Hong Kong rang in 2026 without its traditional New Year fireworks over Victoria Harbor, following a massive November fire that killed at least 161 people.
Instead, the city hosted a music show in Central featuring soft rock duo Air Supply and other performers. Eight landmark buildings displayed three-minute light countdowns at midnight. Fireworks have long been a highlight of New Year, Lunar New Year, and National Day celebrations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and tourists, reports UNB.
Rosanna Law, the territory’s secretary for culture, sports and tourism, said the absence of fireworks could affect hotel and restaurant businesses. Tourists, including Annie Wang from Shanghai and Wang Miao from Guangzhou, expressed understanding of the decision while attending the Central celebrations.
The November fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong’s deadliest since 1948, was worsened by substandard bamboo scaffolding and foam boards during renovations. Thousands of residents displaced by the blaze are still recovering from the loss of homes and loved ones.
