Hong Kong will formally launch its Lunar New Year celebrations with the spectacular return of the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade 2026, transforming the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui into a dazzling, global spectacle. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the annual spectacle, themed “Best Fortune World Party,” is scheduled for the first day of the Lunar New Year, Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Starting at 9:00 PM, the event will feature a procession of intricate floats and international performance troupes celebrating the Year of the Horse.
A Global Celebration Takes Over Tsim Sha Tsui
The highly anticipated parade will dominate one of Hong Kong’s busiest districts, requiring extensive road closures in Tsim Sha Tsui to accommodate the elaborate route. Though the main procession runs for only 45 minutes, commencing at 9:00 PM, early attendance is strongly recommended, as spectators traditionally gather hours ahead to secure prime viewing spots along the route.
To enhance the pre-parade atmosphere, organizers have scheduled ancillary entertainment activities beginning at 6:00 PM. These performances, which include traditional lion and dragon dances, mesmerizing magic acts, and acrobatic rope skipping, are designed to entertain the crowds waiting for the main event to begin.
Showcase of Innovative Floats
The 2026 parade will feature 12 custom-designed floats sponsored by major corporations and partner organizations, each utilizing inventive design to interpret the festive theme and the Year of the Horse zodiac.
Notable floats include:
- Cathay: Celebrating its 80th anniversary with an aircraft-themed installation.
- Hong Kong Jockey Club: Tapping into its equine history with a moving float centered on horses and auspicious symbols, resonating strongly with the year’s zodiac animal.
- Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: Commemorating its 20th anniversary with a celebratory Disney-themed presentation.
- McDonald’s Hong Kong: Joining the festivities to mark its 50th anniversary with a nostalgic train design inspired by its iconic 1980s restaurant aesthetic.
- Ocean Park Hong Kong: Highlighting its animal ambassadors and signature attractions.
Furthermore, popular local cultural elements will also be mobile, including a float featuring the famous Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree and another from the Hong Kong Brand Toy Association showcasing the popular characters Labubu and Molly.
International Performers Debut in Hong Kong
Equally vital to the parade’s appeal are the live international performances. This year, sixteen performance teams from mainland China and countries around the world will converge in Hong Kong. Significantly, thirteen of these groups will be making their Hong Kong debut.
The global roster includes diverse acts such as: ornate masked dancers from the Philippines’ Bacolod City Masskara Festival; the traditional flag performance by Italy’s Bandierai degli Uffizi; the humorous Emoji Parade from Turkey; large-scale mechanical dinosaur choreography by Cromosauro; and the mesmerizing Tannoura Dance Group from Egypt, inspired by Sufi folklore. Other highlights feature The Bluecoats marching band, acrobatic skating, and cheerleading from Australia’s The Manly Seabirds.
Viewing Options and Logistics
The procession is set to begin at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui. Floats and performers will follow a route along Canton Road, transition onto Haiphong Road, and conclude their journey down Nathan Road, finishing near the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers. The procession is estimated to reach Canton Road around 8:30 PM.
Spectators have two primary options for viewing. Free-of-charge spots can be secured early along the entire route (Canton, Haiphong, and Nathan Roads). Alternatively, reserved seating is available at the spectator stands located at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Tickets for these stands, priced between HK$450 and HK$600, go on sale starting Saturday, February 7, at 8:00 AM, available for purchase at the HKTB Kowloon Visitor Centre near the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier.
Due to anticipated road closures before and after the event, public transportation via the MTR (Tsim Sha Tsui or Tsim Sha Tsui East Stations) or the Star Ferry from Hong Kong Island remains the most recommended mode of access.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live from 8:00 PM to 9:45 PM on the TVB Jade channel.
Extended Festival Engagement
The celebration extends beyond the primary parade night. From February 18 to March 3, select decorative floats will be exhibited at various popular locations across the city, including Ocean Park, Sha Tin Racecourse, and Victoria Park. Additionally, global performance troupes will host supplementary shows at Kai Tak Sports Park and local shopping malls on February 18 and 19, allowing audiences an extended opportunity to experience the international artistry brought to Hong Kong for the Lunar New Year.
