Mid-Autumn Lantern Show at Victoria Park Shines Bright
As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, Victoria Park in Hong Kong is illuminated with a week-long lantern carnival that promises to dazzle visitors with its vibrant displays and intricate designs. This year’s lantern show is one of three carnivals held across the city to celebrate the festival, with the other two taking place in Tsing Yi Park and Cultural Centre Plaza in Tsim Sha Tsui.
The lantern carnival at Victoria Park, themed “Charm in the Air: Chinese Style, Hong Kong Flair,” boasts a stunning 12-metre tall lantern display inspired by the traditional Tang suit and qipao. Designed by lantern artist Leo Tang, the elaborate installation took three months to create, with a focus on safety and attention to detail.
Tang shared his thoughts on the design process, stating, “Such a tall installation has never been placed in Victoria Park, so safety was my top priority. I wanted to showcase the beauty of Chinese culture and Hong Kong’s unique flair through this lantern display.” The lantern features intricate details and vibrant colors, drawing inspiration from local cuisine and street-food stalls.
Another standout lantern at the carnival is the “Phoenix Dancing with the Full Moon to Celebrate the National Day,” crafted by veteran paper craftsman Hui Ka-hung. Reflecting on the challenges of creating the spinning and lighting installation, Hui expressed his joy at overcoming obstacles and bringing his vision to life.
Chris Chan, Community Programmes Manager at the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, highlighted the significance of the “The Tree of Budding Creativity” installation. Standing at 7.5 metres tall, the display features 750 lanterns created by students from primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong. Each lantern showcases the students’ creativity in celebrating both the National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Local Artisans Shine at Mid-Autumn Lantern Show
The lantern carnival at Victoria Park not only features impressive displays by renowned artists but also showcases the talent of local artisans and craftsmen. Visitors can marvel at the intricate paper lanterns, handcrafted with precision and skill, that adorn the park during the festival.
One such artisan, Wong Mei-ling, shared her experience creating a traditional paper lantern for the carnival. “I have been making lanterns for over 20 years, and each design is a labor of love. It’s a joy to see my creations light up the night sky and bring joy to others,” she said. Wong’s lantern, inspired by the beauty of nature and traditional Chinese motifs, is a testament to her dedication to the craft.
In addition to the traditional paper lanterns, the carnival features modern light installations and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. From luminous sculptures to glowing art installations, the lantern show offers a mix of traditional and contemporary designs that celebrate the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with Tai Hang Fire Dragon
As the Mid-Autumn Festival culminates in a night of celebration and festivities, visitors to Victoria Park can look forward to a special appearance by the Tai Hang Fire Dragon. A symbol of tradition and cultural heritage, the fire dragon dance is a highlight of the festival, drawing crowds from far and wide to witness the spectacle.
The Tai Hang Fire Dragon, a mythical creature made of bamboo and incense sticks, will weave its way through the park, accompanied by drummers and performers. The rhythmic beat of the drums and the crackling of the fire create a mesmerizing atmosphere, transporting spectators to a world of ancient rituals and legends.
In addition to the fire dragon dance, all lanterns at Victoria Park will be lit until midnight on Mid-Autumn Festival, offering visitors a chance to admire the dazzling displays and soak in the festive atmosphere. From traditional lanterns to modern light installations, the carnival at Victoria Park is a celebration of art, culture, and community spirit.
In conclusion, the Mid-Autumn Lantern Show at Victoria Park is a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of Hong Kong. As the city comes alive with lanterns, music, and festivities, visitors are invited to join in the celebration and experience the magic of the Mid-Autumn Festival in all its splendor.
