The Spring Lantern Festival marks the first full moon of the lunar calendar, and the last day of the almost two-week-long Chinese New Year celebrations.
What happens?
This ancient tradition of lantern making goes back thousands of years, using natural materials such as bamboo, wheat, paper and silk. Over time the art form flourished, with lanterns becoming more intricate, as well as bigger and more inventive.
The lanterns can take any shape, and as 2025 is the Year of the Snake, you can definitely expect to see some interesting lanterns displayed prominently. Other auspicious symbols are goldfish, fruit, and, of course, dragons, as a symbol of power and strength.
Schedule 2025
The Lunar New Year Lantern Carnival will take place at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre from January 23 to February 16, with a lantern display at the Piazza throughout and a special carnival from February 7 to 12 in the Piazza, Foyer, and Covered Piazza Area. The lanterns will light up daily from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m..
Admission is free, and performances will be in Cantonese and Putonghua.
How to get there
From Central Station, take the MTR Tsuen Wan Line to Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit E) and walk about 5 minutes to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre via Nathan Road and Salisbury Road.
Alternatively, enjoy a scenic ride on the Star Ferry from Central Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui Pier, followed by a 5-10 minute walk to the venue.
