Regular fireworks, drone displays to start in May

Hong Kong's regular fireworks and drone displays will make their debut next month, with the first show to light up the night near Tsim Sha Tsui on May 1, the start of the "Golden Week" national holiday. Speaking on a Commercial Radio programme, Dane Cheng, the executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, revealed that the first pyrotechnic show will be arranged near the East Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, starting at 8pm. Given the five-day holiday on the mainland, an influx of visitors is expected that week. The debut drone display will take place on May 11 at the Wan Chai Temporary Promenade, also starting at 8pm. Organisers say the event ties in with several traditional local festivals, including the Buddha’s Birthday, Cheung Chau Bun Festival, and the Tam Kung (Lord Tam) Festival. Announced in this year's budget, the shows are expected to take place every month. Cheng stressed that they're not only about luring tourists. “We had the experience of organising the [pyrotechnics] last year, including the summer holidays and the winter festivals… and it was very well received by our local residents as well as tourists," he said. “I do not think that just organising a pyro or drone [show] will draw visitors to come to Hong Kong for that purpose, but at least it would enhance the experience in Hong Kong, and make our night vibes better.” Another two shows will be arranged in June, with a drone display on June 10 and pyrotechnic show on June 15, both at Wan Chai. They tie in with the Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place on June 10. Cheng said the board intended to give plenty of notice of future events to businesses can get ready. Separately, Cheng said the board would launch a “hospitality movement” next month that's intended to make Hong Kong a more welcoming international city. “This hospitality movement is more about reminding us, not only merchants but everyone, how we could do better to be more hospitable. “There have been a lot of discussions and comments on how we should improve our service level, so we need to focus on high quality growth. You have to provide better services in all sectors, whether it's dining or retail or taxi services,” he said. Acknowledging a lull in tourist spending in recent months, Cheng said other territories were also seeing changes in consumer behaviour. “I do not think that Hong Kong could compete on pricing alone, it should be on the content itself… and also to differentiate ourselves in what we can offer to consumers," he noted. "It’s more about the experience, and we are all learning about it."