World’s largest jewellery show kicks off in Hong Kong next week
If you’re a fan of fine jewellery, you’re surely in for a treat next week as the world’s largest jewellery show returns to our city courtesy of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Comprising two concurrent events, over 4,600 exhibitors from 48 countries will be displaying their precious goods, allowing local haute joaillerie aficionados an intimate glimpse at some of the most stunning precious gemstones and jewellery in the world.
Kicking off proceedings is the sixth iteration of the HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show, which runs from 26 February to 2 March at AsiaWorld-Expo. A fantastic opportunity for industry insiders and jewellery lovers alike to snap up the finest raw gemstones and pearls, visitors will also be invited to explore specialised themed zones including the Hall of Fine Diamonds, the Treasures of Nature and the Treasures of Ocean.
A scant two days later sees the launch of the 36th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, which offers a seemingly endless array of exquisite finished high jewellery pieces on show. Particularly visit-worthy showcases include the Hall of Fame – where 38 luxury brands will spotlight their latest collections – and the even grander Hall of Extraordinary, boasting the skilfully crafted designs from over 100 companies.
Furthermore, this year the HKTDC has announced that Japan will be honoured as the joint event’s first-ever partner country, giving the adoring public a glimpse at the island nation’s truly magnificent pearls.
In addition to the exotic jewellery designs on display, the two shows will also play host to a series of specialised talks and forums on pertinent industry topics such as latest market trends, breaking production technologies and the rise of mobile commerce.
Underlining the importance of the world’s largest jewellery show, Benjamin Chau, HKTDC’s Acting Director, said at a press conference on Tuesday: “More than 8,200 companies from 75 countries and regions will visit the shows this year. This will help the industry expand into emerging markets and deal with the unstable global economy.”
The press conference also allowed Hong Kong a preview of exactly what to expect, including a catwalk parade where models showed off some of the highlight designs that will be on display next week. Check out our exclusive coverage of the event in the video below.
To gain admittance to the two shows, visit this website to register now. *Each registration/badge allows admittance to both shows. Limited to trade visitors aged 18+ only.
HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show Date: 26 February – 2 March Venue: AsiaWorld-Expo
HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show Date: 28 February – 4 March Venue: HK Convention & Exhibition Centre
Art’s Content: Affordable Art Fair to return to Hong Kong
Art lovers are in for a treat as the Affordable Art Fair is making its way back to Hong Kong for its seventh edition. Lucky seven indeed as this year’s fair is promising collectors and art appreciators alike the opportunity to experience exciting new artists, a fresh programme and interactive events.
Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the fair is bound to have plenty of room for exploring your preferred aesthetic styles and, perhaps, a new-found appreciation for some niche genres. Not to be forgotten is the knowledgeable staff on hand, ready to encourage educational conversations about the pieces displayed and art as a whole. It’ll be pretty difficult to go home empty-handed from this fair that promises everything exclusive objet d’art at affordable, accessible prices.
New to the programme this year is the immersive Creative Hub which will focus on expressive art and mental well-being, those with little ones can rejoice as it’s open to the whole family. Indeed, everyone is encouraged to take part in the fair’s wishing tree, poetry workshop, mindful colouring and so much more!
The designers of the Creative Hub are composed of a team of art therapists, partners from Sovereign Art Foundation and Mind HK. Together they hope to stimulate conversations between family and friends about how art can play a role in fostering mindfulness, leading to new forms of expression and understanding.
For those wanting to find out more about how they can incorporate art into their daily lives, best stick around for the University of the Arts London’s talk that is sure to be an enriching experience.
Private view: 16 May 2019 (Thursday) Open to public: 17 – 19 May 2019 (Friday – Sunday) Venue: HALL 3D&E, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Tickets will go on sale: 25 February 2019
Three days of equestrian wonder as Longines Masters gallops into Hong Kong
With the seventh edition of the Longines Masters – Hong Kong’s biggest annual show-jumping event – taking over AsiaWorld Expo from 15 to 17 February, horse lovers are counting days to three full days of world-class equestrian entertainment.
But Longines Masters is so much more than just show-jumping – under the vision of Christophe Ameeuw, the founder and CEO of EEM, the founder and organiser of the series, the three-day event will metamorphose into a non-stop entertainment hub that marries the worlds of sports and culture through diverse experiences meant for the whole family.
Here’s a countdown of what’s happening over 15-17 February:
On 15 February, the AsiaWorld-Expo Trophy opens the show. Next on course will be four Hong Kong star jockeys who team up with four star show-jumping riders in the HKJC Race of the Riders. The show intensifies further with the founding partner’s HKJC Trophy, a two-round competition. All eyes are expected to be on the new HKJC Asian Challenge which will see participants from Japan, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Korea and China.
On 16 February, the day will start with the Masters Power Maserati Trophy, a spectacular competition that blends power and agility in a gravity-defying high jump competition. This will lead the way to iconic Longines Speed Challenge, an audience favourite, and a test of speed, agility and technique for the horses and the riders alike.
On the last day, 17 February, there will be a dramatic face-off between the best riders of the world all leading up to the grand finale, the Longines Grand Prix of Hong Kong. The current candidate for the Super Grand Slam Indoor of Show Jumping is Edwina Tops Alexander from Australia, winner of the Longines Grand Prix of Paris in December 2018. If she were to win the Longines Grand Prix of Hong Kong, she could then dream of the €2.25 million bonus promised to the rider who wins all three Grand Prix races in the same Longines Masters season.
Apart from all the action in the ring, there’s going to be an array of fun activities for the entire family to indulge in at the Longines Masters. Guests can enjoy gourmet delicacies and a shopping spree at the Prestige Village that will be set up alongside the paddock. The kids will particularly enjoy the Kids’ Club presented by Kids’ Gallery.
A host of activities will be available all weekend, especially for those moments when the kids’ attention wanders away from the main arena. From equestrian-themed art and craft classes to face-painting sessions and musical theatre workshops, there’s something for every age group. There’s even a chance to learn how to toss rubber “horse shoes” and an opportunity for kids to add their own designs to the Longines Masters equestrian mural.
Catch an exclusive sneak peek of all the action here:
February Events in Hong Kong: A round-up of this month’s must-see events
Chinese New Year celebrations may dominate the calendar this month, but there’s plenty more beyond just traditional lunar festivities lined up. From The Great Gatsby and the Hong Kong Arts Festival to the meat-devoid Vegetarian Food Asia fair and the annual International Jewellery Show, here’s our round-up of the top February Events in Hong Kong.
Lunar New Year Lantern Exhibition 1-28 Feb
Illuminated by literally hundreds of multihued lanterns, Hong Kong’s markets will be awash with more than enough colours to delight any nocturnal shopper as Hong Kong ushers in the new lunar year with fanfare. With many of the city’s best-known landmarks, as well its traditional retail locales, once again set to be transformed, it’s the perfect time to post your entanglement with Hong Kong’s biggest festival on Instagram or just to bask in the beauty of it all. Multiple locations.
Year of the Pig Fireworks 6 Feb
It’s once again time for Hong Kong’s most awe-inspiring fireworks display of the year, with its spectacular aerial pyrotechnics this time marking the dawn of The Year of The Pig. For 2019, the skies above Victoria Harbour are expected to be ablaze for a very precise 23 minutes, which is more than enough time to stand, gaze and point in wonder at this most traditional display of Chinese pageantry. With the harbourside set to be as busy as the heavens, best get there early if you’re looking for a prime vantage spot. Multiple locations.
The Great Gatsby 15-17 Feb The Great Gatsby – F Scott Fitzgerald’s Great American Novel – is returning to the stage, but this time as a ballet. As ever, though, the performance will transport audiences back to the world of New York high society back in the Roaring ’20s, where this glamorous tale of abundance, excess and dark romance will beguilingly play out. Making its Asia-wide premiere in Hong Kong, an extravagant array of movement and dance is promised, as well as music by award-winning blues singer E Faye Butler. Lyric Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Rd, Wan Chai. HK$140-1,000.
Longines Masters of Hong Kong 15-17 Feb
The annual Longines Masters event remains one of Asia’s few truly world-class indoor show jumping competitions. Its seventh edition is set to welcome 30 of the most internationally successful horses and riders, and promises thrills galore as they are put through their paces in this notoriously demanding tournament. After the main events, the fun is set to continue with glamorous after-parties and exclusive DJ sets. There’s also a lavish three-course gastronomic dinner on offer to those whose equine equity is deemed high enough. AsiaWorld–Expo, Airport Expo Blvd, Chek Lap Kok. HK$250-850.
Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 17 Feb
The Hong Kong Marathon is back and promises to be better than ever thanks to a whole host of new challenges that have been incorporated into its ever-demanding course. With 74,000 runners anticipated to hit Hong Kong’s streets, a tsunami of sweat and a torrent of tired limbs is expected to sweep the city, with all participants determined to beat the rest, beat their personal best and secure one of the prized finishers’ medals. The event also has a charitable side, with all proceeds raised dedicated to aiding a Third World footwear fund. Race start point: Tsim Sha Tsui, end point: Victoria Park, Causeway Bay.
Hong Kong Arts Festival 21-23 Feb
Chinese opera, ballet, symphony orchestras… That can only mean one thing – the Hong Kong Arts Festival is back, with its 47th iteration promising a cavalcade of cultural diversions under this year’s overarching theme: At Every Stage. Gathered under this capacious umbrella are such stone-cold classics as Wagner’s Tannhäuser, with this 1845 operatic masterpiece being performed in Hong Kong for the very first time. This year, it’s tussling for top-billing with another outstanding offering – a trio of performances from the historic Hamburg Ballet. Locations and schedules vary.
Ode to the Silk Road 22-24 Feb
Join the Hong Kong Dance Company for its peerless production of Ode to the Silk Road, a breathtaking terpsichorean tour of the finest cultural imaginings from both the East and the West. Helping navigate through this continent-hopping display of dancing diversity are a number of the foremost talents currently treading the boards, including Ding Wei, Tian Lu and Psaha. As well as remarkable rhythmic routines, the show has already won plaudits for both its passion and its array of inspired costumery. Kwai Tsing Theatre Auditorium, 12 Hing Ning Rd, Kwai Chung. HK$120–320.
Vegetarian Food Asia 22-24 Feb
Hong Kong’s first and only trade fair for the meat-averse, Vegetarian Food Asia is set to celebrate its fourth year by welcoming 223 exhibitors from across Asia, as well as countless consumers and professional buyers from across the wider region. As well as showcasing the growing array of non-carnivorous cuisine now on offer, this year, the show will also be offering a public tasting zone, workshops on vegetarian cooking techniques and seminars on healthier living. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai.
Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 28 Feb-4 Mar
The world’s pre-eminent marketplace for fine jewellery, the HKTDC Hong International Jewellery Show this year promises more than 2,500 exhibitors from across 30 countries and territories. While finished jewellery is the focus of the event, areas dedicated to antiques, silver and jade (among many others) are also promised. Pretty parades, design competitions and country pavilions; make sure you get a golden ticket to this one. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. HK$100.
Final countdown to Longines Masters, Hong Kong’s most popular horse show-jumping event
Equestrian lovers have already started counting down to the biggest show-jumping event of the year, as the seventh iteration of the much-anticipated Longines Masters – Hong Kong edition, canters into sight on 15-19 February at AsiaWorld Expo.
Clearly buoyed by last year’s galloping success, this year’s three-day equestrian event promises to be even bigger and better, with three full days of world-class show-jumping competitions, entertainment, and immersive art and culture experiences.
The driving force behind this annual mega-event is none other than Christophe Ameeuw, the founder and CEO of EEM, the founder and organiser of the series, who talks to us about his vision, motivation and what to expect from this year’s rendition of Longines Masters.
You have been a horse show organiser since 2004. What keeps you motivated?
I have an obsession and a burning desire to bring our sport into the international spotlight. I am delighted to return to Hong Kong this year with an exciting programme full of colour and surprises. It gives me immense satisfaction when fans and families of equestrian sports discover the magic and excitement of our sport.
What are the new programmes coming to Hong Kong this year?
This year, for the first time, promising show-jumping riders from Asia will compete in a world-class event alongside the international stars of the sport. I feel this is very important given that there’s a whole new generation of riders out there. This is why, in partnership with Hong Kong Jockey Club, we have come up with the HKJC Asian Challenge. So far, participating nations include Japan, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and China.
What are the Hong Kong participants we should keep an eye out for?
I will support all the riders from Hong Kong and Asia, as it’s such an important event for them, one that is guaranteed to give them immense visibility. I am quite impressed with two of Hong Kong’s home-grown show-jumping riders Raena Leung and Jacqueline Lai, who are both very dedicated and talented.
Do you think Hong Kong has even more firmly etched its place in the equestrian world map since last year’s Longines Masters?
Absolutely. If you just see the number of quality partners we have – from Maserati and DBS to Longines, the amount of media coverage we’ve got, it goes on to show that Hong Kong has emerged as a hugely important venue in the world of equestrian sports over the years, and it will only become even more important in the coming years.
To get a glimpse of the nail-biting excitement, check out the trailer here:
Healthy Bites: Tong Chong Street Market embraces hearty, healthy eats
Tong Chong Street Market, nestled in the bustling shopping and business sector of Quarry Bay’s Taikoo Place, is a far cry from the granny-run dai pai dong, a type of open-air food stall that is found on all corners of Hong Kong.
Starting of the new year with fresh eats and all the energy that comes with the B12 to spare, the market will host its “Healthy Living” theme over January and February, and will run every Sunday (except 3 February). Highlighting from its hearty fare include Impossible Foods x Guest Chef Pop-ups, which will host May Chow, Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2017 and founder of Central-based eatery Little Bao, and John Anthony‘s (which we reviewed last October) Executive Chef Satio Chau.
Little Bao Founder May Chow
Those seeking to extend healthy habits past their protein portions can participate in Rooftop Republic’s complimentary upcycling workshops,and See Network’s guide to planting edible herbs and flowers, along with a workshop on how to craft upcycled paper pencils that will take place inside the upper deck of the market’s iconic bus.
Nike Training Club and Man Cha will also be present holding fitness classes for the public, and in a heartwarming move, also for underprivileged children and their families.
Healthy living extends beyond healthy eating, and acknowledging that, the market is collaborating with Honestly Green to ensure that the vendors are eco-friendly and working towards sustainability. Market-goers can enjoy different levels of discounts upon presenting their own utensils, they can also opt to borrow cutlery from TCSM’s Sustainability Corner. Recycling bins will be featured throughout the market with ambassadors from WWF giving tips on how to use recycling effectively.
With 31 different food vendors and 40 stalls taking part in the “Healthy Living” theme, health-conscious market-goers are sure to be spoilt for choice trying to narrow down which eats to try, and would hopefully come back wiser on how to make a positive impact through the right choices.
Date: 6 January to 17 February 2019 (Every Sunday, except 3 February 2019) Time: 11 am – 5 pm Address: Tong Chong Street, Taikoo Place, Quarry Bay
Leisure and Pleasure: Can’t-miss January events in Hong Kong
With the Christmas festivities behind us, it’s time to look forward to the start of a brand new year, and Hong Kong offers plenty of options to ring in 2019. From the International Dragon and Lion Dance Festival and Mickey’s Super Celebration to Abba’s musical hit, Mamma Mia!, and the HKTDC Hong Kong Toys and Games Fair, these are the can’t-miss January events heating up the SAR’s calendar next month.
International Dragon and Lion Dance Festival – 1 Jan It’s impossible to be lonely over New Year in Hong Kong when the streets are bustling with over a 1,000 dragons, lions, lucky fish and smiling Buddhas, all intent on sharing seasonal greetings. Indeed, visitors from across the world descend on the city at this time of the year, sure in the knowledge that there is no locale more auspicious for marking the onset of a new 12-month cycle. And the good news is that you won’t even have to track down the festivities, with this being one celebration that is so utterly ubiquitous it is sure to seek you out wherever you reside. Locations vary.
HKTDC Hong Kong Toys and Games Fair – 7-10 Jan If your kids have been left unimpressed by Santa’s 2018 selection, don’t worry – HKTDC Hong Kong Toys and Games Fair, Asia’s premier event for tiny tot diversions – returns to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre early in the New Year. Even those lacking a little’un to entertain could do worse than pop along and peruse the show’s growing selection of ‘kidult’ grown-up(ish) leisure aids. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. HK$100.
Hong Kong 100 Ultra Trail Race – 19 Jan Once again, keen athletes from across the world are set to converge on Pak Tam Chung in order to participate in one of the toughest trail races of the year. A true test of endurance, this is not for the faint-hearted, with the grueling route taking in some of Hong Kong’s most treacherous territories, as well as its most picturesque beaches and verdant forests. While most will fall by the wayside, those with true endurance will make it through to the home stretch – a rapid descent from Tai Mo Shan, the SAR’s highest peak, with a warm welcome, foil blankets and state-of-the-art defibrillators awaiting those who stagger across the finish line. Race start line: Pak Tam Chung, Tsuen Wan.
Mamma Mia! – 16-27 Jan Due to unprecedented demand, the international smash-hit Abba tribute musical is extending its stay in Hong Kong. With Lunchbox Theatrical Productions again calling the shots, this hilarious, emotional, uproarious tale of secrets, marriages and misdemeanors never fails to stir entranced audiences into literally singing and dancing in the aisles. With a soundtrack that includes Waterloo, Dancing Queen and the title track, it’s like the ’70s never quite stopped. Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Rd, Wan Chai. HK$395-995.
Beare’s Music Festival – 16-24 Jan Looking to suitably mark the 10th anniversary of the launch of the Beare’s Premiere Music Festival (formerly the Hong Kong International Chamber Music Festival), artistic director Cho Liang-lin is promising a truly epic audio extravaganza. In total, 22 musicians will be performing at five concerts in a number of different venues, including the prestigious Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall and the JC Cube, part of the newly-opened Tai Kwun Cultural Centre in Central. However you like your classical music, there’s sure to be something to get your toes tapping. Locations vary. HK$189–980.
Pole Theatre – 20 Jan Pole dancing has, apparently, come a long way from being solely the refuge of dirty old men and desperate young women. Now celebrated for being both healthy and empowering, it is – so rumour has it – being considered as a future Olympic event. Prior to it being elevated to that exclusive pantheon, however, you can judge its artistic merits for yourself when the Pole Theatre competition shimmies its way into town, offering daringly-flexible dancers of either gender the opportunity to prove that the discipline can be every bit as athletic as it is supposedly erotic. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai. HK$210–490. (Suitable for over-18s only)
Tai Po RFC Mini Festival – 20 Jan Hong Kong Rugby Union is looking to its legacy, with its many supporters keen to ensure that the city’s love of the sport endures into the next generation and well beyond. With this in mind, a grand tournament for six- to 11-year-old rugby aficionados will kick off on the 20th, with teams of various ages competing against one another to see who will emerge as the stars of tomorrow. As befitting such protégés, all the games will be held in professional stadiums, with top-flight professionals on hand to coach the aspiring sports stars. Why not come along then and see many of the HK Seven headliners of tomorrow, while they are still only knee-high? King’s Park Sports Ground, Tai Po.
Disney on Ice presents: Mickey’s Super Celebration – 24-27 Jan From Minnie Mouse to Moana and Maui, from Fantasia to Frozen, everyone seemingly has a favourite Disney moment. Except, sadly, for Mickey Mouse, Disney’s most iconic ambassador. Join him and his band of chums, however, as he attempts to uncover his own most magical memory from the cartoon kingdom’s rich back story – on ice. With flawless choreography and awe-inspiring musical numbers promised, you’d better get your skates on before the best tickets are all sold out. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. HK$280-880.
Hong Kong Philharmonic x Anthony Lun: The Man Behind the Piano Concert – 25-26 Jan After a lengthy absence of some 14 years, Anthony Lun, the CASH Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award winner, is reuniting with the Hong Kong Philharmonic in order to deliver a truly mesmerizing take on the best of his back catalogue. For this performance, Lun – a renowned composer, singer and pianist – will be joined by several special guests, including Elisa Chan, Kay Tse and Leung Chiu Fung, who will all lend their vocal talents to peerless renderings of the songs and tunes that have a special place in the heart of so many. Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall, Tsim Sha Tsui. HK$280–680.
End-of-year Cheer: Hong Kong’s hottest parties to ring in the New Year
In the midst of the Christmas rush, one may be preoccupied with finding the perfect gift for their sweetie, or perhaps, presenting the kids with the magic of Santa, or even opting for a larger size of Christmas feasting jeans; so it’s forgivable to have lost track of time and put New Years Eve plans on the back burner. If you are, indeed, yet to find the perfect party to count down to the Year of the Pig, don’t fret. Here at Gafencu, we’ve checked our list once – twice – three times, and have gathered together the most luxurious dinners and parties to ring in 2019.
Acclaimed Hong Kong Chef Wong Tai Po invites guests celebrate the New Year at his modern Asian culinary eatery, Fang Fang. Feast upon shrimp har gau and wagyu dumplings, while always having your glass filled to the brim with their free flow package of spirits, wines, and beer. (Dinner: HK$888; Free-flow package: HK$440)
Promising patrons the opportunity to ring in the new year with a bang is the newly-opened Hunter & Chase. With its four-hour free-flow Might Night Glam sharing feast – including seasonal oysters, osetra caviar, lobster tail and roasted bone marrow – we’re sure your last meal of the year will be one to remember, if not a reason to make an exercise routine a resolution for the year to come. (Dinner: HK$698; Free-flow package: HK$358)
A favourite fixture of Lan Kwai Fong, CÉ LA VI, is presenting a Sunset New Year’s Eve Menu party with a 2-hour seating of four courses of mouth-watering dishes of sushi and sashami platters. Stick around apres-dinner and join other well-dressed patrons for the official New Year countdown at the rooftop bar, replete with red and gold accents, in what is sure to be a glamorously chic celebration. (Dinner: First Seating 6-7:30pm, HK$888. Second Seating from 8:30pm, HK$1,888)
For those wishing to bid adieu to 2019 away from the bustling crowds of Central, Wanchai-located The Pawn is hosting their ‘La Dolce Vita’-themed New Year’s Eve party at their scenic third floor rooftop garden. The party entails a free-flow package of bubbles, cocktails and canapés, live performances, and the promise of more… (Standard: HK$788; At the Door: HK$988)
What better way to usher in 2019 than with The Greatest Show? That’s the question that Michelin-starred dinery VEA Restaurant & Lounge is asking would-be patrons. Its circus-themed take on year-end celebrations will see guests eating their fill of inventive Chinese-French snacks, all the while sipping on free-flow sultry special cocktails. Unleash your inner acrobat and swing and sway to the beats of the live DJ as you bid farewell to 2018. (From now til 24 Dec: HK$600; From 25-31 Dec: HK$680; At the door: HK$740)
Text: Bailey Atkinson
A Cartier Christmas: French jeweller embraces festive spirit at Tai Kwun
With a Christmas celebration that would make even Père Noël proud, French maison Cartier transformed Hong Kong’s iconic Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts recently, ushering in the festive spirit for the community and holiday lovers alike.
Not your typical caroling carousal, a Cartier Christmas wowed patrons with a festive assortment of entertainment and vibrant attractions, kicking off the show with a lighting ceremony officiated by the brand’s Regional Managing Director of Cartier North Asia, Nigel Luk. What followed was surely a delight to the ears of those gathered, a musical performance led by renowned musician Vicky Fung, known for social enterprise Every Life is a Song (ELIAS).
In line with its avowed mission to support and showcase local talent, Cartier invited children’s choir group Red Vocal Academy, capella group Senza A Cappella and award-winning singer Andy Leung Chiu Fung to perform for the evening.
In addition to the scintillating music, party-goers were also wooed with the gigantic 12-metre high Christmas tree, decorated with an impressive 4,000 ornaments and 20,000 LED lights. Those interested in cherishing the moment forever could also take photo keepsakes with Cartier’s ornamental bellboys in front of the towering tree. Non-profit organisation Hong Chi Association also presented cookies, spreading the joy of sharing, as befits the charitable holiday.
From 14 December 2018 to 1 January 2019, fans of the of both Cartier and Christmas can visit the spectacular display, replete with 110 lavish gift boxes, to celebrate holiday cheer, and of course, take a picture keepsake.
While Cartier’s Christmas tree may certainly be classic, the lavish jewellers are also keeping up with the digital age by encouraging guests to interact with the brand online by taking their photos with the four bespoke Facebook filters of Cartier, available in the boutique, next to the Christmas tree, and online.
Cartier Christmas at Tai Kwun
Date: 14 December 2018 – 1 January 2019 Venue: Parade Ground, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
Time: 10:00AM – 11:00PM
‘Tis the Season: The top December events to check out in Hong Kong
Kick off the festive season with these can’t-miss December events in Hong Kong
Although Christmas festivities are drawing ever-nearer, there are more goings-on in Hong Kong than just Saint Nick’s celebrations. From theatrical performances like The Nutcracker and Madame Butterfly to a mega pinot party at Central Harbourfront, here are some can’t-miss December events you should pencil into your calendar.
Start the festive season as you mean to go on at the world’s largest wine party. Pinot Palooza are bringing some of the finest pinot noirs from Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy, North and South America right to the heart of Hong Kong. With Pinot Palooza clearly not a fan of faffing about with tokens, the ticket price includes a free, exclusive wine glass which is yours to take home and keep, plus as many sips and samples as you like. Red is the colour of Christmas after all. And white.
The only Hong Kong expo dedicated to providing a global platform for innovative design opens its doors once again. From ecologically-sustainable lifestyle products to clean and convenient urban planning, this is where the future is taking shape. This year, exhibitors will be using interactive installations, 3D models and, for the first time ever, virtual reality headsets to bring their cutting-edge contemporary ideas into truly collaborative arena. If you’re wondering if there really is an alternative to plastic or just how to cool down the city in the summer, this is where you’ll find the answer. Probably.
Hong Kong Convention Centre, Wan Chai. Free admission.
Puccini’s classic tragedy in three acts comes to Hong Kong on a mission to stun audiences with its emotional tale of unrequited love in a production that is equally haunting and impressive. It’s not only a delight for the ears, but also for the eyes, largely on account of its painstakingly-researched costumes and beautifully-rendered scenery. While its elegant colonial-era Japanese aesthetics give an aura of antiquity, this heart-wrenching tale of East meets West is truly transcendentally timeless.
Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall, Edinburgh Place, Central. HK$180 – 680.
While all true equestrian enthusiasts will have had this date in their calendar for several months now, it may have eluded those only moderately horsey, but that’s no reason to miss out. It would, after all, be somewhat remiss overlook 7,200 metres of races, jockeys from more than 60 countries, plus 18 home-grown competitors and a grand total of HK$93 million available in prize money. This is, indeed, top-quality, high-stakes racing at its best. After all, few events can boast such an impressive pedigree as this true highlight of Hong Kong’s horse racing season.
With the Hong Kong Ballet’s newly-reinvigorated take on “the greatest music ever made for dance”, courtesy of the inimitable Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Christmas really is coming early this year. Watch in delight as toys, candies, flora, fauna and, of course, the eponymous nutcracker all come to life and set about thwarting the plans of the engagingly evil Rat King in this quintessential festive fare. Come along and discover just why The Nutcracker is such a perennial Christmas treat.
Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. HK$220 – 1,000.
Christmas is a time for charity and indulgence and no one knows that better than The Peninsula, a truly iconic HK institution. This year, its luxurious lobby features festive afternoon “teas of hope”, complete with carols performed by many of the city’s leading choirs, all in aid of the Shanghai K Charitable Foundation and Make-A-Wish Hong Kong. If that’s still not enough to get you into the festive spirit then come down to their European-themed Christmas market on the 24th for carols, mulled wine and a few last-minute Christmas gifts.
The Peninsula Hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui. HK$508. Bookings must be made in advance.
We all have that one person in our lives who seems impossible to shop for when it comes to Christmas. This year, though, worry not as the Hong Kong Mega Showcase brings you the greatest and most diverse shopping experience you could ever wish for. Within its bounds, you will find themed food and wine zones, as well as dedicated spaces for fashion, beauty, home wares, electrical goods and even designer automotives. A true Christmas miracle for all last-minute shoppers.
Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. HK$20.
If you’re looking for a refined way to wave farewell to 2018 then look no further than award-winning Norwegian trumpet soloist Tine Thing Helseth, who is once again returning to the Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall, where she previously performed with both the Hong Kong Philharmonic and the Hong Kong Sinfonietta Orchestra. This year’s Austria-inspired solo show features her unique take on Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto, considered by many as the veritable holy grail of classical trumpeting. An event not be missed by those who want to see out the year in style.
Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall, Edinburgh Place, Central. HK$220 – 480.
Since forming back in 2008, this talented group of Wah Yan College alumni has lost none of the love of music that characterised their early years, with their talent and dedication having transformed them from enthusiastic amateurs to award-winning semi-professionals. This will be their first large-scale public performance and a mammoth step forward in their mission to spread awareness of the importance of music education. Proceeds from the event went to the school where their own Euterpean adventure began.
The Jockey Club Auditorium, HK Polytechnic University, Jordan. HK$120 – 250.
