Yesterday (Dec. 25) was Christmas Day, and the bar street in Central's Lan Kwai Fong is brimming with a strong festive atmosphere. Shops along the streets are adorned with Christmas decorations, while numerous locals and tourists are dressed up in festive attire, wearing Santa hats, reindeer headbands, and even dressing as Santa Claus. Many are taking photos and sharing the joy of the season.
Bars and restaurants nearly fully booked, high table turnover
About 90% of online reservations for restaurants in the Lan Kwai Fong area have been sold, leaving limited availability. More than half of the establishments are offering holiday promotions to attract customers, including discounts on food and drinks, complimentary snacks, affordable multi-course set menus, and all-you-can-drink alcohol packages.
Ms. Tong, a staff member at one of the bars, stood out with her green outfit and a unique "Lan Kwai Fong" street sign headpiece. She shared that table turnovers had been frequent as of 8:30 p.m., with all reservations fully booked. She expects the lively scene to continue until 5 or 6 a.m. the following morning.
She noted that on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), the crowd didn't disperse until 6 a.m. yesterday. The bar has been offering special cocktails, a 15% discount on total bills, and a "buy two, get one free" happy hour promotion in the afternoon. To enhance the atmosphere, DJs are performing live, and small complimentary cocktails are being handed out to patrons. Tong also pointed out that the high table turnover rate means walk-in customers are welcome to stop by and enjoy signature Hong Kong cocktails.
Visitors from around the world come to experience festive atmosphere
On-site observations revealed that many tourists came specifically to experience Lan Kwai Fong's unique Christmas vibe. Ms. Yuen, a visitor from Zhuhai, shared that she had heard about the special atmosphere here and decided to spend Christmas night with friends. They were looking for a cozy bar to enjoy drinks and planning to exchange gifts as well.
Another tourist, Ms. Ma, described Lan Kwai Fong as a famous hub for young people and a landmark in HK. After having dinner with friends, she decided to stroll around the area, hearing that it also offers an array of delicious food. She was searching for a place with a good vibe to relax. Her New Year's wish is to stay healthy with her friends and earn more money, saying, "It's not just about having a Merry Christmas; let's be happy every day!"
Locals enthusiastic about festivities, participate in drinking challenge
Local resident Mr. Choi came to Lan Kwai Fong specifically for the "Ten Shot Challenge" held by one of the bars. This free activity invites participants to compete in drinking ten types of alcohol as quickly as possible. Those with outstanding results can get their names on the leaderboard, with prizes for the top three contestants. Choi described how the vibrant red-and-green Christmas decorations uplifted his spirits and extended his wishes to all HK residents: "Let's earn more next year! HK will surely thrive!"
Meanwhile, Ms. Leung, who came with colleagues, wore a Christmas headband she purchased from Toys "R" Us. She expressed her simple yet heartfelt wish for HK to remain safe and peaceful in the upcoming year.
Families celebrate together, child sends adorable Christmas greetings
During the interviews, a little girl named Miss Yip, dressed in a full pink outfit and wearing a reindeer headband, happily stepped in front of the camera. She shared that her outfit was chosen by her father, while her headband was a prize from her teacher after a performance. Facing the camera, she sent her greetings: "Merry Christmas!" She also shared her New Year's wish—hoping to make progress in singing and performing in the coming year.
Her father, Mr. Yip, humorously remarked that Lan Kwai Fong was already a landmark during his youth, and now his daughter also finds joy in visiting the area. He added that he had taken his daughter to Tsim Sha Tsui last night, where she particularly enjoyed the Christmas lights and the numerous photo spots at Harbour City. Finally, Mr. Yip and his daughter sent their collective blessings: "Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, world peace, and good health to everyone!"
Foreign residents praise HK's festive spirit
Ms. Leean, a Filipino resident spending her 12th Christmas in HK, was strolling around with her boyfriend, who had bought her a bouquet from a street vendor as a Christmas gift. She expressed her joy and said that compared to her hometown, she finds HK's Christmas atmosphere more enjoyable and heartwarming. Her Christmas wish is to "live a happy life!"
As the night went on, the crowds in Lan Kwai Fong grew denser, but the area remained orderly and manageable. Visitors were still able to pause and take photos without disruptions. People dressed in creative Christmas costumes exchanged warm greetings, creating a heartwarming and festive scene in HK this Christmas.
(Journalist: Lyn; English Editor: Zoey SUN)
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