Tourism representatives have welcomed the replacement of the city’s decades-old multimedia light show, but say the new light festivals taking its place must deliver a genuine boost to the night economy.

A Symphony of Lights, a nightly fixture over Victoria Harbour for 22 years, will hold its final performance next Wednesday.

It will be replaced by light festivals staged at various locations at different times of the year.

Speaking on an RTHK radio programme on Wednesday, Sara Leung, a consultant with the Federation of Hong Kong Trade Unions in Tourism, said the long-running show may have grown stale for some residents and visitors.

She said change could be positive, noting that the tourism ecosystem is constantly evolving.

"I think the new show is a good concept because it will be hosted in different districts, which lets visitors get to know Hong Kong better," she said.

"But the most important thing is that whatever fireworks show or event you organise, it can drive business for the local districts and shops. I think that is the most meaningful thing."

Leung added the harbour itself was a draw for visitors and suggested authorities consider incorporating more local elements, such as restoring retired fishing boats, to give it a new character.

Meanwhile, lawmaker Perry Yiu, who previously represented the tourism functional constituency, said the show had helped draw attention to Victoria Harbour over the years, but a major overhaul would be costly and logistically difficult because it would involve dozens of buildings.

He said different offerings, such as fireworks and drone shows, could help make the harbour’s night scene unique and in turn boost catering, retail and the economy.

"The most important thing is to spend little and get good results, have sustainability, be more distinctive, and incorporate different festivals and seasons with different themes, so people feel fresh each time. That is most important," he said.




Edited by Tony Sabine