Tens of thousands eagerly waiting for Hong Kong Lunar New Year fireworks

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Connor Mycroft,Harvey KongFebruary 18, 2026 at 12:39 PM

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Tens of thousands gathered in Hong Kong along Victoria Harbour to watch a 23-minute Lunar New Year fireworks display celebrating the Year of the Horse. The event, sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club and costing HK$19 million, featured 31,888 pyrotechnic shells. Some visitors from mainland China planned to depart after the display, despite government efforts to encourage spending. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu addressed the crowds, stating the display represented Hong Kong's spirit and vowed to align the city's development with China's 15th five-year plan. The fireworks aimed to usher in the new year with a sense of progress and achievement.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

China 40% Hong Kong Jockey Club 50% Victoria Harbour 60% Lunar New Year 70% John Lee Ka-chiu 70% Hong Kong ×690%

Keywords

lunar new year 100% fireworks display 90% hong kong 80% year of the horse 70% victoria harbour 60% john lee ka-chiu 50% tourism 50% economic development 40%