The Hong Kong Tourism Board confirmed that the farewell show will feature special pyrotechnic effects to mark the end of its 22-year history. The nightly performance will then be replaced by seasonal light displays at different locations across Hong Kong.
A Guinness World Record And 22 Years Of Harbour Lights
First launched in January 2004, A Symphony of Lights became one of Hong Kong’s signature tourist attractions. In November 2005, it earned a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, initially involving 20 buildings on Hong Kong Island.
The spectacle expanded to Kowloon and, by June 2007, featured 43 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour. Another major update arrived in December 2017, introducing a musical score recorded by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, combining traditional Chinese instruments with orchestral music.
In February 2024, the government had even announced plans for an all-new version of A Symphony of Lights, aiming to modernise the nightly attraction. However, those plans have since changed, with the government now opting to replace the daily show with seasonal light displays.
Over the years, the show became one the best free things to do in Hong Kong. We will certainly miss seeing the skyline light up at 8pm every evening, a familiar sight for generations of Hongkongers and visitors.
Where To Watch The Final Symphony Of Lights Show
The last performance will begin at 8pm on November 18, with special pyrotechnic effects added for the occasion. As usual, the show will be free to watch and popular viewing locations include:
- Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui
- Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre
- Golden Bauhinia Square promenade, Wan Chai
These are established viewing locations for the show, although special arrangements for the final evening have not yet been announced.
Following the farewell, the Hong Kong Tourism Board plans to introduce light festivals at different locations and times of the year. The new programmes are expected to roll out progressively in 2027.
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