A fireworks show was held near the observation wheel in Hong Kong on Jan. 1, 2015. (Photo : Reuters)
Tourists from mainland China formed long lines at a border station on Feb. 16 as they celebrated the Spring Festival in Hong Kong.
Around 7.88 million passengers will go through Hong Kong's control points during the week of festivities which will begin on Feb. 18, according to Hong Kong's Immigration Department.
An estimated 5.7 million people are expected to pass through boundary control points.
Chen Yu, a 33-year-old teacher who came to Beijing with his wife, said that "we are here not just for shopping, but mainly for experiencing Hong Kong's unique culture."
He said that Hong Kong is not a place limited only for luxury stores.
"We're extremely looking forward to the upcoming Lunar New Year activities, such as night parade and giant fireworks. I'm sure we'll have fun here," Yu said.
Hong Kong will be holding a series of festivities during the Lunar New Year to attract more tourists.
Becky Ip, a deputy executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board stated: "the Lunar New Year here gets a makeover that is uniquely Hong Kong. A blend of modern fun and ancient customs will present visitors an unforgettable experience."
"Hong Kong is not just a shopping Mecca. It has many sides to its complex personality. We hope that tourists could explore them and get a taste of local life," stated Ip.
Forbes Magazine recently listed Hong Kong's Lunar New Year celebrations as one of the world's 10 best festival extravaganzas, together with Oktoberfest from Germany and Carnival from Brazil.
Tourists may fill temples to pray for good fortune, shop in festive markets that sell bright flowers and foods, as well as take pictures of red lanterns that brighten up the city.
They can also watch a fabulous parade of local and international performers, a fireworks display at Victoria Harbot and thrilling horse racing action.
Alex Wong, a college student who came from Shanghai with his parents, said: "I'll definitely go to the horse races. I'm already feeling excited."
Horse racing is one of the most watched and loved events of the New Year's celebrations. Around a hundred thousand fans would gather on Sha Tin Racecourse on the third day of the holiday.
Other than those, there would be a grand opening show, a lion dance, as well as a variety of cultural performance and entertainment.
