Central’s Christmas light show returns on Wednesday, 18 November 2026, with nine buildings around Statue Square taking part in Hong Kong WinterFest.
If you caught last year’s show, look out for one addition to the skyline: the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong joins the eight landmarks that lit up last Christmas. The opening-night performance starts at 8pm, and the show runs until 5 January 2027.
A steam train journey across Central’s skyline
This year’s show has a story you can follow from the ground. A steam train sets off through a snowy landscape before travelling through a world of toys and a kingdom made of sweets.
Hong Kong gets a cameo, too, with the Peak Tram appearing along the way. The journey unfolds in eight acts, with the lights in Statue Square changing colour in time with the music and the action overhead.
Look up and you’ll see the projections play across buildings of very different heights and shapes. The Bank of China Tower and HSBC Main Building are among the most recognisable. Closer to the square, the Court of Final Appeal Building, Prince’s Building and the Mandarin Oriental also become part of the show.
Where to watch and which time to aim for
Take Central MTR Exit K for Statue Square Gardens. Both the north and south gardens are designated viewing areas. The Christmas Town lights come on at 6pm, so you can explore the square before the first projection. On opening night there’s a two-hour gap between switch-on and showtime. On a regular evening, the first show is at 7pm.
| When you visit | Light show times |
|---|---|
| 18 November | Opening performance at 8pm |
| Regular evenings through 5 January | Every half hour from 7pm to 11pm |
| 24–26 December and 31 December–2 January | Extended until 1am |
For an after-dinner visit, there’s no need to rush for the first performance. On a regular evening, arriving just before the hour or half past will put you in time for the next show.
Images Credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board