This October why not visit the Tattoo Exhibition or the wonderful Wine and Dine Festival or go and see the many great theatrical and musical performances on offer this month.
Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo
Don’t miss the inaugural edition of this cultural extravaganza. Celebrating the artistic creativity of performing troupes from Hong Kong and beyond, the five-day programme is packed full of musical theatre, dance, comedy and more. Three of the Expo highlights embrace collaborations with arts organisations from Mainland China, Japan and South Africa, offering a wonderful fusion of cultural styles and musical forms. Performance works by smaller creative groups and a series of arts conversations also feature. These discussions will examine dynamic arts scenes and global cultural trends.
When: 14-18 Oct
Where: Various locations
How much: Various prices
For more information: hkpax.org.hk
Tattoo Exhibition
The visual feast that is the Hong Kong China International Tattoo Exhibition returns following a successful debut last year, with more than 100 top artists from 30-plus countries expected to show their handiwork. Presented in collaboration with global artist agency 6VI, the joyous celebration of wonderful skin imagery includes a mammoth ‘poster marathon’ and competitions in various tattoo styles including black and white – popular with today’s younger devotees – and glorious colour. Come and exchange tattoo ideas!
When: 4-7 Oct
Where: Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai
How much: 1-day pass HK$200
For more information: hktattoocon.com
Louie Castro in Concert
To celebrate 50 years in showbiz – and the month of his 70th birthday – veteran entertainer Louie Castro puts himself under the spotlight yet again with an anniversary concert in which all proceeds will benefit his favourite charity. The Macau-born star, who has had an illustrious career spanning television shows, films and music, is bound to belt out his most famous hits for his many fans at his Happy Together 50 Years in Concert. For all fans, this is a concert not to be missed.
When: 9 Oct
Where: Cultural Centre Concert Hall, Tsim Sha Tsui
How much: From $480
For more information: urbtix.hk
After Snowfall
Hong Kong Dance Company ushers in its new season with a mesmerising performance that pays homage to the art of calligraphy. Inspired by writer and master calligrapher Wang Xizhi’s letters to his friends, After Snowfall is performed by dancers schooled in martial arts. Director-choreographer Yang Yuntao orchestrates a dance poem composed of movements that trace the patterns of snowfall.
When: 11-14 Oct
Where: Xiqu Centre Grand Theatre, West Kowloon
How much: From $200
For more information: hkdance.com
Hong Kong Cyclothon
The Cyclothon returns to our shores once again, allowing participants to experience the sheer pleasure of pedalling around Hong Kong and taking in amazing landmarks and breathtaking natural scenery. For the first time both the 32km and 50km rides will finish in West Kowloon. Other options include a Family Fun Ride, a CEO Charity and Celebrity Ride, and City Cycling Challenges for both men and women, while a carnival caters to those not getting on their bikes.
When: 13 Oct
Where: Various locations
How much: Registration fee
For more information: hongkongcyclothon.com
Macbeth
Staged by UK company Action To The Word, Shakespeare’s infamous tale of murderous betrayal comes to Hong Kong in a must-see event for all classic-drama buffs. Macbeth famously explores the human condition and how easy it is to follow the wrong path in pursuit of blind ambition. This mesmerising retelling of another of the Bard’s great works is bound to leave the audience spellbound.
When: 23-27 Oct
Where: Academy for Performing Arts Drama Theatre, Wan Chai
How much: From $688
For more information: hkapa.edu
Wine & Dine Festival
The glorious backdrop of Victoria Harbour plays host to this festival celebrating the very best wines from around the world. It includes pours from all the notable wine regions as well as gems from lesser-known wine-producing countries, natural wines and low-alcohol versions. Furthermore, a wide range of culinary delights enables connoisseurs to indulge in their favourite pairings to add that extra taste of deliciousness. Great entertainment will undoubtedly keep the party mood at an intoxicating high.
When: 23-27 Oct
Where: Central Harbourfront
How much: From $20
For more information: discoverhongkong.com
The Adorned Body
For anyone interested in French culture and fashion, this is simply a must-see. In the Asian debut of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs de Paris’ amazing collection of French costumes, jewellery and accessories, visitors can admire almost 400 items on display, taking them through a cultural journey underscored by the evolution of fashion. The exhibition is divided into five sections covering the years 1770 to 1910.
When: Until 14 Oct
Where: Gallery 9, Hong Kong Palace Museum, West Kowloon
How much: From $150
For more information: hkpm.org.hk
Moon Fest Lumiere
The Chinese celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival extends into mid-October at leafy Lee Tung Avenue in Wan Chai. For its signature moon-watching event, the 200-metre-long pedestrian walkway, replete with cafés, top-notch restaurants and fashion stores, is illuminated by more than 800 traditional Chinese and fish-shaped lanterns to create an atmosphere of warmth and delight. Relax and soak up the vibes of this laid-back street in the heart of Hong Kong.
When: Until 15 Oct
Where: Lee Tung Avenue, Wan Chai
How much: Free
For more information: leetungavenue.com.hk