If you’re wondering what to do in Hong Kong at the moment, here’s our guide to what’s on in Hong Kong Island this weekend and the coming month, plus events in Kowloon and beyond. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many cool things to do in HK at night just now, but you’ll still find fun activities for the kids and family – plus online Hong Kong events you can enjoy at home. We’ve kept everybody in mind, so you should find something to keep you occupied among our list of top things to do in Hong Kong.
Note: Some events may be affected by current restrictions; refer to individual websites for updates, and see the end of this article for details of rescheduled events.
What to Do This Weekend and Beyond
Fun Activities for Kids & Family
2021 Toyota Dream Car Art Contest
Open to children aged 15 and below, the “Toyota Dream Car Art Contest” invites children all over the world to put on their creative caps and draw their “Dream Car”. The top three artworks from each category will be selected to enter the World Contest in Japan to compete with participants from more than 80 countries around the world. For more details and entry guidelines, visit facebook.com/ToyotaHK.
When: Until 22 January
More: facebook.com/ToyotaHK
The Frozen Exhibition
One of the most talked about events in Asia, the Frozen Exhibition presented by FWD Insurance will land in Hong Kong on 17 November. Park Central will be transformed into an 18,000-square-foot wonderland, divided into 10 themed zones – including a Hong Kong-exclusive zone featuring Elsa’s regal new look and Anna’s Coronation of the Queen of Arendelle.
When: Until 28 February
Where: Park Central, Tseung Kwan O
More: facebook.com/FrozenExhibitionHK
K11 Outside In Jason Freeny Asia XXRAY Experience Store
Running until 28 February, the K11 Outside In Jason Freeny Asia XXRAY Experience Store showcases over 100 sculptures and art toys by award-winning sculptor and toy designer Jason Freeny. The collection features Freeny’s anatomical deconstructions of iconic characters such as the likes of Spongebob Squarepants and the full set of Sesame Street characters. Other highlights include the first-ever life-sized sculpture of XXRAY Cookie Monster.
When: Until 28 February
Where: K11 Art Mall, TST
More: kka.k11.com
Forest Adventure Robocar POLI Live Show
The popular South Korean-American animated children’s television series Robocar POLI will be staging its first-ever live show in Hong Kong on 5 and 6 April. Book by 27 January via SISTIC Hong Kong to enjoy 15% discount off tickets.
When: 5 and 6 April
Where: KITEC, Kowloon
More: sistic.com
More great events in Hong Kong
10 Asian Designers to Watch Virtual Exhibition
The winners of Fashion Asia Hong Kong’s “10 Asian Designers to Watch” programme showcase their collections in this virtual exhibition featuring specially curated 3D showrooms.
When: Until 31 January
Where: Online
More: fashionasiahk.com
You Rise Exhibition by JM Robert
Presenting at Hong Kong art gallery Art Supermarket, You Rise is the solo exhibition of selected works by French street and pop-artist JM Robert. The collection features distinctive portraits, rendered in JM Robert’s free-spirit characteristic, conveying a desire to rise and to be seen in the world of mediocrity.
When: Until 25 February
Where: Art Supermarket, Central
More: artsupermarketasia.com
The MET’s “Nightly Met Opera Streams”
You’ll be missing the regular MET live in HD screenings in Hong Kong but the good news is you can now access encore performances every night. The MET’s “Nightly Met Opera Streams” series brings daily streams of Met Live encores right into your living rooms.
When: Until 31 December
Where: Online
More: themetinhongkong.info
St Peters Lutheran College Brisbane – Virtual Tour
For a great insight into the campus of St Peters Lutheran College, a co-educational day and boarding school in Brisbane, Queensland, visit the school website for a virtual tour.
When: Until 31 December
Where: Online
More: stpeters.youtour.com.au
The Power in Healing Your Biochemistry
Naturopath Alicia Davenport explains how to harness the power of nutritional therapy and personalise your healthcare approach through genomic medicine.
When: 26 January
Where: Online
More: expatliving.secure.force.com
Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Workshop
In this free Facebook Live event, Deepti Chadda, founder of Big Blue Trunk, will demonstrate how to use Annie Sloan Chalk Paint to upcycle furniture in a range of decorative painting techniques.
When: 29 January
Where: Online
More: Register here
Move it for Mental Health 2021
Mind HK’s Move it for Mental Health 2021 challenge aims to raise awareness of the benefits of exercise on our physical and mental health. Participants who complete 50km or more in nature during the month of February will stand a chance to win a prize in the lucky draw.
When: 1 to 28 February
More: moveithk.com
Shrewsbury VIP Digital Campus Tour
Join Shrewsbury International School’s VIP Digital Campus Tour to find out more about the opportunities and experiences offered at the school.
When: 4 February
Where: Online
More: shrewsbury.edu.hk
Altfield Gallery Kimono Exhibition
Altfield Gallery is celebrating the arrival of spring in Hong Kong with a decorative exhibition of vintage Japanese silk kimonos. View the stunning collection at their Central gallery from 3 to 17 March.
When: 3 to 17 March
Where: Altfield Gallery, Central
More: altfield.com.hk
Things to do in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon
Le Cordon Bleu at K11 MUSEA
In partnership with the world’s top cooking academy, Le Cordon Bleu, K11 MUSEA is offering a series of short cookery courses at their Gastronomy Lab. The courses include a range of beginner and advanced level patisserie courses for adults and children.
When: Now!
Where: K11 MUSEA Gastronomy Lab
More: kka.k11.com
Explore the Avenue of Stars
The Avenue of Stars reopened last year after a three-year construction hiatus. Now it’s back, bigger and better than ever and it’s one of our favourite things to do with visitors! Head over to TST to meander along the foreshore and learn about some of Hong Kong’s home-grown stars, including the beloved, Bruce Lee.
When: Now!
Where: TST; to get there, walk from the Star Ferry or from MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit P1; use the staircase or the escalator adjacent to Tsim Sha Tsui East (Mody Road) Bus Terminus
More: avenueofstars.com.hk
American Women’s Association Coffee Morning
The American Women’s Association of Hong Kong holds a weekly coffee morning every Thursday; CHAT – Come Have A Talk. The informal gathering is for member, newcomers and non-members and provides a friendly atmosphere to have a coffee or tea and some “grown-up” time away from the little ones. It’s a drop-in activity so people are welcome to join anytime between 10.30am and noon. The group often stays for lunch.
When: Every Thursday (except public holidays)
Where: Cafe 8, Roof Level, Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Central Ferry Pier No.8, Central
More: awa.org.hk
Cooee Coffee – Australian Association of Hong Kong
The Australian Association of Hong Kong holds a weekly coffee morning, Cooee Coffee, every Friday, which acts as a casual get-together for both newcomers to Hong Kong, as well as a chance to catch up with old friends. In addition to meeting new people, it’s also a chance to get some advice and tips on living in Hong Kong.
When: Every Friday (except public holidays), 10am-12pm
Where: Oolaa Petite Shop 2 Tower 2 Starcrest, 9 Star Street, Wan Chai
More: ozhongkong.com
Be a tourist in your own city
There’s never been a better time to explore Hong Kong. Many of the city’s iconic tourist attractions have minimal crowds and incredible deals right now. If you’re looking for things to do, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has created a special website, hkison.com, which houses all the great deals around town. Check it out and see if there’s a deal that works for you or your guests. You’ll find deals on theme parks, restaurants and staycations. The tourism board have let us know that the site is updated regularly, so keep checking back for the latest.
Wycombe Abbey School Tour
Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong offer daily tours of their Tin Wan Campus during term time, providing prospective parents and students with the opportunity to experience the school in operation. Register for a tour to find out more about the school, tour the facilities and meet the staff.
When: Daily during term time
Where: Tin Wan Campus, 17 Tin Wan Street
More: wycombeabbey.openapply.com/openday
Happy Wednesday at Happy Valley Races
Wednesday night at the Happy Valley Races is a favoured Hong Kong pastime. It costs just HK$10 to get in and see the spectacle of race fans watching world-class horse racing against a backdrop of skyscrapers. During this time of social distancing, the races may be off, but you can stay up to date with the racing world by tuning into the Happy Wednesdays YouTube channel.
When: Every Wednesday all year round (gates open at 5.15pm, first race 7.15pm)
Where: Happy Valley Race Course, Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley
More: hkjc.com | Open Space YouTube Channel
More Must-Do’s in Hong Kong
Explore a park
Take an escalator from Pacific Place mall up to an unexpected oasis. Hong Kong Park contains fountains, an aviary and a children’s playground. Or escape Causeway Bay’s crowds at Victoria Park, where going early will get you a glimpse of local Tai Chi groups. Playground spaces and a rock park keep kids entertained. Meanwhile, Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Garden offers the chance to watch monkeys up close for free.
More: Parks, playgrounds and outdoor centres for the kids
Hang out at the beach!
Hong Kong has too many beaches to count, but all provide just what you need for an enjoyable day out without burning through the cash. Repulse Bay is a must-visit for its accessible and expansive arc of sand. Big Wave Bay is another popular one, attracting surfers to its decent break. And camping bays at Pui O allows you to wake to the sound of rolling waves.
More: Top Hong Kong beaches
See the light show
The city’s iconic skyline takes on a new glow as buildings each side of the harbour beam lights across the water. The Symphony of Lights spectacle takes place every night at 8pm. Head down to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront for the best view and marvel at Hong Kong Island’s skyline at night.
Take in a temple
For a free thing to do that’s instantly transporting, nothing beats a visit to a temple; and Hong Kong has plenty! We’ve already mentioned Wong Tai Sin, but another great temple to see is Man Mo on Hollywood Road. This atmospheric building is one of Hong Kong’s oldest temples, and is dedicated to the god of literature.
More: Must-see temples and places of worship in Hong Kong
Roam a rooftop
IFC Mall’s landscaped rooftop provides one of the city’s few free public seating spots, making it perfect if you bring a coffee and book or plan a city picnic with the kids. The sight of ferries chugging across the harbour never gets old.
Eye some artworks
Galleries along Hollywood Road are an ideal first stop for browsing artworks, but you can also head to the JCCAC artist colony in Shek Kip Mei, where about 140 artists have studios. It’s open from 10am to 10pm daily and is perfect for those who are looking for a Hong Kong attraction that is free and has a cultural flavour.
More: Your guide to Hong Kong’s cultural institutions
Mosey around a market
The vibrant street markets have a lively, bustling energy and provide great people watching, as customers haggle with stallholders. Of course, the cost of this outing will rise if you start buying things! There are also speciality markets such as the fish, bird and flower markets.
Hike in nature
About three quarters of Hong Kong’s land space is Country Park, so getting into green space is surprisingly easy. Central’s Morning Trail is a great first introduction. The paved stroll takes you up to The Galleria at the top of the Peak, with gorgeous city views to boot.
More: Family-friendly hikes in Hong Kong
Chase a waterfall
Why not tie your hike in with a visit to a waterfall? Hong Kong has its fair share, including the famous Bride’s Pool in Plover Cove Country Park, which has a fascinating backstory (follow the link below to discover it!). Some waterfalls here are easily accessible; others require a decent trek to get to. If it’s warm enough, there are some superb swimming opportunities to.
More: 5 of our favourite Hong Kong waterfalls
Hop on a Tram
Jump aboard at Western Market and view the city with new eyes as the tram trundles through Wan Chai and Causeway Bay. It’s just HK$2.30 to experience this piece of iconic local culture.
Cool Things to Do in Hong Kong at Night
Bars, nightclubs and other social venues are currently closed in Hong Kong but we’ll keep you posted as things change. See our list below for some fun activities you can do at home.
Online Things to Do
Enjoy a (free) performance
- Savour the world of art at home with virtually@HKMoA, Hong Kong Art Museum’s online portal which gives the public access to art through a variety of multimedia resources. Browse the website for audio guides, pamphlets, exhibition multi-media programmes and images from the featured collections.
- Stream comedies, cabarets, concerts, art exhibitions and more thanks to the The Social Distancing Festival.
- Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s YouTube channel, The Shows Must Go On!, includes streams of his musicals for free, or you can sing along with Broadway stars performing from their homes as part of Broadway World’s Living Room Concerts.
- Since mid-March, Billboard has been hosting Live At-Home concerts with the likes of Hunter Hayes, Josh Groban and JoJo. Watch them on the Billboard Facebook page.
- Shakespeare’s Globe is offering free streams of plays including A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Romeo and Juliet. Tune in via its YouTube channel.
- Turn your living room into a Disneyland Park, complete with Disney’s iconic parade. Watch the Disney Parks YouTube channel and virtually visit the happiest place on earth.
- Missing your regular club night? Hours and hours of house music was streamed from March through to May as part of the Defected Virtual Festival and is still available on the Defected Records YouTube channel.
Tour a museum (or a famous landmark!)
- Google Arts and Culture is packed full of interesting content. You’ll be able to view digital exhibitions and go on virtual tours at renowned museums and galleries across the world, from the Louvre in Paris to New York’s Guggenheim. There are also virtual tours of famous landmarks, from street views of the Sydney Opera House to the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.
Go to the zoo (via a virtual tour)
- San Diego Zoo and Melbourne Zoo are among many that are bringing the wild and wacky to us. Watch pandas play and lions laze from the 24/7 live feeds in the animal enclosures.
- If seaside scenes are more your vibe, aquariums like the Vancouver Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium have jellyfish, otter and penguin cams.
Travel from home
- Tick off your bucket list with Google Earth or Google Street View, a virtual tour of interactive panoramas from positions along many streets in the world.
- Keen for the outdoors? Explore.org has up to 100 livestream webcams set up in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries around the world that you can view at any given moment – including the spellbinding Northern Lights!
- For those who miss a good night out, Ushuaïa Ibiza has launched #StayAtHomeSessions on Facebook – a re-stream of some of 2019’s best DJ sets from Ibiza, to bring the party atmosphere into your homes!
- Travel to Western Europe with Visit Monaco’s virtual tours. Enjoy 360-degree views of its streets and landmarks, including Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo.
- Travel company andBeyond has a live streaming service where viewers can enjoy wildlife sightings on Instagram Live and interactive three-hour safaris twice a day on YouTube and Facebook.
What’s On in Hong Kong: Best of 2021 Events, Rescheduled
Due to the current coronavirus measures in Hong Kong, the following events have been rescheduled, with new dates as below. Please check individual event websites for the latest information.
Avril Lavigne Head Above Water World Tour 2020: TBA
Singapore Yacht Show: 22-25 April 2021
Affordable Art Fair 2020: 27-30 May 2021
Hong Kong Book Fair: July 2021
Standard Chartered Marathon: 24 October 2021
Hong Kong Sevens: 5-7 November 2021
Clockenflap: 26-28 November 2021
Got an event to add? Contact us at editor@expatliving.hk!
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