Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Hong Kong will usher in 2026 without its iconic New Year fireworks at Victoria Harbor, marking an unusual shift in the city’s festive traditions following a devastating fire in November that resulted in over 161 fatalities.
In lieu of the customary pyrotechnic display, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has organized a musical event in Central on New Year’s Eve, featuring performances by the soft rock duo Air Supply and several other artists. At the stroke of midnight, the facades of eight landmark buildings will light up as massive countdown clocks, illuminated by a brief three-minute light show.
Fireworks have historically been integral to celebrations in Hong Kong, gracing occasions like the New Year, Lunar New Year, and National Day, drawing large crowds of both residents and tourists to the harbor promenade to enjoy the spectacle against the backdrop of the skyline.
Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, recognized that the lack of fireworks would significantly affect hotels and restaurants that depend on holiday tourism.
This decision comes after the city experienced its worst fire incident since 1948, which took place at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po district. The blaze swiftly engulfed an apartment complex under renovation, worsened by poor-quality bamboo scaffolding and hazardous materials. Many residents were left displaced and currently reside in temporary housing, grappling with the aftermath of this immense tragedy.
Previously, Hong Kong has also canceled fireworks following incidents such as the 2012 ferry collision that claimed 39 lives and during significant protests in 2019, as well as in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Fireworks have their roots in Chinese history, originating with the use of bamboo to create sounds when heated in fire, dating back to the second century B.C. The monk Li Tian from the Tang dynasty is credited for the creation of the first documented firecracker to drive away evil spirits during celebrations.
English
