Hong Kong lights up 3,000 lanterns from around the world at Mid-Autumn Festival
The light of lanterns has always symbolised hope and unity. When lights from different cultures merge in one park, borders blur, and the festival becomes common to all.
The International Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival, organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will illuminate Victoria Park from September 17 to 27. More than 3,000 lanterns from around the world will attract many residents and visitors. This year's theme is "Reunion," combining traditional and innovative elements as well as local and international cultures. For the first time, the festival incorporates world culture into traditional Mid-Autumn celebrations, creating a unique festive atmosphere.
The exhibition features lanterns representing various traditions, including historical Qinhuai lanterns from Nanjing, handmade Hong Kong lanterns and overseas lanterns. At the main entrance to Victoria Park, visitors are greeted by an eight-metre installation inspired by Hong Kong's majestic banyan trees. It is one of four giant works created specifically for Hong Kong by a team of Qinhuai lantern masters, whose craft is inscribed on the national intangible cultural heritage list.
The exhibition showcases more than 3,000 lanterns from 20 countries and regions in Asia and Europe, allowing visitors to experience folk customs and festive culture from around the world through the art of lantern making.
"The streets and alleys of Hong Kong fill with a festive atmosphere during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Today's lantern festival is very beautiful; it showcases the charm of traditional Chinese culture and international lantern culture. It has attracted many residents and tourists. Hong Kong's economy is stable this year, and people feel a strong sense of satisfaction and joy," said Michael Woo Kim-kong, a Hong Kong member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.
"This year's lantern festival is imbued with a strong traditional atmosphere, and the lanterns themselves create a truly festive mood. At the same time, it features lanterns from other countries and regions, reflecting Hong Kong as an international metropolis that brings together guests from around the world to share the joy of reunion. Ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, Hong Kong is immersed in joy," said William So Wing-on, a representative of the Hong Kong business community.
Among those who visited the spectacle were guests from the mainland. "I came specially from the mainland to see the lanterns in Hong Kong. I am very happy to be here today because the atmosphere is especially good, and the lanterns are truly beautiful," said a mainland guest surnamed Cai.
As reported by CCTV+, the International Lantern Festival in Hong Kong became a bright event uniting tradition and modernity, local and world culture. The festival of light not only pleases the eye but also reminds us of the values of unity and reunion.
