What to do in Hong Kong?

There is so much going on in Hong Kong. From shopping to shows to kids’ activities, here’s our list of what’s new and happening around the city this season for all the family.

Stage Your Home for a Sale

Founded by Australian interior designer Noelle Bramley, Embellish Property Staging helps homeowners present their properties to achieve faster sales and higher prices in Hong Kong’s crowded property market. With a designer’s touch and deep property insight, Noelle transforms spaces through three tailored services: smart reorganisation and decluttering for occupied sales homes, impactful on-site staging to enhance key areas such as terraces or open-plan living spaces, and digital staging for online listing and visualisation purposes. She partners with agents and independent homeowners to craft staging strategies that sell. embellishhk.com

Ancient Egypt Comes Alive

The Hong Kong Palace Museum has joined forces with Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities to present Ancient
Egypt Unveiled: Treasures from Egyptian Museums. The exhibition brings 250 artefacts and recent archaeological discoveries directly from Egypt – the first such loan to Hong Kong – allowing visitors to delve into the lives, beliefs and craftsmanship of this fascinating ancient civilisation. The project also highlights the cultural connection between China and Egypt on the eve of their 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. Until 31 August 2026, Gallery 9. hkpm.org.hk

Little Actors, Big Worlds

Running from 26 December to 2 January, the Paper Bag Princess Drama Camp by KYD (Kill Your Darlings) Theatre gives young performers aged five to 12 the chance to step into an exciting eight-day theatre adventure, exploring acting, character creation, movement, scriptwriting and stage design. Guided by teaching artists, they’ll rehearse for three hours each day, building confidence and clear storytelling through practical, hands-on sessions. The group will then perform The Paper Bag Princess in the Fringe Club Studio Theatre, working with real lighting and sound, and costumes they can keep. Families receive tickets to the final performance too! 6417 1293 | killyourdarlingstheatre.com

A Winter Glow

Hong Kong WinterFest is turning Central into a lively winter scene filled with colour and music. Visitors can wander through a Christmas Town in Statue Square Garden, with giant toy displays and a 20-metre tree lighting up the area. Chater Road, meanwhile, has transformed into Starlight Boulevard, guiding people under glowing branches towards festive sights. Eight landmark buildings have joined the celebration, too, with a coordinated light show featuring seasonal characters and music. A Christmas market, carols and appearances by Santa add to the cheer. Check out the WinterFest online platform to explore seasonal events across the city. bit.ly/HK-WinterFest

Upcoming in Central

Henderson Land has announced a brandnew development that looks set to become a harbourfront icon in Hong Kong. Central Yards is an iconic “groundscraper” that will span almost half a kilometre of Victoria Harbour, offering over 1.6 million square feet of retail, office and lifestyle space, along with Broadway-calibre theatre and Central’s largest sky garden for urban biodiversity. Phase 1 is set to unfold in 2027. hld.com

Magic Returns on Christmas Eve

In its fifth triumphant year, Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker: A Hong Kong Adventure invites audiences on a magical journey through early 20th-century Hong Kong. Opening on 12 December, the production features the Hong Kong Ballet and follows Clara, Fritz and the Nutcracker Prince as they battle the mischievous Rat King to restore peace to their enchanted world. Along their quest, they encounter peacocks, nimble jockeys, playful dim sum and radiant bauhinias, all set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. Expect new surprises, vivid costumes and stunning sets from this award-winning show. visit.hkballet.com/Nut25-expatliving

Sai Ying Pun Playground

A new waterfront park in Sai Ying Pun is opening in December, bringing a lively new play space for families. It will feature a cloudshaped inflatable playground, water and sand areas, and a rotating platform that welcomes wheelchair users. Children were invited to join trial runs so designers could tweak the layout for maximum fun and safety. The park also offers swings, slides, an observation deck, and practical additions such as a baby care room and snack kiosk. The nearby East Coast Boardwalk’s eastern section will also begin phased openings in December.

The Beauty of Ballet

A new season is beginning at Venus Villa Dance Academy, where ballet students of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in training. With a dedicated team of professional instructors, the academy’s focus on technique, artistry and self-expression empowers each student to reach their fullest potential. Enrol and take the first step to discover the beauty of ballet, through exciting classes, inspiring performances and a supportive community that celebrates every journey. venusvilladanceacademy.com

Puzzles With Heart

The Lion Rock Press has introduced a set of five pocket-sized puzzles designed for everyone to enjoy. Each puzzle has 100 normal-sized pieces, offering just the right balance of challenge and fun, featuring Hong Kong-inspired artwork on one side and thoughtful quotes on the other. The puzzles are light, travel friendly and suitable for family bonding, quiet solo moments or keeping kids engaged while out and about. They’re created with eco-friendly materials, and combine creativity with mindfulness in a simple yet meaningful way. thelionrockpress.com

Capturing Childhood Memories

The team from Kidvolio has joined forces with Kids’ Gallery to give young artists a special way to preserve their creative work. The project centres on a custom-made art book that showcases pieces created during the Kids’ Gallery’s Regular Term Art Portfolio Course. Each book includes a full year’s artwork, a choice of two five-page themed layouts, 25 bilingual captions, and easy campus drop-off; the personalised art books of their course creations are available for $758. The collaboration aims to help children see their artistic growth and for parents to treasure those memories in print for years. kidvolio.com

Books as Quiet Therapy

Bhakti Mathur is Hong Kong’s first bibliotherapist – someone who guides others toward healing and self-discovery through books. With a deep love for reading and writing, she offers sessions to help people explore emotions, ease anxiety and find direction in difficult times. Bibliotherapy has existed for over 2,000 years; Bhakti continues this tradition by helping readers connect with stories that speak to their lives. Whether you’re facing a dilemma or seeking peace, the right book may be the beginning of change. bhaktimathur.com

Experiencing Space

The Discovery Dome Mobile Planetarium brings the wonders of the universe straight to schools. Inside the inflatable dome, students kick off on a vivid journey through stars, galaxies and planets – all without leaving campus! Led by an experienced international school teacher,
the curriculum-aligned visits ignite STEM curiosity and wonder in students. Whether it’s part of a science lesson or a school fair, the dome creates a lasting impression that inspires curiosity and wonder. Educators value its ability to connect to the curriculum while thrilling young minds. discoverydome.hk

Wonder Walls

Just Climb is opening a new branch at Kai Tak Sports Park, bringing Hong Kong’s only fully covered multi-discipline climbing wall to the city. The official opening’s first feature is an eight-metre auto-belay wall. In October, climbers can look forward to the instalment of a 17.5-metre lead wall, the tallest in HK. This new venue aims to encourage more people to embrace climbing as both a sport and a lifestyle. justclimb.hk

Play Without Limits

Kai Tak Sports Park has opened Playfield 5, a 4,300-square-metre playground located in its North Garden. Inspired by the Chinese Five Elements – Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth – the space invites kids to explore through colour, texture and movement. From sand pits and a boulder wall to two soaring play towers, trampolines and a zip line, the playground mixes learning and adventure. Children of all abilities are welcomed to play side by side. kaitaksportspark.com.hk

Premium Taxis Within Reach

Dash has officially teamed up with SynCab, Hong Kong’s first licensed premium taxi fleet, to meet rising rider demand. The partnership allows commuters to book both traditional and premium taxis from one platform. Operating across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and Lantau, SynCab brings its six seater vehicles into Dash’s luxury category, giving riders more options and flexibility. This collaboration aims to improve access for passengers while also opening up better earning opportunities for drivers. d-ash.com

Special offer on winning wines!

The second Market Place Wine Awards were held recently, with a panel of 12 highly respected wine experts choosing 17 award-winning wines from around the world, after a rigorous blind-tasting judging process. Judges tasted from over 150 bottles, rating wines according to Aroma, Palate, Structure and Finish; 28 bottles were listed as finalists, with 17 winners emerging as the best of the best for different drinking occasions. The newly introduced Best Wine Award went to Champagne house Moët & Chandon for its Grand Vintage 2016. 

Here’s just a small taste – pun intended! – of the judges’ recommendations:

• Tscharke Reserve Blanc
• Cloudy Bay Chardonnay
• Marqués de Riscal Reserva 
• Villain & Vixen Grenache
• Domaine De Chaude Ecuelle Chablis Wine 
• Chateau D’ Issan 2017 

The best part? There’s a limited-time promotion on all of the award-winning selections. From now until 14 August, enjoy a “Second Bottle at Half Price” offer (valid for the same wine) when purchasing the winning wines at Market Place stores or via the Market Place online store. For example, the 5th Generation Chardonnay from Eden Valley, Australia, is available for as little as $97.50 through this offer.  

For the Perfect Pint

Guinness has unveiled its pocket‑sized, rechargeable NitroSurge device in Hong Kong. The gadget uses a precision ultrasonic transducer to recreate the famous two‑part pour of Guinness Draught at home, producing fine nitrogen bubbles for a smooth, creamy pint every time. The award winning technology lets local beer fans enjoy the pub experience without leaving their kitchens, promising consistent quality with every can – and making summer gatherings even better! guinness.com

A Smart Workout!

Technogym is bringing its new Connected Dumbbells to Hong Kong in July, expanding a story that began in founder Nerio Alessandri’s garage back in 1983. The tidy set not only replaces a dozen separate weights, but each handle also hides sensors that record every lift and sync with the Technogym App. Users receive instant feedback and programmes matched to their goals, whether building power or easing into fitness. technogym.com/en-HK

Venture Beyond the Solar System

Love stargazing? The Hong Kong Space Museum has a brand new show, running from now until November, which traverses 13.8 billion years of cosmic history in search of the origins of the universe! You’ll explore the spiral arms of the Milky Way and witness the birth and death of stars, as you seek the very first light of our existence. Tickets to Starmap to the Unseen Universe start from $30 and are available on Urbtix and at the museum box office. hk.space.museum/en

More Hong Kong news

Great Work Vibes

The best spots for working remotely combine the vibe and facilities of a café, library and co-working space. This is exactly what you can expect at any of the six Desk-one locations in HK. These collaborative spaces are great if you need to work, study or read with a hot beverage in hand! Providing a study on demand location, all the branches offer a Reading Lounge, Quiet Focus Zone or Private Room to set up in. Plus, there are places for team meetings, a temporary office, small classes and more! desk-one.hk

Crafternoons, Art Activities & More

You’ll know Bookazine for its bookstores (and regular book reviews in each issue of Expat Living!), but it also offers events and workshops for the community that go beyond its fab book clubs. Taking place at a newly opened space called Bookazone Social in Tai Kwan, these creative activities include stamping, watercolouring, bargello and candle making, with plenty more to come for adults and kids alike. Stay in the loop at bit.ly/bookazinesocial.

Our Readers’ Choice Awards are Back!

Do you want to spread the good word about your favourite businesses in Hong Kong? The Expat Living Readers’ Choice Awards are kicking off in November, giving
you the chance to vote for your favourite hair salon, grocer, café, health provider and much more. You’ll not only reward them with recognition for their hard work, but there will also be some amazing prizes up for grabs for voters. Sign up to our newsletter so you don’t miss it! expatliving.hk/news

Join the Team!

The Hong Kong Development Basketball League (HKDBL) is one of the most active and competitive women’s basketball leagues in HK’s English-speaking community. Competitions are held Tuesday or Thursday at Central and Western LCSD basketball courts; come along to watch the games or join in the next season, starting 3 September. For more information, contact 9170 1104 (WhatsApp) or jess@hongkongdbl.com, or visit hongkongdbl.com or the Facebook, Instagram or YouTube pages.

Pampering for All Ages

There are three new experiences at MiraSpa to cover all the best celebrations with loved ones. For kids aged five to 13, the Celebration Package includes a choice of a pampering mani or pedi (using non-toxic and child-friendly nail polish that can be peeled off without nail polish remover), plus fab party foods and goodie bags. The Ultimate Celebration Package adds access to the indoor infinity pool and a full
mani-pedi treatment for each child. For adults, MiraSpa has a new couples package – ideal for an anniversary or a romantic surprise for your partner. The Sakura & Sake Spa Ritual (available until 30 June) includes over two hours of pampering starting with a welcome sake and cake before a 90-minute aromatherapy massage, jacuzzi bath and steam shower. Plus, you can linger longer and relax on a waterbed lounge, take a dip in the infinity pool or make use of the gym throughout the day.

2315 5500 | miraspa@themirahotel.com

Groovy Friday Nights

To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is introducing a luxury nightlife experience in collaboration with local and international nightlife visionaries. “The Aubrey After Dark” pays homage to the beginnings of HK nightlife in the early 1960’s, the same period The Mandarin opened. Every Friday night, expect a curated series of events blending soulful house and disco with innovative sounds from the underground scenes of London, New York and Paris. International DJs will be paired with local talent to create a mix of Classic Disco and Chicago House enriched with music genres like Amapiano and Afro and Latin vibes.

Find out more here!

HK-inspired Reading

The next instalment of the Holly-Mei series by Christina Matula, The Not So-Simple Question, is out now! The series is about a Taiwanese British girl finding her place in a new world of private schools and frenemies when her family moves to Hong Kong. Inspired by her time studying at HKU, the author has packed these stories with humour and heart, while exploring themes of displacement, self-discovery and adolescent friendship that all middle-grade readers can relate to! Make sure to read The Not-So Uniform-Life of Holly-Mei and The Not-So-Perfect Plan first; the third book will be on sale in April.

Say it with RokSaan

Earlier this year, the team behind The Lion Rock Press realised that in a world where digital connections are on the rise, there was still an innate desire for heartfelt, tangible expressions of love, gratitude and best wishes. So they set their minds to finding a way to bridge the gap between charming traditional card giving and technology. The result is RokSaan, a greeting card platform where local artists and creators can share their talents, and you can purchase personalised cards for all occasions. For as little as $59, senders can customise card designs, include their own message and photos (with an option to add a thoughtful, locally-sourced gift), and have the card sent directly to the recipient’s door. roksaan.com

A Staycation for Creatives

If you’re interested in an eclectic, creative and design-forward hotel, you’ll love the Mondrian Hong Kong. Designed by Karin Krautgartner of KK Design and a selection of local and international artists, this hotel aims to be a new HK icon, inspired by lively fishing villages and the city’s renowned tailors. The triangular windows offer sweeping harbour and island skyline views, the bathroom tiles reflect our pebbled beaches, and you’ll find beautiful fabrics, glass chandeliers, underwater creatures engraved along corridors, a water goddess mural and more. bit.ly/mondrianhk

Uncovering Hong Kong

You could spend a lifetime discovering the interesting layers of Hong Kong. So to start you off, join one of the small group tours run by Angel, a local who is passionate about her home. Angel’s upcoming explorations include immersive experiences in Sham Shui Po and at the Aberdeen Dragon Boat Festival and Tai O Hau Wong Festival. All tours can be found at hkgreeters.com/group tours, and you can find out more by following @explore_hongkong.

Worried about Web Fraud?

There’s been plenty of discussion about web fraud lately, so we’d like to draw your attention to a government website that can help you to see if you have been targeted by an online scammer. All you need to do is put some details into the search bar of this website: cyberdefender.hk/en-us.

Easy Access to Overseas Products

Missing some of your favourite everyday products from back home? Spot On Dealz is an online retailer that sources high-quality products from Europe, the UK, Japan, Korea and elsewhere and offers them right here in Hong Kong. Expect to find beauty and skincare items, cleaning products, furniture, electrical appliances, snacks, seasonal goods and more, which you can shop online, with free delivery for purchases of $250 or more. Spot On also has a physical store in Kowloon Bay with exclusive offers on children’s toys, household items and electronics, starting from just $10!

Special offer: Expat Living readers can enjoy 12 percent off at Spot On by using promotion code Expat12 (T&Cs apply).

spotondealz.com.hk

More Wild Critters!

Hot off the success of Bugs of Hong Kong, author Robert Ferguson has released his latest book, a captivating guide to the remarkable wildlife found in HK. Did you know that there are 130 known species of dragonflies alone in our midst? Find out more interesting facts and scientific detail in Wild Creatures of Hong Kong, presented in a handy reference format. There’s a page for each animal including key identification features and stunning colour photos. Buy it from The Lion Rock Press, Bookazine and Robert’s website, wildcreatureshongkong.org

An Upcoming Mall

New shopping and office development AIRSIDE will have a soft opening in Q3 this year, featuring a 1.9 million square-foot skyscraper with 32 floors of office space and a 700,000-square-foot shopping mall. With a focus on sustainability, the mall offers visitors a one-stop shopping experience with convenient transport links and amenities including premium retail stores, F&B outlets, art and culture spaces, a cinema – even an indoor surfing centre! The mall is also pet friendly with dedicated dining outlets, stores and green spaces for fur-kids. Find out more at airside.com.hk.

VIP Club in Central

Recently opened on Lyndhurst Street in Central is Whale Club, an exclusive members-only club featuring VIP rooms, a bar and gallery, and a cigar room. Described as a private “playground” of luxe escapism in the heart of Hong Kong, members can kick back and enjoy plush comforts, like-minded company, culinary experiences, themed events, art and NFT showcases, game-playing and private celebrations – something to cater to every whim! Individual and corporate membership plans are available.

Visit whaleclub.vip or call 2506 0880 for more information.

Greener Transport

After two years in the making, the first pure electric public minibus from EV Dynamics has commenced service in Hong Kong. The APEX Mini is one of eight new models of electric minibus selected by the government for a trial of 40 minibuses across HK. It’s estimated there are around 3,000 Public Light Buses in operation, and despite some converting from LPG to diesel, they are still major air polluters in our crowded streets. The new minibus is the first pure electric, fully accessible public minibus in a new era of eco-friendly and socially inclusive public transportation. And that can only be good news!

Holistic Fitness

Renowned founder of Cookie DPT and CARBON, Wil Fang, has joined forces with three leading figures in the local fitness industry (Jess Shih, Soojin Leu, and Dan Yeung) to open holistic wellness destination Renation. Far from a regular gym, the expansive studio on the third floor at H Code in Pottinger Street, features four distinct areas, all designed to provide holistic offerings catered to different facets of wellness and health. At one end of the space, “Recycle” is dedicated to rhythmic cycling, and at the other, “Recondition” offers strength and conditioning classes. “Recover” offers an area to rest and stretch with the help of physiotherapists and sports masseuses and “Recharge” is a juice and smoothie bar where you can enjoy a signature Spirulina Colada and other healthy treats.

Find out more at renation.com.

A Tribute to Hong Kong!

Premium stationer and gift brand The Lion Rock Press has launched the latest in its range of luxury 1000-piece double-sided jigsaw puzzles. Entitled “Tribute to Hong Kong”, the puzzle was created by The Lion Rock Press Founder Claire Yates alongside art therapist Katie Flowers, by cutting phrases and images from The South China Morning Post’s Post Magazine (diligently saved by Claire’s grandparents every week). The resulting collage depicts defining moments, forgotten details and unique idiosyncrasies in the form of icons, characters, street scenes, wildlife, well-loved foods and other familiar memories of Hong Kong from over the years.

Find it at online at thelionrockpress.com.