10 Events in Hong Kong That You Shouldn't Miss

Throughout most of China, the western calendar's marking of the new year is much less heralded than their own Lunar New Year. But with its colonial ties to Britain, Hong Kong honors the transition from December 31 to January 1 with as much fanfare as any western city. Victoria Harbor is the place to be to watch the clock count down to midnight each year, and, as the Chinese know how to do fireworks right, expect a spectacular pyromusical fireworkshow before heading out to other New Year's Eve parties around the city.

The Cheung Chau Bun Festival, held on Cheung Chau island in Hong Kong, is named for one of its most cherished features: bun snatching. The festival takes place from April to May annually and is one of many Taoist Da Jiu festivals held across greater China that ask the gods for peace in the region. Attractions include a parade of colorful floats and costumed children, as well as the bun snatching, where participants climb up steel towers or "mountains" covered in steamed lotus seed buns trying to snatch the highest one before snatching more as they race down.

Not many would guess that one of the most popular sporting events in Asia centres around rugby, but the Hong Kong Sevens does just that. Held annually at the famed Hong Kong stadium, this international rugby tournament brings together 28 teams from around the globe. Over the course of 3 days, upwards of 80,000 fans gather to watch the best rugby players in the world compete for the ultimate title. And, if you ever need a breather from the sporting action, there are plenty of other fun activities and musical entertainment to choose from.

China takes its Dragon Boats very seriously, as can be seen by the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival held in Victoria Harbour. This famed event, which is actually considered a national holiday in Hong Kong, brings together the best Dragon Boat athletes from around the country for a festive weekend of racing, live entertainment, and traditional ceremonies all fuelled by lots of beer. The huge crowds and “let the good times roll” mentality make it a must-see event for locals and tourists alike.

Hong Kong plays host to many trade exhibitions every year, but the Food Expo that takes place around August is certainly the tastiest. Thousands of vendors showcase produce, fine ingredients and international delicacies in the hopes of winning big contracts in the F&B industry. While the expo is free to attend if you pre-register, casual vistors might want to pay the extra fee that allows access to the Gourmet Zone, which offers a plethora of food and drink samples.

First held in 1990, the Hong Kong Book Fair has grown to be one of the region's most celebrated literary events. Millions of visitors stream through the exhibition halls each year around mid-April to peruse and purchase books as well as attend the many literary panels, forums and workshops. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council invites acclaimed authors and publishers from all over the world, and many of the panels are held in English. Activities held in other languages provide simultaneous English and Cantonese translation. The open forum is a fan favorite for the discussions it provokes.