What’s On HKG: 2023 Christmas Events Edition, Dec. 19 - 25

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in the 852! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Hong Kong’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings, to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Hong Kong to see what’s best in store for the week ahead. 

1. AIA Carnival Winter Wonderland at Central Harbourfront

Get ready to embrace the magic of winter with the return of Hong Kong's much-loved AIA Carnival, transforming the Central Harbourfront Event Space into a dazzling festive wonderland. This carnival is a treasure trove of heartrate-raising rides, enthralling games, and mesmerizing street performers, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of every age.

In the build-up to this extravaganza, Hong Kong will be alive with promotions and giveaways. Keep an eye out for AIA Carnival’s street performers, who will be spreading cheer and offering freebies across the city. To catch a glimpse of all the wonders that await, click here for our full guide on the AIA Carnival in Hong Kong.

2. Seaside Pet Chill Christmas Carnival at Wan Chai

Sprawling across a vast expanse of 3,000 square feet, wagging tails and merry hearts come together for the ultimate holiday bash. Hosting 40 stalls bursting with everything from unique handicraft gifts to gourmet treats for the canines and limited-edition craft beers for the humans. It's a paradise that caters to both two-legged and four-legged connoisseurs.

Speaking of pampering, the 'Furry-tale Stalls' are a pet lifestyle haven, ensuring your companions are decked out in festive style. Then, let your dogs unleash their inner athletes in the 'Furry Fitness Zone,’ mixing and mingling with star SPCA rescue dogs. As for visitors making their way to the carnival during Christmas weekend, there will be live tunes and special performances to keep an ear out for!

3. Christmas Markets to Explore Around Hong Kong

It's that time of the year in Hong Kong when the air is filled with the jingle of bells and the aroma of holiday treats! The city's Christmas markets are back, transforming the streets into a winter wonderland that's nothing short of magical. Imagine twinkling lights, stalls brimming with unique local made or worldly branded items, and an array of mouthwatering seasonal delights that are sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.

Click here for our guide to the city’s most buzzing Christmas markets to explore with your loved ones for the ultimate array of festive goodies to nibble on, creative presents to swap, and more.

4. Shack Sounds - Jingle & Be Merry at Times Square in Causeway Bay

It's time to 'Jingle & Be Merry,' so grab your gang and head to Shake Shack where merry beats meet mouth-watering white truffle indulgence. Reserve your table and get ready for a mouthful of Angus beef with Emmental cheese, wedged into a potato bun and slathered with truffle sauce. Dive into 2 hours of unlimited crinkle-cut White Truffle Fries, dusted with parmesan and paired with a boozy Fifty/Fifty lemonade and iced tea concoction.

To jazz up your evening, the Red Cookies Music band will be serenading the venue, adding an extra layer of cheer to your experience.

5. A Tango Soirée with Fernando Rezk at Allure Music Salon in Tai Hang

Step into the enchanting world of Tango with one of the most esteemed bandoneonists in the world. It's an evening where the rhythm of Buenos Aires meets the charm of Hong Kong, as internationally acclaimed maestro, Fernando Rezk shares his mastery of Tango, steeped in the rich traditions from the golden age.

Be swept away to the romantic streets of times yore amidst the cosy 1920s-style stone cottage setting, as Rezk weaves a tapestry of enthralling melodies, nostalgic rhythms, and groundbreaking compositions. Let every beat, every note, resonate with the spirit of togetherness and celebration in an unforgettable Christmas Eve.

6. Christmas Candle with Mulled Wine Workshop at PMQ in SoHo

This workshop welcomes participants aged 13 and above, bringing them an evening of artistic exploration and relaxation. This two-hour session guides attendees through the process of crafting their own marbled or solid candle design that makes for the best DIY Christmas gift, enhancing it with a selection of beautiful crystals for a personal touch. The workshop emphasizes the use of eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, and each participant will receive a clear glass jar with a black lid to house their 220g candle.

While candles set and dry, attendees can unwind with a complimentary glass of mulled wine, with tea or juice available for those under 18. The workshop also provides an opportunity to meet new friends who share the holiday mood, and to explore a variety of Christmas gifts from other small business vendors.

7. Christmas Eve & Day Omakase at Nobu in Tsim Sha Tsui

This holiday season, dive into a gastronomic wonderland at Nobu Hong Kong with their exclusive 8-course Omakase dinner menu, set to make Christmas Eve and Christmas Day unforgettable. Renowned for its clever twist on traditional Japanese dishes with a dash of Peruvian zest, Nobu is where culinary artistry meets festive flair.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has curated a menu that’s like a culinary Santa’s sack – full of surprises with each course, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Expect a delightful parade of freshly made dishes and umami-packed flavours - all a testament to chef’s creative genius and the magic of fusion cuisine.

8. Mediterranean Joy and Christmas Splendor at MONMONO in Central

Follow the yellow glow of MONMONO and enjoy a Christmas feast with a twist. Mediterranean finesse meets festive cheer in a special festive menu available as both lunch and dinner sets. Indulge in the opulent Oyster Rockefeller, crowned with caviar, the heartwarming Turkey Roll, and the masterpiece that is the Bûche de Noël.

The setting for this festive feast? MONMONO Central features a venue lauded for its iF Design Award-winning ambiance, transformed into a Christmas haven to fit the occasion. Choose from their four-course lunch, or a six-course dinner, with the option for an additional wine pairing at HK$288.

9. 8-Course Seafood Christmas Dinner at Umami in Cyberport

If getting away from the hubbub and ocean views are top on your list for a Christmas meal, venture to the coastal Cyberport for a splendid 8-course Christmas dinner at Umami. Showcasing Japanese cuisine, their dishes are created with fresh seasonal ingredients, designed to enchant your palate.

The feast begins with the luxurious Teppanyaki Lobster, drenched in Sea Urchin Sauce, followed by the exquisite A5 Wagyu Cubes, enhanced by Fresh Wasabi Beef Gravy. Diners will also be treated to the French Cristal Blue Prawn, elegantly paired with a Japanese Plum Yuzu Sauce, a true testament to the harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western flavours. Sushi aficionados will delight in the Mini Negitoro Don, a compact yet flavour-packed creation. And as the curtain falls, the Yuzu Snowman dessert makes its grand entrance, ending the meal on a sweet note.

10. Holiday Lunch Set at Morton’s The Steakhouse in Tsim Sha Tsui

Prepare for a Holiday Lunch Set that's like a toy chest of gourmet goodies! Kick things off with starters like a rich Lobster Bisque and the Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail. Brace yourself for the main act, crossing between land and sea for the main dish options.

Choose between Center-Cut Filet Mignon or the Manhattan Cut Prime New York Strip if you’re a hardcore carnivore, or dive into either Broiled Pacific Salmon or Cold Water Lobster Tail if you're feeling fishy. And let's not forget the sideshow of Herb Roasted Potatoes and Baked Corn Soufflé for a decadent side to match. End on a high note with a Key Lime Pie or a festive Crème Brûlée.