Cheung Chau Bun Festival leads Hong Kong’s colorful spring celebrations

Spring in Hong Kong is synonymous with festivals, and this year, the season kicks off with the much-loved Cheung Chau Bun Festival from 5-6 May. This iconic event, held annually on the picturesque Cheung Chau Island, transforms the sleepy fishing village into a bustling hub of vibrant parades, traditional rituals, and whimsical competitions. It’s no wonder that thousands of visitors travel from all over to experience the festival’s unique blend of culture and fun.

Whether you’re drawn to the Bun-Scrambling Competition, where climbers race up a towering bun-covered structure, or the Piu Sik Parade, featuring children dressed as deities and pop culture icons, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a look at some of the highlights and other exciting events happening across Hong Kong this spring.

Cheung Chau Bun Festival: A Cultural Icon

Recognized as part of China’s national list of intangible cultural heritage since 2011, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival honors the sea god Pak Tai, believed to have saved the island from a plague in the 18th century. This cultural celebration is a perfect fusion of history, folklore, and modern excitement.

Festival Highlights:

Climbing Carnival – 27 April 2025

The festival kicks off with the Climbing Carnival, a family-friendly event from 12 pm to 6 pm. Visitors can enjoy games, handicrafts, variety shows, and a general sense of fun as the village transforms into a lively celebration of all things buns.

Piu Sik Parade – 5 May 2025

The Piu Sik Parade is one of the most anticipated parts of the festival. Each year, thousands of spectators watch in awe as children dressed as deities, famous figures, and pop-culture icons seem to “float” above the crowd in a colorful, carnival-like procession. It’s a joyous, surreal experience that captures the spirit of Hong Kong.

Bun-Scrambling Competition – 5–6 May 2025

At midnight, the Bun-Scrambling Competition takes center stage. Twelve brave climbers race up a 14-meter tower covered in lucky buns (ping on bao), striving to collect as many as possible. Higher buns are worth more points, and the competitor who gathers the most earns the playful title of “Full Pockets of Lucky Buns.” This thrilling event is a unique spectacle and one of the most exciting moments of the festival.

Nightfall Drone Show

A dazzling drone show on 1 May at 8 pm adds a modern twist to the celebrations. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hong Kong’s skyline, the show features a stunning choreography of lights and music. For the best views, head to the Wan Chai Temporary Promenade.

Spring Festivals Beyond Cheung Chau

Spring also brings a host of other exciting events that fill Hong Kong with festive energy. From traditional ceremonies to contemporary celebrations, here’s what’s happening:

Labour Day Golden Week (1–5 May)

The Labour Day Golden Week brings a special vibrancy to the city, including the Tin Hau Festival (20 April), Buddha’s Birthday (5 May), and the Tam Kung Festival (5 May). The Tam Kung Festival, traditionally celebrated by maritime communities, includes Cantonese opera, lion dances, and a parade.

Cultural Beat: Hong Kong’s Celebration of Arts

The Cultural Beat initiative is a citywide celebration of the arts, crafts, and traditions that make Hong Kong unique. Alongside the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, there are numerous events to enjoy this spring:

• Buddha Bathing Ceremony at Po Lin Monastery (29 April–5 May): Visitors can take part in this serene tradition by pouring water over Buddha statues in a symbolic act of renewal.

• Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races (7–8 June): Feel the adrenaline of this thrilling, high-energy sport.

• Tam Kung Festival @ Eastern District (29 April–7 May): This colorful festival includes Cantonese opera, a parade with lion and dragon dances, and an international lion dance competition.

Other Spring Highlights:

• Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong (22–25 May): Explore stunning works from 98 leading galleries at this celebration of modern and traditional art.

• French May Arts Festival (through 13 July): Dive into French culture with events ranging from theatre to music, cinema, and more.

• Chinese Culture Festival (June–September): Experience Chinese heritage through dance performances, opera, screenings, and exhibitions.

New Events in 2025:

• Cirque du Soleil KOOZA (starting 21 May): Get ready for breathtaking acrobatics and theatrical magic in this world-famous show.

• Picasso for Asia—A Conversation (through 13 July): Discover over 60 of Picasso’s masterpieces at the M+ museum, offering unique insights into his creative journey.

For Sports Fans:

• Volleyball Nations League Hong Kong 2025 (18–22 June): Watch top international teams battle it out in this high-stakes volleyball showdown.

Book Your Hong Kong Adventure Now!

From the Cheung Chau Bun Festival to the Cultural Beat celebrations, there’s no shortage of excitement in Hong Kong this spring. Whether you’re exploring cultural festivals, enjoying the arts, or attending high-energy sporting events, there’s something for everyone. Visit the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Cultural Beat website for real-time updates and insider tips, and make your spring experience in Hong Kong unforgettable!