Hong Kong to Hold Fireworks Display on May 1 Despite Unstable Weather

Hong Kong is set to hold a 10-minute fireworks display along Victoria Harbour at 8pm on May 1, 2024, marking the start of the Labour Day "golden week" holiday, despite potentially unstable weather conditions. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has confirmed that the pyrotechnics display will proceed as scheduled.

The city experienced severe storms on Tuesday, with 9,437 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes recorded over a 14-hour period. Heavy showers and squally thunderstorms are expected to continue during the May Day holiday, with the Observatory issuing a thunderstorm warning and an amber rainstorm warning. Delays were reported at Hong Kong's international airport, and the wet weather is expected to impact the city's tourism as the Golden Week holiday period begins.

Spectators are advised to come prepared for rain, stay updated on the latest weather reports, and prioritize their safety. The HKTB will maintain close communication with the observatory and provide further updates as necessary. Spectators are also reminded to be aware of the latest traffic arrangements in Tsim Sha Tsui and on Hong Kong Island and to follow the instructions of police officers in the area.

Why this matters: The Labour Day golden week holiday is a major tourism period for Hong Kong, with the city expecting around 1 million trips in and out on the first day alone and at least 800,000 mainland visitors. The fireworks display is part of Hong Kong's efforts to attract more tourists during this key holiday despite the challenging weather conditions.

The fireworks display will feature smiley faces and the city's initials in the night sky, coinciding with the daily "Symphony of Lights" show. Recommended viewing spots include the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Wan Chai Temporary Promenade, Wan Chai harbourfront, and East Coast Park Precinct in North Point. The event will be accompanied by a shopping festival in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, offering discounts from over 2,200 businesses. "The pyrotechnic show is expected to reach heights of up to 100 meters and is part of the HKTB's efforts to create a vibrant atmosphere during the holiday period," the Hong Kong Tourism Board stated.

Key Takeaways

• Hong Kong will hold a 10-min fireworks display on May 1, 2024, for Labour Day holiday.
• Severe storms are expected during the holiday, with thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast.
• Spectators are advised to prepare for rain and follow latest weather updates and traffic arrangements.
• Labour Day holiday is a major tourism period, with 1M+ trips expected on the first day.
• Fireworks display to feature smiley faces and Hong Kong's initials, with shopping festival in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok.