Full Breakdown
Hong Kong to Launch New Light Show, Phasing Out "A Symphony of Lights"
2/28/2026, 1:51:42 AM
Transition from "A Symphony of Lights" to New Attractions
Hong Kong's iconic light show, "A Symphony of Lights," which has been a staple of the city's skyline since 2004, is set to be replaced by a new immersive light show. The announcement was made by Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, who indicated that the new show would debut in the second half of 2023. This decision follows a review of the existing show, which has faced criticism for becoming outdated and insufficient in engaging audiences. Law stated, “Over the past 20 years, A Symphony of Lights has been optimised and updated many times, but relying solely on laser performances from buildings has become somewhat insufficient.”
Details of the New Show
The new light show will build on the success of last year’s "Immersive Light Show in Central," which featured dynamic 3D projections. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) plans to introduce a series of light-themed festivals across various locations throughout the year, aiming to enhance the city's tourism offerings. Finance Chief Paul Chan Mo-po highlighted that the HKTB will receive HK$1.66 billion (approximately US$25.6 million) in funding, a 35% increase from the previous year, to support these initiatives.
Funding and Broader Tourism Strategy
The funding allocated to the HKTB is part of a broader strategy to revitalize Hong Kong's tourism sector, which saw a 12% increase in visitor arrivals last year. The government aims to attract more high-end overnight visitors, particularly from mainland cities outside Guangdong and emerging markets such as ASEAN and the Middle East. Chan emphasized the importance of enhancing visitor experiences to encourage repeat visits and strengthen the tourism industry's contribution to the economy.
Criticism and Public Sentiment
Despite the planned transition, "A Symphony of Lights" has received negative reviews in recent years, with some attendees describing it as a "terrible waste of time." This feedback has likely influenced the decision to phase out the show. The HKTB has been actively seeking bids from show curators to revitalize the attraction, indicating a commitment to improving the quality of Hong Kong's entertainment offerings.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the funding boost and new initiatives, HKTB Chair Peter Lam expressed gratitude, stating that the board would utilize the resources to attract high-end visitors and enhance overall visitor experiences in Hong Kong. This aligns with the government's goal of promoting the city as a premier destination for tourism and cultural events.
What's Next
As the city prepares for the launch of the new light show, special farewell events for "A Symphony of Lights" will be organized to commemorate its two-decade run. The HKTB's new light festivals are anticipated to begin later this year, marking a significant shift in Hong Kong's approach to nighttime entertainment and tourism.
