Hong Kong Chinese New Year Raceday is one of the biggest events taking place in Asia’s world city. The annual event is traditionally held on the third day of the Lunar New Year, which will fall on Friday, January 31 this year. Attendees will try their luck at one of the city’s major and most popular racing days to kick off the Year of the Snake. Last year, it drew more than 90,000 visitors to the Sha Tin racecourse in the New Territories, and generated an all-time record turnover of HK$1.75 billion on the day.

What to see at Chinese New Year Raceday

This year the exciting schedule, which starts at 11:15am, includes one of the city’s favourite races — the Hong Kong Classic Mile, with a HK$13 million purse. Racegoers can enjoy some additional entertainment with a live performance from Cantopop singer Hins Cheung. Hong Kong pop-rock band Nowhere Boys will also perform in between races.

Furthermore, visitors can participate in a lucky draw, enjoy a traditional lion dance show along with the God of Fortune before the races start to celebrate the New Year, take a picture at the ‘Feng Shui Avenue’ photo location decorated with giant windmills and festive peach blossoms, and savour delicious and traditional Chinese New Year treats. For those looking for tips on how to achieve prosperity and wealth in the New Year, renowned Feng Shui master Mak Ling Ling will make an appearance at the track and offer her prognostications.

Free entry for Hong Kong visitors

Visitors to the track will get a gift upon entering the premises and those coming from abroad can enjoy free admission by showing a valid travel document at the venue’s entry points. For Hong Kong residents, a HK$10 fee will be charged for general admission. Members of the public younger than 18 years old are not allowed at the racetrack and in its betting areas.

This year, the Hong Kong Jockey Club announced that the winnings for the race day — which is one of Hong Kong’s most popular Chinese New Year events — are projected to be HK$20.8 million, thanks to an enhanced Triple Trio jackpot of HK$18 million and a HK$2.8 million jackpot. Betting pools open at 12pm on January 30.

EVENTChinese New Year Raceday
VENUESha Tin Racecourse, 6001 Tai Po Road, Sha Tin
DATEJanuary 31, 2025
WEBSITEcampaigns.hkjc.com/racing-event-hub-chinese-new-year/en/

Header image credits: Hong Kong Tourism Board

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Kathy Chan is a lifestyle content writer, passionate about travel, wellness, and sustainable living. She explores her city's vibrant culture and culinary scene while inspiring readers to embrace a balanced lifestyle. In her free time, Kathy enjoys hiking, cooking, and practicing yoga.