Chief Executive John Lee on Tuesday visited a Lunar New Year fair in Tuen Mun, before the fairs end early tomorrow morning on the first day of the Year of the Snake.

He bought 10 gladiolus, or sword lilies, which symbolise perfectness and moving forward, along with a pinwheel for good deeds and good luck, and an ornament that represents connecting the community together.

Speaking to the press, Lee said he thinks business at the fair will improve later in the evening.

"The popularity of stalls and products differ. Some are doing well, while some are still struggling. I believe when it gets darker, business at the fair will get better as we get closer to the New Year," he said.

Lee gave citizens his best wishes and called for Hongkongers to shop at the fair.

"It will be the Year of the Snake tomorrow. The snake is agile, which indicates that Hong Kong will seek and respond to changes. I wish everyone good luck, have a great time during the Lantern Festival and other activities, and also good health," he said.

Meanwhile, Financial Secretary Paul Chan went to a fair at Victoria Park, where he chatted with a few stall owners and took pictures with citizens.

He spent around HK$1,000 to purchase a giant panda plush toy, a cushion, a pinwheel, and some orchids.

The minister said he hopes more citizens will visit Lunar New Year fairs across the city ahead of the festival.