Rosanna Law on Saturday said the Tourism Board will be able to scale up its annual flagship events this year thanks to increased government funding.

The secretary for culture, sports and tourism was speaking days after the board was allocated HK$1.66 billion in the Budget, up from HK$1.23 billion last year.

Speaking on a radio programme, Law said she believed immediate results would be seen with the Wine & Dine festival and the New Year Countdown. She also said the board would consider how to incorporate new elements into other festivities.

"Previously, most people associated Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations with the fire dragon dance," she said.

"It is very unique. But can we do more during the festival, given that it is a major festival in our Chinese traditional culture, when everyone celebrates family reunions?"

"Moreover, Hong Kong is a city where Chinese and Western cultures converge. We can approach Halloween with a joyful spirit, making it a fun occasion for everyone to dress up...like Nezha, Wukong, or even Labubus," she said in reference to toy figures.

As for the new light show replacing the long-running Symphony of Lights display, Law said it might be less frequent to enhance its appeal.

Law said the board would take into consideration synergies with nearby hotels and restaurants when choosing a location for the display, along with any technical issues.




Edited by Robert Kemp