The month would typically start with the spectacular fireworks display for National Day on October 1st. At this time, fireworks have not yet been announced for the 2023 celebrations but we hope for the return of this fantastic and widely awaited event and the many fests and cultural celebrations.
As the flashy lanterns of the Mid-Autumn Festival wrap it up for the season, the pumpkins and goblins will be getting started as Halloween celebrations start to ramp up! Here's what's happening this October in Hong Kong...
Hong Kong Highlight Celebrations and Events in October 2023
- National Day Events - October 1, 2023
- Macau Fireworks Contest - September 9, 16, 23, October 1, 7, 2023
- Chinese Opera Festival - June 16 - October 8, 2023
- Freespace Jazz Fest - the West Kowloon Jazz Festival - October 3 - 8 and October 26, 2023
- Global Sources Consumer Electronics, Mobile Electronics, Gifts and Fashion Trade Exhibitions - October 11 - 21, 2023
- Hong Kong Tennis Open - October 7 - 15, 2023
- Chung Yeung Festival - October 23, 2023
- Hong Kong Disneyland Haunted Halloween Celebrations - September 16 to October 31, 2023
- Ocean Park Halloween Fest 2023 - September 15 to October 31, 2023
- More Halloween 2023 celebrations - Through October 31, 2023
- The New World Harbour Race - formerly the Cross Harbour Race - This year in November
- Hong Kong Cyclothon - October 22, 2023
- Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival - October 26 - 29, 2023
Hong Kong Attractions, Tours, Activities and Things To Do This October 2023
- The Peak Tram, Peak Tower, Sky Terrace
- Ocean Park - Get discount tickets
- Water World Ocean Park - Get discount tickets
- Hong Kong Disneyland - Get discount tickets
- Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours are running daily
- Sky100 Observation Deck - Special Offers
- Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car - Book Standard or Crystal Cabin
- Harbour Cruises have restarted, the following have resumed sailings:
- Fantastic outdoor excursions: hiking, kayaking, swimming, mountain biking, paddleboarding...
- Lion Rock Sunset Hiking Adventure - Victoria Harbour's most dramatic summit - 4 hours, starts from Wong Tai Sin MTR station
- Geopark Kayaking Adventure - 7 hours, meets at Hang Hau MTR Station
- The Mai Po Nature Reserve is OPEN, the WWF offers eco-visits Thrusdays through Sundays, which is the easiest way to visit the reserve without having to get a government permit. You can book an eco-visit here
- Hong Kong Wetland park - is open daily, the Mudflat Hide has also reopened
- Sai Kung Standup-Paddle Adventure - 5 hours, meets at Hang Hau MTR station
- Hike the Yellow Dragon Gorge Nature Trek in Lantau Island - 5 hours, meets at Tung Chung MTR station on Lantau Island
- Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure - 4 hours, meets at Tai Po Market MTR station
- Tai Mo Shan Waterfall Hike the tallest waterfall in Hong Kong - 4 hours, meets at Tai Wo MTR station
- The Dragon's Back Hike and Tai Long Wan Beach - 5 hours, meets at Shau Kei Wan MTR station
- Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure - 6 hours, starts at Heng On MTR ends in Saikung town
- Tolo Harbour Cycling Adventure - 4 hours, meets at Tai Po Market MTR Station
For Kids and Families
- Hong Kong Disneyland Haunted Halloween Celebrations - mid-September to October 31, 2023
- Ocean Park Halloween Fest 2023 - October 2023
Also check-out these popular ongoing events during October 2023:
- Free cultural exhibitions: Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Feng Shui
- The Symphony of Lights, Hong Kong's light and sound show
- It's race time! The Horse Races at Happy Valley are on!
Hong Kong Celebrates National Day
October 1, 2023 marks the 74th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. To commemorate the occassion, a series of events are planned every year including the flag raising ceremonies and parades and a lavish fireworks display which lits up the whole of Victoria Harbour.
Fireworks can be seen from both sides of the Harbour. In the Kowloon side, they can be viewed in Tsim Sha Tsui all along the Promenade and Avenue of the Stars as well as the Hung Hom Bypass. In the Hong Kong Island side, there are many vantage points in Central,
Wanchai, Causeway Bay and the Midlevels.
When?: October 1, 2023, Fireworks at 9:00 pm
Where?: Wherever there's a view of Victoria Harbour
How Much?: Free!
Chinese Opera Festival
"Chinese Opera encapsulates the long history and traditional culture of China. The immaculately crafted movements of the hands, the eyes, the body and the feet of the actors are unique to a whole system of Chinese performing arts."
This art form has been around for centuries and to foster a better understanding of this ancient art, the Hong Kong Leisure and Cultural Services Department brings the annual Chinese Opera Festival to the community.
If you have never experienced this unique kind of traditional art, this is your chance! The festival will offer stage performances by some of the leading Companies in the genre. Besides the stage performances, the festival also puts together an array of events from symposiums, Chinese Opera film screenings and exhibitions.
When?: June thru October. Exact dates TBA You can also check out these 7 places to discover Cantonese Opera in Hong Kong
Where?: Stage performances are held at a variety of venues, including the fabulous Grand Theatre at Xiqu Centre, in the West Kowloon Cultural District, in itself worth a visit. Also very convenient for visitors are the Grand Theatre at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre at the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade as well as the Hong Kong City Hall in Central.
How Much? Ticket prices vary depending on event.
- Tickets for a stage performance at the Xiqu Center for example range from HK180 - HK480, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre from HK 100 - HK 350.
- Discounts are available to students and seniors.
Freespace Jazz Fest - the West Kowloon Jazz Festival
Featuring more than 500 musicians from around the world at this flagship music fest over 7 days of music, art, and family-friendly activities at several venues at the West Kowloon Cultural District.
Jazzscapes, featuring performances by musicians from South Africa, mainland China, Poland, USA, the U.K. etc, will present three sessions of diverse jazz styles, ranging from punk and electronica to fusion and world music at the Wonderland, the outdoor venue next to the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
For kids and families there will be an interactive production of The Jazz Hero on October 7 and 8, and fun activities, arts and crafts market, DJ booths, food and drink throughout the festival.
On the final night of the festival on October 26, the Xiqu Centre Grand Theatre will feature international jazz diva Stacey Kent and American pianist Art Hirahara and British saxophonist Jim Tomlinson in a trio concert.
When?: October 3 to 8 and October 26, 2023
Where?: West Kowloon Cultural District
How Much?: Lots of FREE events at the Great Lawn, Harbourside Lawn - West, M+ and more. Ticketed events from HK$160, Jazzscapes 1-day pass HK$680, 3-day pass HK$1,450 (freestanding)
Global Sources Trade Exhibitions
9,000 booths with the latest in electronics, gifts, home products and fashion contained into four trade shows in October.
The Global Sources Consumer Electronics Show is the world's largest electronics sourcing event and Global Sources' flagship event. All phases are packed with the latest products and trends and plenty of special activities...
If you are running an online business, there are special services for online and Amazon sellers with a "Ready-to-Buy" zone, an e-commerce service providers' pavillion and suppliers who accept small orders. This is a sourcing event, you have to register to attend. The Shows are conveniently timed for buyers who also attend the Canton Fair.
When? October 11 - 21, 2023
Global Sources Consumer Electronics Show - October 11 - 14, 2023
Global Sources Mobile Electronics Show - October 18 - 21, 2023
Global Sources Smart Home and Appliances - October 18 - 21, 2023
Global Sources Home and Kitchen - October 18 - 21, 2023
Global Sources Lifestyle and Fashion - October 18 - 21, 2023
Where? AsiaWorld Expo
Chung Yeung Festival - October 23, 2023
Chung Yeung Festival is Autumn Remembrance Day.
This is a day for families to get together, visit the graves of the ancestors and pay their respects.
You are likely to see a lot of activity around the cemeteries throughout the territories as the typical offerings of Chinese paper money, incense, fruits and other foodstuffs are being brought.
Chung Yeung Festival IS a public holiday in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Tennis Open - October 7 - 15, 2023
World class tennis returns to Hong Kong! After 5 years, the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open is back this autumn! This is a WTA sanctioned International Series Event featuring many of the world's best female tennis players in Victoria Park.
Although a fairly newcomer, the tournament keeps increasing in stature and attracting a high calibre player field which in the past has included Grand Slam champions Venus Williams, Naomi Osaka, Caroline Wozniacki, Angelique Kerber & Garbine Muguruza, alongside many of China's top stars.
The Open attracted over 58,000 spectators in the past. Tournament's prize money this year is US$250,000.
When?: October 7 - 15, 2023
Where?: Victoria Park Tennis Stadium
How Much?: HK$160 - HK$970
Tickets for the first three days of the tournament (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) during qualifying rounds are FREE to the public, on a first-come first-served basis. Tuesday is FREE for students.
The New World Harbour Race - formerly the Cross Harbour Race
Yes, this is a swimming race accross Victoria Harbour! It is one of the most popular events in Hong Kong attracting hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators. Imagine swimming with the towering skyscrapers on both ends, it's certainly a sight!
There are several categories for competitors, from Youth (12 years old) to Masters (50 and above), there are categories for leisure groups, schools and universities as well. Course can be 1 km to 5 km.
When?: This year in November
Where?: Race starts from Wan Chai Golden Bauhinia Square Public Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui Avenue of Stars
How Much?: Spectators Free!
Hong Kong Cyclothon
The Hong Kong Cyclothon will again welcome cyclists from around the world to immerse in the culture and breathtaking landscape only offered by Asia's World City. This year's races will take riders through three bridges and three tunnels across the city, the heart of Mongkok, Tsing Yi Island and will start and end on Tsim Sha Tsui's Salisbury Road.
Races are offering spots to 5,200 professional and cycling enthusiasts competing on the 30 and 50 km races and also back are the Family Fun Ride, the Men's and Women's Open Races, the Charity CEO and Celebrity Ride and the UCI Class 1.1 Road Race.
When?: October 22, 2023
Where?: Vantage points along Salisbury Road near Tsim Sha Tsui promenade and
along Mody Road near UC Centenary Garden in Tsim Sha Tsui East
How Much?: Spectators Free!
Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival
Hundreds of booths overlooking fantastic Victoria Harbour celebrating food and wine from around the world...
Wine tastings, live music and entertainment, culinary highlights, signature dishes from Hong Kong's top hotels and restaurants, pastries, cheeses, great wines and a fun atmosphere.
And don't miss the Tasting Theatre with great offerings for tasting and cooking workshops. Enjoy an epicurean journey unlike any other... indulge in myriad themed events in restaurants - from Michelin-starred dishes to iconic street food - along with exclusive offers. Cheers!
In addition, Wine and Dine Month Taste Around Town runs through November 30, 2023 with dining offers from hundreds of bars and restaurants throughout the territory.
When?: October 26 - 29, 2023 and Hong Kong Wine and Dine Month Taste Around Town through the end of November
Where?: Central Harbourfront Event Space and Tamar Park in Hong Kong Island near Central Piers 9 and 10
How Much?: General Admission HK$20 - HK$40
Ocean Park Halloween Fest 2023
Ocean Park is every year's Halloween Grand Central, with one of the largest events in Asia.
Traditional haunted houses and plenty of interactive experiences throughout the park are being planned. Trick-or-treating for the little ones is always a favourite and we will likely see a return of the popular Survivor of the Undead, Forbidden Rainforest Treasure Hunt and The Supernatural Ghost Tour.
And of course plenty of shows, roaming ghosts and monsters for photo ops, and great food and entertainment round up a day of fun at this year's Halloween Fest.
When?: September 15 to October 31, 2023
Where?: Ocean Park Hong Kong
How Much? General admission ticket gives access to Halloween shows
and attractions. Extra charge for Halloween special attractions
Remember you can buy discount tickets online at Klook.com:
Ocean Park Discount Tickets Standard HK438 HK$388
More Info and Booking at Klook.com
Offers for Water World Ocean Park HK Ticket
Hong Kong Disneyland Haunted Halloween Celebrations
What?: Trick or Treating with Mickey and the gang, Halloween parade, haunted mansions, creepy surprises!
When?: September 16 through October 31, 2023
Where?: Throughout the park
How Much? Included with park admission
Remember you can buy discount tickets online at Klook.com:
HK Disneyland Discount Tickets Adult HK639 HKD584, Children HK475 HKD428
More Info and Booking at Klook.com
Dining Offers at Hong Kong Disneyland
Booo: More Hong Kong Halloween Celebrations
The ghostly decorations and waves of orange pumpkins, skeletons and vampires are making their way into the shopping centers and the theme parks in the territory. Villains, ghosts and goblins are already making the rounds.
There are many events, parties, and parades centered around Halloween this year.
Ongoing Hong Kong Events
These are some popular ongoing events that are worth checking out, specially since they are FREE or offered for a low fee!
These events feature some of the great and ancient traditions of the territory and are offered by experts in their corresponding fields:
The Symphony of Lights
The Symphony of Lights is Hong Kong's light and sound show, a tribute to the city and its people, their diversity, energy and vitality.
The stage is the entire city, which is what makes it so unique, you can watch the lights from just about anywhere in the waterfront.
This free show offered by the city, takes place every night at 8:00 pm and lasts about 12 minutes.
When?: Every Night
Where?: Can be seen from both sides of Victoria Harbour, specially stunning aboard a Harbour Cruise.
How Much? Free
- More on Hong Kong's Symphony of Lights, best spots to watch.
- Symphony of Lights Harbour Cruise with Aqualuna (NOW SAILING! Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays)
The Horse Races Are On! This is how you can attend
The horse races in Hong Kong whether or not you are a horse racing enthusiast is an experience not to be missed!
The beautiful horses, the skillful jockeys, the crowds going wild, they all add up to an exciting, fun-filled, thrilling atmosphere in two world-class venues, at the Sha Tin Racecourse and the iconic Happy Valley Racecourse.
The Happy Valley race course itself is a sight in itself, the city has built around it through the years and it is now practically surrounded by skyscrapers, an awesome experience specially at night when the city is illuminated.
When?: Happy Valley Night Races on Wednesday Nights. On race day, first race starts at 7:15 p.m. and the gates open at 5:15 p.m.
The races are done by 11:00 p.m.
Sha Tin Day Races are on Sundays. First race normally starts at 1:00 pm, earlier if there are more than 10 races. Gates open at 11:00 am.
All races will be streamed live at the HK Jockey Club Racing Channel.
How Much? There are many ways to experience the races, from General Stand to Private Boxes and
special packages including dinner and drinks. General Stand entrance starts at HK10. You can join this guided experience and learn all about horse racing and betting, Enjoy the HKJC horse races from the 2M roof deck.
Hong Kong Events By Month
Most Popular Excursions in Hong Kong
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