The ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Hong Kong

Written by LUXE City Guides

Enjoy the sparkling colourful decorations and Christmas ambiance of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the best places to go for Christmas festivities. Although the city doesn’t offer any real snow, it’s an urban wonderland for Christmas revelry, thanks to its cool and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celcius.

Christmas holds a cherished status in Hong Kong’s holiday calendar, with both Christmas Day and Boxing Day (25 and 26 December) being public holidays. The good news for visitors? Most shops, eateries and bars remain open, ready to extend their warm welcome.

While "Merry Christmas" is universally understood, sprinkle a little local charm by saying "sing daan fai lok" in Cantonese.

Read on for our ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Hong Kong.

Christmas lights and decorations to get you into the festive spirit

During the holidays, Hong Kong lights up into a winter wonderland with an ambiance that can be felt from all over. Streets, shopping malls, offices, and homes are adorned in Christmas decorations during this period to get everyone in the holly, jolly mood. This is also a great time for couples to step out for romantic date nights or friends and family to snap photo memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit Christmas Town for a 20-metre Christmas tree against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour

Experience the magic of Christmas in Hong Kong with a visit to the spectacular Christmas Town, featuring a towering Christmas tree and enchanting festive displays. Come with friends or family and enjoy the warmest and most wondrous ambience at this delightful time of year.

Colourful Christmas lights with the message “Season’s Greetings” at Tsim Sha Tsui East

For other hotspots to feel the magical atmosphere you can wander along Avenue of Stars or Central Harbourfront to admire the Christmas and New Year lights on buildings along Victoria Harbour. Tsim Sha Tsui East is also brimming with plenty of festive illuminations, as is the iconic shopping street in Wan Chai, Lee Tung Avenue, a perennial favourite for Christmas enthusiasts.

While you’re exploring the city’s enchanting scene outdoors, don’t overlook indoor shopping havens that have decked the halls with incredible decor. Major shopping malls across Hong Kong such as Citywalk, Discovery Bay Plaza, Festival Walk, Harbour City, Langham Place, Pacific Place, Times Square and others beckon with their own distinct Christmas charm.

‘Tis the season to shop

In the quest for Christmas charm, Hong Kong's offerings are nothing short of merry and bright. From buying presents and Christmas cards to food for feasts, and outfits for parties, this city is a shopper’s paradise all year round – but especially during the festive season.

At Pottinger Street you can find plenty of Christmas decorations and outfits

Elevate your festive wardrobe with a trip to Mong Kok’s Sai Yee Street and Ladies Market for cheap and cheerful deals on festive attire, souvenirs and decor. Visit Pottinger Street in Central for costumes and more decor, while Tai Yuen Street in Wan Chai and Sham Shui Po’s Fuk Wing Street have a treasure trove of toys suitable for kids and grown-ups alike! There, you’ll discover a delightful array of seasonal attire, from classic Santa hats and crimson cloaks to whimsical antler ears and all things sparkly. These ensembles are often budget-friendly, making them ideal choices for your holiday soirees.

Stalls of the Discovery Bay Christmas Market

Hong Kong also boasts a splendid array of Christmas markets, each with its own unique appeal. Unearth local handicraft treasures at the Discovery Bay Christmas Market, engage in creative workshops at The White Christmas Street Fair, discover a grand showcase of lifestyle and gifts presented by Prestige Fairs, or indulge in face painting and an outdoor cinema at the Family Christmas Bazaar. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the irresistible Christmas sales and exclusive deals available around town to make your season even merrier.

The Lion Rock Press festive ornaments on a Christmas tree

You can also find Hong Kong-themed Christmas cards to send to your loved ones. Head to G.O.D. for fun and punny options, The Lion Rock Press for beautiful Hong Kong-themed gifts and cards, and visit Oelili, a boutique shop in Sai Kung, for local handicrafts and cards from Cha Siu Papers.

Indulge in delectable Christmas feasts and treats

Gingerbread Loaf covered in chocolate from The Mandarin Cake Shop

Indulge in decadent Christmas feasts at acclaimed venues like The Legacy House, Hutong, TokyoLima, and Chaiwala for a taste of festive gastronomy. Additionally, hotels throughout the city, like JW Marriott, East Hong Kong, Hotel Icon, and The Murray, host an array of Christmas brunches and buffets to satisfy your holiday cravings.

Go to The Mandarin Cake Shop to get a gingerbread loaf, DIY your gingerbread house by purchasing one from city’super, and get minced pies and other festive delights from Nina Patisserie.

Information in this article is subject to change without advance notice. Please contact the relevant product or service providers for enquiries.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board disclaims any liability as to the quality or fitness for purpose of third party products and services; and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.