The government has earmarked around HK$1.1 billion for tourism bodies to attract visitors to Hong Kong, with monthly pyrotechnic and drone displays, along with a redesigned multimedia show to light up the city’s harbourfront.
Delivering his annual budget speech on Wednesday, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the administration will make good use of Victoria Harbour to offer “many more enchanting moments and experiences” for residents and tourists alike.
“The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will hold pyrotechnic and drone shows against the backdrop of the splendid night views of Victoria Harbour every month. The [board] will also revamp its light-and-sound show, ‘A Symphony of Lights’,” he said.
Chan also said the pyrotechnic shows will cost around HK$1 million each, less than a tenth of the cost of a regular fireworks display, adding that the government may seek sponsorships for the shows.
At harbourfront locations, the Development Bureau will introduce commercial facilities, covering food and drinks, retail and entertainment.
Chan said the HKTB will also develop new seasonal experiences, festivals and events with different themes featuring Chinese and Western arts, pop culture, wine-and-dine and active sports, to attract a wide range of visitors.
“Our Temple Street Night Market promotion, last December, successfully drew tourists and locals alike to this street of distinctive character. The HKTB will offer more diversified activities and promotion to boost the flow of people in the district and create more business opportunities for its merchants,” he added.
The tourism board will also promote immersive, in-depth tourism and activities targeting young adults such as hiking, cycling, stand-up paddle-boarding, trail running and stargazing in the wilderness to “soft-sell” the city, Chan said.
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Last updated: 2024-02-28 HKT 16:35
