Hong Kong ushered in 2026 with spectacular fireworks and synchronized light displays across its iconic skyline, as hundreds of thousands gathered along Victoria Harbour to celebrate the first moments of the new year. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government organized a record-breaking pyrotechnic show featuring 26 minutes of continuous fireworks – one minute for each year since the 1997 return to China.
Central district's countdown event drew crowds waving LED lotus flowers, symbolizing the city's resilience, while Tsim Sha Tsui's Avenue of Stars hosted a multicultural performance series blending Cantonese opera with digital art projections. "This celebration shows our unity and confidence in Hong Kong's future," said resident Emily Lau, attending with her family.
The festivities come as Hong Kong enters its third year of post-pandemic recovery, with tourism officials reporting 92% hotel occupancy during the holiday period. Financial Secretary Paul Chan noted the celebrations "reflect our community's vitality and Asia's continued economic significance" in his New Year address.
