welcome the Year of the Snake in style. Donāt miss this iconic celebration, just moments from your doorstep!
Date: 29 Jan 2025
Time:Ā 8:00 PM – 9:45 PM
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui, view parade route here
(Photo credit to Timeout)
2. Lunar New Year Eve Fair
Step into the festive spirit at Causeway Bay’s iconic Victoria Park Lunar New Year Eve Fair. With over 395 vibrant booths, you’ll find everything from auspicious flowers and quirky gadgets to plush toys and dazzling festive dĆ©cor .
Date: 23-28 Jan 2025
Time:Ā 8:00 AM – 12 AM
Location: Victoria Park, 1 Hing Fat St, Causeway Bay
(Photo credit to Hong Kong Tourism Board)
3. Lunar New Year Fireworks
Ring in the Year of the Snake with a dazzling Lunar New Year fireworks display over Victoria Harbour. This awe-inspiring spectacle will light up both sides of the harbor, promising an unforgettable evening of vibrant colors and festive cheer.
Date: 30 Jan 2025
Time:Ā 8PM
Location: Victoria Harbour, 15 mins stroll from Dash Living on Prat
4. Lai See Reuse and Recycle Program
This Lunar New Year, Dash Living invites you to join our Reuse & Recycle Lai See envelopes during your stay. Grab your reborn red packets at the front desk and spread festive cheer while reducing waste. Letās give these lucky red packets a second life and celebrate sustainably.Ā
Date: From now until 7 Feb 2025
Location: Dash Living on Queenās, Dash Living on Hollywood, Dash Living on Prat
5. Dash into Luck
Follow us on Instagram to receive a unique Fai Chun sticker. Adorn your luggage with this symbol of good fortune and carry the blessings of the Lunar New Year with you on every adventure. Let your travels be filled with prosperity and joy as you embrace the spirit of the season. Join us in spreading happiness and luck wherever you go!
Date: From now until 11 Feb 2025
Location: Dash Living on Queenās, Dash Living on Hollywood, Dash Living on Prat
Join us and experience the magic of Chinese New Year in Hong Kong. From vibrant parades and dazzling fireworks to unique cultural experiences that will leave you enchanted, we’ll be your guide to these unforgettable festive adventures. Capture the magic and share your festive moments with the hashtag #dashlivinghk ā let’s celebrate together!
Tips for First-Timers
- Embrace the Crowds: CNY is a peak travel season, so expect large crowds and long queues.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Hotels and guesthouses fill up quickly, so book your stay with us in advance.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local traditions and customs. refrain from cleaning or washing clothes on the first day of the new year.
- Embrace the Lai See Tradition: “Lai See” (å©ęÆ) are red envelopes containing money, traditionally given by elders to children and unmarried adults.
Experience the magic of Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year firsthand. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, immerse yourself in the culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Dash Living on Prat
Nestled in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, Dash Living on Prat offers chic, fully-furnished rooms designed for modern urban living. Enjoy all-inclusive perks like weekly housekeeping, high-speed Wi-Fi, and exclusive access to vibrant community events. With endless dining, shopping, and transport options just steps away, itās your perfect home in the city.
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