Dubai, UAE – On 17 February, the first day of the Chinese New Year, the city will host the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, transforming the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui into a vibrant open-air carnival of light, music, and global performances. The parade will begin at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and proceed along major thoroughfares including Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road, starting at 8:00 pm.

Held under the theme “BEST FORTUNE. WORLD PARTY.”, the 2026 edition celebrates the horse as a symbol of strength, vitality, progress, and success in Chinese culture. The night-long parade will feature an impressive lineup of themed floats designed to usher in good fortune for the year ahead. Several participating brands will mark major milestones, including Cathay’s 80th anniversary, Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary, and McDonald’s Hong Kong’s 50th anniversary, adding further excitement to the festivities. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association will also make its debut with a float showcasing popular IP characters.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Ocean Park Hong Kong will present its beloved Panda Friends, while the Hong Kong Jockey Club will highlight the zodiac year with glittering horse installations symbolizing prosperity. Selected floats will later be displayed at Kai Tak Sports Park from 18 to 27 February, extending the parade experience throughout the festive season.

The parade will also spotlight Hong Kong’s international character through a diverse lineup of performances from around the world. Highlights include France’s illuminated horse tableaux by FierS à Cheval, high-energy acts from the Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe of the Chinese Mainland, Canada’s comedic acrobatic duo Les Vitaminés, and the debut appearance of Australia’s Manly Seabirds cheer performers. Traditional elements will blend with innovation as the Luminous Dragon Dance by the Chinese Martial Arts Dragon and Lion Dance Association of Hong Kong, China, meets Italy’s striking Cromosauro dinosaur installation.

Beyond the parade, the celebrations will extend across the city. Lunar New Year Fairs, also known as flower markets, will take place from 11 to 17 February, filling parks and community spaces such as Victoria Park and Fa Hui Park with seasonal blooms and festive decorations. On 19 February, the third day of the Chinese New Year, visitors can enjoy the popular Year of the Horse Raceday at Sha Tin Racecourse, featuring thrilling horse races and entertainment.

Festive traditions continue with the Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival in Lam Tsuen from 17 February to 3 March, where visitors can cast wishes for the year ahead, as well as visits to historic temples including Wong Tai Sin, Che Kung, and Kwun Yum to pray for fortune, prosperity, and success.

With its dazzling parade, citywide celebrations, and welcoming festive spirit, Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year programme promises an unforgettable start to the Year of the Horse, offering visitors a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and world-class entertainment.