Hong Kong early Halloween festivities draw crowds, boost bar sales up to 20%

Halloween comes early to Hong Kong as festivities draw crowds, lift bar business

Hong Kong’s streets filled with costumed revellers and families a week before Halloween, while some establishments saw business increase by up to 20 per cent as early festivities drew visitors and locals.

Central celebrations bring crowds

The streets of Central were packed on Saturday as visitors and locals joined events held under the Tourism Board’s inaugural “Hong Kong Halloween Month”.

The campaign started last Saturday and includes street celebrations in Central, including Lan Kwai Fong, Kai Tak, Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui East.

The events are being held on three consecutive Saturdays and will culminate on Halloween night.

Hundreds of people of all ages filled Chater Road for “Halloween in Central”, adding to the crowds gathered across the city’s early celebrations.

The event featured a large eyeball installation at Statue Square, along with ghoulish face painting and themed food and drink options.

Among the offerings were cake pops shaped like eyeballs, giving the celebrations a food-and-entertainment focus alongside the street events.

The early campaign has brought together costumed revellers, families, visitors and local residents before Halloween itself, while the increase of up to 20 per cent at some establishments points to a business lift linked to the festivities.

Source: South China Morning Post