A spectacular 2002 programme presented by the Hong Kong Tourism Board confirms Hong Kong’s reputation as the events capital of Asia and a premier tourism hub.
The vast calendar of events designed to showcase Hong Kong to overseas visitors begins next month with the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Parade (February 12). Now in its seventh year, the parade has become an international event that places Hong Kong at the forefront of worldwide celebrations among Chinese communities.
Almost half of the record 23 floats and 38 performing groups come from abroad, adding a truly global perspective to this traditional Chinese festival, and further demonstrating Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s world city.
Hong Kong Tourism Board chairman Selina Chow said a measure of the parade’s international profile was the participation this year of tourism bodies from Canada, Finland, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Thailand and neighbouring Guangdong Province.
“Their rich diversity of cultural presentations brings a new dimension to the event, broadening its appeal for visitors and residents alike,” Mrs Chow said.
“Colourful floats will also provide the focus for a spectacular fiesta on the day after the parade, when the Tamar site will feature cultural performances and pavilions offering traditional Chinese arts and crafts, festive snacks and games for all the family. In the evening, the floats will be elaborately illuminated as part of the backdrop to the annual fireworks display. Not only are tourism officers bringing floats and performers to the procession, they will also have their own booths at the fiesta to promote special attractions in their countries and cities.”
Other premier events to be held during the year include the City Festival, Hong Kong Arts Festival, Credit Suisse First Boston Hong Kong Sevens, 26th Annual International Film Festival, and the Hong Kong Flower Extravaganza.
