What & Where to Drink This Sober October With Sipfree
Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness

Where to Buy Non-Alc Drinks This Sober October With Sipfree

Where to Buy Non Alc Drinks this Sober October with Sipfree The Beat Asia

After a raucous hot summer in Hong Kong, you may be looking for a reset or abstinence from alcohol as the weather cools and travel picks up again. With the first week of Sober October done and non-alcoholic beverages becoming more popular in the city, Hong Kongers are looking for ways to cut down on alcoholic consumption and become healthier.

Established in 2019, Hong Kong’s leading non-alcoholic drinks distributor and store Sipfree is set to make your Sober October pleasant and fruitful, with a wide range of low- and no-alcohol beers and ciders, wines, and spirits sold exclusively online and across Hong Kong supermarkets.

With a range of drinks found in 5-star hotels, restaurants, bars, and private clubs throughout the city, we guide you on the places to find Sipfree’s bestselling and leading products for your Sober October.


Non-alcoholic Craft Beers

0.5% Big Drop Brewing Co. Pine Trail Pale Ale

Brewed under the award-winning low-alcohol craft beer company Big Drop Brewing, Pine Trail Pale Ale is a best seller on Sipfree, featuring strong rosy and floral hoppy aromas with lime citrus bites on the palate. The Pale Ale won World’s Best Style and Pale Low Alcohol at the World Beer Awards in 2020.

Locations

0.5% VandeStreek Playground IPA

The Dutch-brewed bottled beer packs a punch with a fluffy carbonated alcoholic taste, brewed with five different varieties of American hops, with none of the alcohol present. The cloudy IPA holds a faint orange flavour and provokes tropical and citrus fruit notes on the nose, complemented with a subtle bitterness for an aftertaste.

Locations

  • Ladies Recreation Club, 10 Old Peak Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, +852 3199 3500
  • The Cool Cousins, Room J, 11/F, Block 3, Camel Paint Building, 60 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, +852 3425 4611
  • The Globe, 45-53A Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2543
  • The Bottle Shop, GF 114 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, +852 2791 1600


0.5% Big Drop Brewing Co. Citra IPA

Squeezing in that characteristically fruity flavour native to IPAs, this Big Drop version with minimal alcohol retains all the brightness of citrus and the twang of bitterness from hops. A tropical delight in a can, keep the good times rolling with pours that won’t weigh you down.

Locations


0.3% Mikkeller Drink'In The Sun American Wheat Ale

Transporting the craft beer experience of a wheat-based ale that’s full of hoppiness, the Mikkeller maintains the summery earthen flavours of its spiked counterparts, all whilst retaining a sense of delicateness. Drink it up from the bottle while it’s cool, for the ultimate refreshment that ends on a strong note of bitters.

Locations

  • Liquor Land, 31 Staunton Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2327 0125
  • Sheraton Four Points, 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island, +852 2535 0000,
  • Café Isara, 18A Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, +852 2470 1966

Non-alcoholic Sparkling Wines

0% Carl Jung Mousseux

Celebrating alcohol-free doesn’t require you to skip the uproarious ritual of popping bottles! A significantly less-calorically laden and alcohol-less version of Champagne, this Mousseux is a pleasantly bubbly and gorgeously sweet-smelling drink to clink with or accompany a festive feast too, so raise a glass and say cheers!

Locations

  • Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 3196 8888
  • Leeder Quay, 123 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 7074 0208
  • Grappas, LG08, LG/F Lee Garden Two, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 3529 1871

0% Carl Jung Sparkling Rosé

    Conjuring up summertime sensations with its notes of raspberries and strawberries, this sparkling pink wine is light and fine. A delicate fizz to add to any occasion, or to make a casual hangout become an occasion, its sleek taste is gentle and fruity.

    Locations

    Non-alc Spirits & Beverage Sets

    0% Lyre's Dry London Gin

    Capturing the intricate flavours that make Gin amazing, Lyre’s offers a top-shelf non-alcoholic interpretation that draws on fragrant juniper berries, freshness from citrus, and a kick of warmth from pepperberry, that rounds out into a characteristically dry finish. Enjoy this as you would with a simple G&T, or spruce things up with a sprig of rosemary, some grapefruit, and throw it on the rocks!

    Available online via Sipfree

    0% Aperol Spritz Set - 1x Lyre's Italian Spritz + 1x Carl Jung Mousseux

    Famously an easy to knock back concoction thanks to their lightness, breezy spritzes have been transformed into completely alcohol-free versions thanks to Lyre’s artisanal Aperol and Campari inspired Italian Spritz. Conveniently paired with a Carl Jung Mousseux sparkling aperitif wine, splash in some bubbles and feel yourself get whisked away to the Amalfi Coastline.

    Exclusively online via Sipfree

    0% Lyre's Espresso Martini Set / Salted Caramel Espresso Martini Set

    A cosmopolitan cocktail famously punchy yet lusciously drinkable, the one-of-a-kind Espresso Martini has been reinterpreted by Lyre’s into a non-alcoholic alternative that retains its unique palate. With this handy Lyre’s bottle duo, shake up some Lyre’s Coffee Originale with some Lyre’s White Cane Spirit and add in drops of cold drip or fresh espresso and vanilla syrup for a frothy, rich, and aromatic concoction. Swap the latter out for its spiced counterpart, the Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, and you’ll have yourself a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini that’s got that extra sharp touch.

    Available online via Sipfree

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    This Week's Event In Hong Kong

    Hong Kong/ Nomads/ Hotels
    Fin-credible Adventure with Pinkfong Baby Shark at Regala Skycity Hotel
    1 Photo by Regala Skycity Hotel

    Regala Skycity Hotel has launched an exciting family-friendly experience: a "Fin-credible Adventure with Pinkfong Baby Shark," kicking off its launch with a grand opening event in collaboration with Bodhi Love Foundation, EcoDrive, and Yan Oi Tong

    The event featured interactive game booths, a marine conservation presentation by EcoDrive, and a heartwarming performance by 30 kindergarten students from Yan Oi Tong. There was also guided dance sessions and a storytelling corner hosted by Bodhi Love Foundation. 

    Baby Shark-Themed Staycation
    Regala Skycity Hotel

    Regala Skycity's new themed staycation offers families an unforgettable underwater-inspired getaway. Available until Aug. 31, 2025, the Baby Shark Deluxe Suite and Cabana Suite will be decked out with Baby Shark décor, exclusive amenities, and exciting activities from the living area all the way to the bathroom. 

    Each stay also includes a complimentary Baby Shark plush toy, perfect as a special keepsake for little ones! Beyond the rooms, guests also have full access to hotel facilities, including the Sky Deck, Aqua outdoor pool, putting green, shuttle bus services, along with photo opportunities at every corner. 

    What's more, guests can also enjoy up to a 35% discount on dining throughout their stay. 

    Sustainable Seafood Buffet
    Petra @ Regala Skycity Hotel
    Baby Shark Waffle Set
    Regala Skycity Hotel

    The Baby Shark theme does not end here! For the younger foodies, a Baby Shark Kids' Menu is available. The set includes a Japanese ham and potato salad, crispy fish fingers, a mini hot dog submarine, and smiley face hashbrowns, ending the meal with a Baby Shark waffle with blueberry whipped cream. 

    For those who only want the Baby Shark waffle, a standalone waffle set is available as well, served with Baby Shark chocolate milk or latte

    For parents, Petra restaurant offers a sustainable seafood buffet, with over 60 international delicacies, including Boston lobsters, Canadian snow crab legs, sashimi, various gourmet pizzas, and Spanish black caviar. Available during both lunch and dinner service. 

    For more information, visit Regala Skycity Hotel's website and follow their Instagram and Facebook

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    Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness
    Breathe Your Way to Peak Performance at Hong Kong Breath Club
    Untitled design 2025 02 24 T144452 125 Photo by Breathonics/Instagram

    In the middle of Hong Kong’s relentless hustle, a new movement is taking shape — one breath at a time.  

    Enter Hong Kong Breath Club (HKBC), which kicked off its first session on Feb. 19, 2025, with the simple but powerful goal: to help people lower their heart rate by just 5% through small, easy-to-follow steps. It might not sound like much, but as it turns out, that tiny shift using just the power of breath can lead to amazing changes for both mind and body.

    It’s a well-established fact that proper breathing enhances oxygen flow to the brain, promoting sharpened mental clarity and overall calm and well-being. Whether you're seeking a moment of calm or a way to elevate your mental performance, HKBC empowers you to harness the simple yet profound benefits of breathwork.

    Using science-backed breathing techniques and guided by expert practitioners in breathwork, HKBC’s One-Hour Power Up Breathing Workout can help you stay calm, improve focus, and even give you a competitive edge — be it in your career, personal life, or athletic pursuits. Past attendees shared that they gained more focus and energy, less stress, and had life-changing improvements that rippled through their days as a result of Breathwork practices. 

    Bradley Dowdin-Young, CEO of Breathonics said, “We are removing the esoteric nature of breathing exercises and delivering practical, data-driven ways for people to improve their performance by resetting their nervous systems.”

    Breathonics workshop
    Photo by The Beat Asia

    The multi-sensory breathwork app Breathonics, founded by Young, provides a convenient and practical way to incorporate breath optimization into your daily routine. They offer guided breathwork with custom electronic music, real-time heart rate analysis via Apple Watch, and personalized recommendations based on sleep and heart rate data.

    Their case study with a Fortune 500 company discovered that after regular use of Breathonics, 74% of participants managed stress better, 68% experienced improved focus, and productivity increased by 20.1% — with better sleep saving them an average of three hours a week.

    "This is a city that we all love so much, and we want to help improve it with the power of its people one breath at a time. We have to stop ignoring these easy solutions that have a clear impact on creating a calmer world,” Bradley said. 

    The next Hong Kong Breath Club session is just around the corner on Mar. 9, from 11 AM to 12 PM. Ready to unlock the power of your breath? Sign up now here

    For more information, visit HKBC on their website, or follow Breathonics on Instagram and Facebook

    Location: Mihn Studio, 4F, 279 Des Voeux Rd Central, Sheung Wan

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    Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Relationships
    Fun & Unique Workshops to Do with Your Partner This Valentine's
    Silver Ring Jewellery Making Workshop Photo by Website/Obellery Artisan Jewellery Studio

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Hong Kong with a memorable hands-on experience! Skip the usual dinner date and bond with your partner through a creative workshop, from charcuterie bouquet making to jewellery making, you won't forget. Whether you're looking to craft something special together or simply enjoy a fun activity, these workshops offer a unique way to connect and make lasting memories. Here are the best Valentine’s workshops to try in Hong Kong!

    Floral Flavors: A Charcuterie Bouquet Workshop

    1 Floral Flavors: A Charcuterie Bouquet Workshop
    Website/Eventbrite

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a creative and delicious twist at the Floral Flavors: A Charcuterie Bouquet Workshop on Feb. 13, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at the Hive Poho in Sheung Wan. This hands-on experience lets you and your partner craft a stunning and edible grazing bouquet, perfect for gifting or indulging together. Hosted by Grazie Events, known for their beautifully curated grazing cups, the workshop includes all materials and two complimentary drinks. 

    Book your spot now and enjoy a fun, intimate evening filled with artful snacking! General admission is priced at HK$480 for two. For more details, visit Grazie Events HK on Instagram.

    Tufting Workshop

    2 Tufting Workshop
    Website/Klook

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a fun and creative Tufting Workshop at Get Together Workshop, where you and your partner can design and craft a unique carpet, pillow, or wall hanging. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll use a tufting gun to weave colorful wool (with over 100 colors to choose from) into a custom piece of art.

    The workshop runs daily from 12 PM to 7 PM at Room B2, 4/F, Wing Cheong Industrial Building, 109 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, just a two-minute walk from Kwun Tong MTR Station. Prices start from HK$850 for a 50x50 cm frame under a Buy One Get One Free promotion, making it an affordable and romantic date idea. Sessions last around three to five hours, depending on the frame size. 

    Book in advance via Klook or WhatsApp at 44461793 to secure your spot!

    Valentines Teddy Bear Workshop

    3 Valentines Teddy Bear Workshop
    Facebook/The Block Hong Kong

    Celebrate love sustainably at the Valentine’s Teddy Bear Workshop, where you and your partner can craft a one-of-a-kind teddy bear using upcycled premium fabric. Held at The Block Hong Kong in Wan Chai until Feb. 14, this hands-on experience lets couples assemble, fill, and install movable joints into their bears, creating a meaningful keepsake. 

    The workshop runs in two sessions daily, with Class A from 2 PM to 4 PM and Class B from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, each lasting 120 minutes. A guided introduction to sewing techniques is included, making it suitable for those with basic sewing skills or beginners looking to learn. Prices start from HK$296.77 per participant. Reserve a spot via Eventbrite. For inquiries, contact The Block Hong Kong directly.

    Engraved Tile Coloring Workshop

    4 Engraved Tile Coloring Workshop
    Website/Glocal Mahjong

    Discover the artistry of Mahjong at the Engraved Tile Coloring Workshop, a hands-on experience where you and your partner can personalize hand-carved Mahjong tiles with vibrant colors. Held at Glocal Mahjong's flagship store at PMQ for HK$490 per person, this unique workshop is open daily at 11 AM to 12:30 PM or 8 PM to 9:30 PM in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin, with sessions available for two to six participants per booking.

    Each session involves two letter or flower tiles to decorate and introduces participants to traditional coloring techniques, while exploring the rich history and symbolism of Mahjong tiles. Book a session here. For inquiries or bookings, contact [email protected].

    Silver Ring Jewellery Making Workshop

    5 Silver Ring Jewellery Making Workshop
    Website/Obellery Artisan Jewellery Studio

    Create lasting memories this love month with a Silver Ring Jewellery Making Workshop. Guided by experienced tutors, you’ll learn essential silversmithing techniques such as piercing, filing, soldering, hammering, and polishing. The workshop offers three levels, each with different design templates and techniques. Level 1 (1.5-2 hours) costs HK$980 per person and focuses on minimalist, everyday wear rings. Level 2 (2-3 hours) is HK$1,280, introducing more intricate metalworking techniques, while Level 3 (2-3 hours) is HK$1,480, featuring advanced designs requiring extra precision.

    Classes are limited to four participants, and laser engraving is available for an additional HK$160 per ring. Book a slot here. Obellery Artisan Jewellery Studio is open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM. For more details, contact [email protected].

    Rose Lollipop Workshop

    6 Rose Lollipop Workshop
    Website/PAPABUBBLE

    Celebrate love in the sweetest way this Valentine’s Day with the Rose Lollipop Workshop at PAPABUBBLE in Tai Hang. Under the guidance of an experienced Candy Master, you and your partner will handcraft two delicate rose-shaped lollipops in a variety of vibrant colors including red, pink, purple, white, black, blue, and yellow. Each session lasts for 40 minutes and are conducted in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin.

    Make your Valentine’s celebration extra special with this sweet and memorable workshop! Reserve a slot here. Bookings must be confirmed in advance via WhatsApp at 6311 8286 or email at [email protected]. PAPABUBBLE is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.

    Marbled Candle Workshop

    7 Marbled Candle Workshop
    Website/Hiraya Scent & Co.

    Make the month of love sweeter with the Marbled Candle Workshop, a unique hands-on experience where you and your partner can craft a beautifully marbled, 220g scented candle. Taking place at Hiraya Scent & Co. at PMQ, Central, this two-hour session lets you explore and blend fragrances, work with sustainable Coconut Apricot Wax, and create your own candle design using a variety of color options. Whether you prefer a solid hue or a stunning marbled effect, this workshop encourages creativity while ensuring a relaxing and intimate experience!

    Once your candle is poured and solidifying, enjoy complimentary celebratory drinks to toast to your creation. The workshop costs HK$580 per person and includes all materials, guidance from experienced hosts, and optional DIY labels. Book a slot here and choose from two timeslots: 11 AM or 7 PM.

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    Hong Kong/ Nomads/ Explore
    A Parent’s Guide to Enjoying Hong Kong Disneyland with Kids and Babies
    HK Disneyland Tips Photo by Hong Kong Disneyland/Instagram

    For many families, visiting Hong Kong Disneyland is more than just a trip – it’s a milestone. It’s where little ones get to meet the characters they love, experience the magic of fairy tales, try iconic Disneyland treats, and create core memories with loved ones. However, a visit to this enchanting destination can also be a source of stress, especially for parents juggling the young ones’ needs while trying to make the most of the park’s attractions.

    If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong Disneyland with babies and kids, preparation is key. From understanding ticket prices to knowing the height requirements for rides, we’ve got tips to help you make your family outing smooth and unforgettable. Be guided by some reminders below:

    Visiting Hong Kong Disneyland: Plan Ahead

    When planning your HK Disneyland visit, make sure you check weather websites for forecasts. Hong Kong can get hot and humid so make sure you bring hats and fans. You can also download the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort official mobile app so you can look into park hours, review maps, and locate the attractions you want to visit.

    Take note of these must-dos before your trip:

    • Buy tickets in advance

    You can book online to avoid long queues at the entrance and take advantage of discounts and bundles. Ticket prices vary depending on the Tier Level. General admission tickets are priced from HK$669 to HK$939 per person. Children aged 3 to 11 and seniors aged 60 and above can enjoy a discounted ticket price of around HK$639. Kids under 3 years old enter for free. For families planning to visit frequently, the park also offers two-day passes and Magic Access memberships. Be sure to check the official Hong Kong Disneyland website for promotional offers, as discounts and packages for families are often available. Don’t forget to note the validity date of your tickets.

    • Plan your visit and note the attractions

    Attractions like "It's a Small World," "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh," and "Dumbo the Flying Elephant" are perfect for little ones. Maximize the app and check if there are character meet-and-greets as well.

    • Pack smart!

    Bring essentials like diapers, baby wipes, formula/milk, snacks, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Lightweight strollers are a must or you can rent one at the park.

    Once at the park, you can also take advantage of Hong Kong Disneyland’s family-friendly amenities such as:

    Baby Care Center: Located on Main Street, U.S.A., the Baby Care Center provides a comfortable space for nursing and diaper changes. Facilities include a nursing room, diaper-changing stations, highchairs upon request, and access to a refrigerator, microwave, and hot water for preparing baby meals.

    Companion Restrooms: To make restroom visits easier, the park features six Companion Restrooms where parents and kids can go together, avoiding any inconvenience.

    Stroller Parking: Convenient stroller parking areas are available near major attractions. Simply leave your stroller with a Cast Member, enjoy the attraction, and retrieve your stroller with the provided parking ticket.

    Height Requirements for Rides at HK Disneyland

    Safety is a priority at Hong Kong Disneyland, and height restrictions are in place for certain attractions. For example, rides like Hyperspace Mountain and RC Racer require riders to be at least 102 cm tall, while the Iron Man Experience and Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars have a minimum height requirement of 112 cm. Don’t worry if your little ones don’t meet the height requirements — there are plenty of kid-friendly options they can enjoy.

    You can also catch shows like "Mickey and the Wondrous Book" or the evening fireworks are relaxing ways to keep kids entertained without standing in line.

    A full list of height requirements is available on the park’s website or at the entrance of each ride, so you can plan your itinerary accordingly. You can also review all the attractions online.

    The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for Little Princesses

    For young princesses-in-the-making, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is an experience not to be missed. Located in the castle area, this enchanting salon transforms little ones into royalty with beautiful costumes, hairstyling, and accessories. Packages range from simple hairstyling to full transformations with princess dresses, tiaras, and keepsake photos.

    Appointments at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are highly sought after, so booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. Be sure to check the age requirements and available time slots on the HK Disneyland website.

    Stroller Rentals at Hong Kong Disneyland

    Navigating the park with young children can be tiring, but Hong Kong Disneyland makes it easier with stroller rentals. Here’s what you need to know:

    Rental Location: Strollers can be rented at the old-time firehouse next to City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. They are for in-park use only and cannot be taken outside or used on Main Street vehicles and trains.

    Pricing:

    • Stroller: HK$150 per day (HK$90 for eligible guests with disabilities).
    • Rain cover or stroller lock: HK$50 per day each.
    • Deposit: A refundable deposit of HK$100 per item is required and can be redeemed when all items are returned with the rental ticket by the end of the day.

    Availability: Rentals are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not allowed.

    With a bit of planning and the right information, a trip to Hong Kong Disneyland can be as magical as it is memorable. Visit the Hong Kong Disneyland website for more information. Follow them on Instagram to stay updated.

    Location: Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

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    Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Family
    Yuletide Season in HK: Cheap Christmas Activities to Try This 2024
    Snapinsta app 469736112 18462248188064800 6895505823766430522 n 1080 Photo by Website/WestK HK

    Are you looking for ways to make the most of Christmas in Hong Kong without emptying your wallet? With the holiday spirit alive and well in the city, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without spending too much. From twinkling lights to fun Christmas markets, you can enjoy the sounds of holiday songs, savor festive food, and find unique Christmas gifts.

    Here are eight activities you can do this Christmas season in Hong Kong, all on a budget.

    Stroll Through Christmas Displays

    Hong Kong’s streets are decked out in blinking Christmas lights, and the best part is, you can enjoy most of them for free. Take a casual walk through areas like Avenue of Stars and Central Harbourfront, and let the festive lights brighten your day. These spots are perfect for snapping a few pictures with your family or friends or just soaking in the holiday ambiance.

    Take a Walk Through Hong Kong Park

    Hong Kong Park in 2024 Greenery Nature HK Parks Family Friendly Spots
    Website/HK Tourism Board

    If you’re looking for a peaceful way to enjoy the Christmas season without spending anything, Hong Kong Park is the place to be. While it doesn’t have flashy holiday displays, the park’s eye-catching greenery and calm atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind during the cooler months. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa, wander along the scenic paths, or simply sit on a bench and soak in the holiday spirit with your family and friends.

    Explore Christmas Town in Kowloon

    If you’re looking for a place to soak in some Christmas wonder without spending a dime, head to Christmas Town in Kowloon. The towering Christmas tree and festive displays make this area a must-see. The event runs until Jan. 1, 2025, offering plenty of time to experience the holiday magic. Make sure to bring your kids, as they’ll love meeting Santa Claus, taking photos, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

    Visit WestK Christmas Market at Art Park

    For a festive outing with a mix of international flavors and Christmas gifts, the WestK Christmas Market is a great option. Open at the Harbourside Mid Lawn of the Art Park, this market runs until Dec. 29 and features six specialty booths alongside more than 30 additional booths offering festive food and unique Christmas gifts. It’s a laid-back and affordable way to spend time with loved ones while discovering new and fun seasonal treats.

    Experience A Furry Christmas Wonderland at Central Market

    Building Colorful Modern Animal-Friendly Event This Christmas in HK Hong Kong Christmas Events
    Website/HK Tourism Board

    For a magical Christmas experience with a furry twist, head to Central Market, where beloved characters like Lucifer from “Cinderella," the Dalmatian family from “101 Dalmatians,” and Marie from “The Aristocrats” come to life for the first time in Hong Kong. Snap photos with these classic characters and enjoy over 20 pet-themed activities that are perfect for creating memories with your pets.

    Relax at Victoria Park

    Open Court in Hong Kong Scenic Victoria Park Where Families Can Bond
    Website/HK Tourism Board

    Located in the heart of Causeway Bay, Victoria Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. During the Christmas season, the park is full of residents enjoying the weather and spending time outdoors. Sure, there are not a lot of Christmas displays here, but the festive spirit is palpable as families gather and people engage in leisurely activities.

    Join the Noir Gold Christmas Soiree at Stanley Plaza

    Get into the festive spirit with Stanley Plaza’s ninth annual Noir Gold Christmas Soiree, happening from Dec. 21 to 26. This year’s elegant black-and-gold theme is the perfect backdrop for over 120 stalls featuring a mix of new and beloved brands, including Macau’s DIGREEN ice cream and local favorites like Wun Kee’s eggrolls. Don’t miss the Winter Rendezvous with Ramon Christmas Bazaar at Murray House, where you can enjoy gourmet treats, fun games, and a charity sale benefiting the Little Life Warriors Society.

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    Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness
    Would You Join This Inclusive Fitness Challenge? What to Know about Hyrox
    How Hyrox Redefines Fitness in HK

    The recently concluded Hyrox Hong Kong race — held last Nov. 23 to 24 2024 at the AsiaWorld Expo — brought out the best of the best in the city’s fitness community. Of course, “the best of the best” didn’t just include elite athletes, it also encompassed those with a passion for health and wellness.

    Priding itself on inclusivity, Hyrox Hong Kong welcomed 6,500 participants over the course of two days for a challenging yet invigorating race that included a 1-kilometer run and various fitness stations.

    “Hyrox events follow a consistent format across all competitions, ensuring fairness and compatibility,” shared Hyrox APAC Managing Director Gary Wan. “Each event consists of a one-kilometer run followed by a functional workout station, repeated eight times. The workout stations include exercises such as SkiErg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jumps, rowing, farmers carry, sandbag lunges, and wall balls. The consistent race format enables global leaderboards and a cumulative World Championships at the end of each race season.”

    Founded in Germany in 2017 by Christian Toetzke and Moritz Fürste, Hyrox has since seen an exponential growth in popularity. This year alone, global events attracted a combined total of over 210,000 participants.

    In Hong Kong, 6,500 participants hit the course, representing a threefold increase from our previous event in 2023,” Gary noted. “The atmosphere was electric, as competitors from diverse backgrounds came together to push their limits and celebrate the spirit of fitness.”

    Those who missed the 2024 edition needn’t fear as the Hyrox 2025 lineup has already been announced. They begin with a Manchester race in January and will be followed up by events in Las Vegas, Guadalajara, Bilbao, and Rotterdam in February.

    Hyrox also aims to bring the popular sports event to major Asian cities within the next two years. “Hyrox is already in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Beijing, and Incheon with Tokyo and Bangkok races planned for 2025,” he revealed. “There is hope of increasing from 150 to 170 [events] worldwide and engaging a million participants annually.”

    Hyrox is an inclusive fitness event
    Hyrox is an inclusive fitness event | Instagram/Hyrox HK

    But what exactly makes Hyrox so popular despite its physical demands? Aside from the convenience of holding the race indoors (and thereby unaffected by weather), Hyrox has also been tailored to include as many participants as possible.

    “What sets HYROX apart is its inclusivity; participants of all fitness levels can take part, with categories tailored to different ambitions,” Gary shared. Hyrox divisions include Pro Women’s/Men’s, Open Women’s/Men’s, Doubles Women’s/Men’s/Mixed, Doubles Pro Women’s/Men’s, and a Relay Women’s Men’s Mixed Division.

    Hyrox challenges a person's overall fitness profile
    Hyrox challenges a person's overall fitness profile | Instagram/Hyrox HK

    Hyrox races also challenge a person’s overall fitness profile, focusing on a well-rounded fitness profile. Challenges are made to test a person’s strength, endurance, speed, and mental toughness, without discrimination for one or the other.

    The fact that Hyrox is present in multiple cities globally also fosters a community for participants, making it a fun challenge that is relatable on a global scale. “Our global presence has fostered a vibrant and supportive community, where participants often praise the camaraderie and encouragement experienced at events,” noted Gary.

    A fitness enthusiast himself, Gary observed that training in a community fosters motivation and social connection, “Participants also benefit from the collective knowledge and experience of others, which can lead to improved techniques and strategies.”

    The Hyrox race gives people a sense of fulfillment
    The Hyrox race gives people a sense of fulfillment | Instagram/Clare Cheung

    Ultimately, Gary believes that Hyrox events provide people with a sense of accomplishment and personal growth. Overcoming the rigors of this popular indoor race can definitely give a participant a sense of fulfillment — which, Gary believes, is ultimately why people have been flocking to sign up.

    To know more about Hyrox, visit their website and follow them on Instagram.

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    Hong Kong/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness
    Mind HK Launches 'Unseen Struggles' Fundraising Campaign for Mental Health
    Untitled design 2024 12 13 T153033 419 Photo by Courtesy of Mind HK

    Local mental health charity Mind HK is raising funds to expand Improving Access to Community Therapies (iACT) program, launched in 2022, offering free, professional one-on-one psychological support to those struggling with mild to moderate depression or anxiety.

    With public mental health services facing waits of up to two years, iACT provides timely, evidence-based care for those in need.

    The Unseen Struggles campaign, running through December, shares stories from eight individuals who’ve faced mental health challenges, shedding light on their experiences to inspire understanding and support.

    One of the participants in the campaign includes Yvette Kong, an Olympic swimmer and lululemon mental well-being global advisory board member. The goal currently stands to raise HK$400,000, which will provide over 165 free therapy sessions.

    iACT’s impact is clear: between Sept. 2023 and April 2024, over 70% of participants reported significant improvement, and nearly 65% with severe symptoms recovered after two or more sessions.

    Unseen Struggles
    Courtesy of Mind HK

    Donating HK$375 can cover the cost of one therapy session for someone in need. Contributions over HK$500 come with a festive card by artist Erin Hung. Additionally, lululemon will match donations for the “Unseen Struggles campaign, enabling donors to double their impact during the campaign’s second week.

    Help make a difference by donating via the Mind HK fundraising page on Give Asia.

    For updates and more information, visit Mind HK on their website, or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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