What’s On HKG: Green Power Hike 2024 and More! Jan. 9 to 15, 2024

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. Green Power Hike 2024 on Hong Kong Trail

A unique event blending physical challenge with environmental activism in Hong Kong’s stunning natural landscapes, this hike emphasizes the 'Leave-No-Trace' principle, urging participants to manage waste responsibly and partake in eco-friendly activities.

Hikers can choose from three routes: the demanding 50km from The Peak to Big Wave Bay, the intermediate 25km from Tai Tam Country Park to Big Wave Bay, or the more accessible 10km from Aberdeen Country Park to The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association Sandilands Centre. Each route showcases the diverse beauty of Hong Kong’s natural areas.

2. Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival Across Sai Kung Geoparks and Outlying Islands

Celebrating its third year, the Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival blends Sai Kung's stunning geological scenery with its vibrant cultural tapestry. This year, under the theme 'Joy Again, Stories,' the festival extends to High Island and Kau Sai Chau, inviting visitors to explore local culture, nature, and community spirit. It's a diverse celebration, offering art installations, craft workshops, live music, and more, appealing to art lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

As the festive season fills the air, the atmosphere buzzes with busking and performances too. Don't miss this blend of Sai Kung's natural beauty and artistic flair in one enchanting setting.

3. Eco Art Walk 2024 in Central and Western District

Experience the fusion of art and sustainability at Hong Kong's first "ECO ART WALK," a unique fundraising walkathon. This event offers a city stroll through the Central-Western District, featuring a curated exhibition of 10 local artists' works. It's a journey not only through art but also a commitment to animal rights and local food waste solutions. The walk culminates in an evening performance by local band, Kowloon K.

Event profits support vital causes including Hong Kong Dog Rescue, Feeding Hong Kong, and The Fringe Club. Participants will also receive a goodie bag worth HK$500, packed with items from eco-friendly partners, discounts to Furry Green and Retrovert, and pet accessories from Pet-a-Hood and Invisible Company Poo Bag!

4. Kickstart 2024: 4K Run to Begin the Year in West Kowloon

Jumpstart your New Year with an exhilarating 4KM run with fellow fitness fanatics. Beginning at the Sweaty Betty Elements Store, start with a leisurely 10:05 AM warm-up walk to West Kowloon Park, where you can enjoy the city's scenery. At 10:20 AM, gear up with a stretching session in the park, preparing for the run.

At 10:30 AM, the run commences! Experience the thrill of jogging along a scenic route, surrounded by fellow fitness enthusiasts, ending at the Sweaty Betty Store at K11 MUSEA. Here, each runner will be greeted with a rewarding goody bag filled with fitness essentials. The event celebrates health, community, and the new beginnings in your fitness journey in 2024.

5. Sip & Swap at The Women’s Lounge in Central

Revamp your wardrobe in style at 'Sip & Swap,' brought to you by WoHK and Eventstigated. This unique event, perfect for a 'new year, new you' makeover, is scheduled in four slots with 40 spots each, focusing on fashion and sustainability. Start by choosing up to 15 gently used garments and accessories, which will undergo a quality check during your chosen swap session. For each approved item, you'll receive a token, up to 15 in total.

Swap your tokens for an equal number of new-to-you pieces, transforming your wardrobe in an eco-friendly way. Your ticket also includes a drink to enjoy while you browse! Though please note that only women's clothing is accepted for the swap.

6. Creative Prose Writing Workshop with Xu Xi in Causeway Bay

Dive into the world of creative writing with our workshop featuring the renowned Hong Kong author, Xu Xi (許素細). Ideal for aspiring and experienced writers alike, this session offers an extraordinary chance to learn from an accomplished local English language author with a background teaching around the world.

Xu Xi, with 15 books and five anthologies to her name, brings invaluable experience. This workshop will guide you through starting your writing journey, discuss publishing literary prose, and include exercises for narrative development. Bring your enthusiasm, along with a laptop or notepad, and be ready to explore storytelling techniques!

7. Vik Munz: Surfaces at Ben Brown Fine Arts in Wong Chuk Hang

'SURFACES,' the fifth solo exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Vik Muniz, is a captivating showcase delving into the complexities of perception and artistic representation. Featuring Muniz's latest series Muniz reimagines iconic works by Cubist and 20th-century masters like Pablo Picasso and Paul Cézanne with a unique approach. Combining handcrafted painting and collage elements into striking photographic collages, his work challenges viewers to explore the relationship between physical objects and their artistic depictions, pushing the boundaries of traditional art.

Highlights include Muniz’s interpretations of Cézanne's 'Quarry at Bibémus' and Picasso's 'Guernica,' displaying his expertise in trompe l'oeil, offering an immersive exploration of visual language, bridging historical art movements with contemporary innovation.

8. Nintendo Pop-up Shop at K11 Art Mall in Tsim Sha Tsui

Dive into the enchanting worlds of Super Mario, Pikmin, Splatoon, The Legend of Zelda, and Animal Crossing. This pop-up, mirroring the famed Nintendo stores in Japan, is packed with exclusive merchandise, from trendy apparel to unique collectibles—a dream for fans of all ages.

There is also an exciting game zone where you can play Super Mario Bros.™ Wonder on the Nintendo Switch! Whether you're a hardcore gamer or new to Nintendo, this pop-up at K11 Art Mall promises an unforgettable, fun-filled adventure.

9. Bryan Bentley - Black Sea Captain at BaseHall 2 in Central

A star on Hong Kong's comedy scene since 2018, Bryan is celebrated for his electric energy and unique humour. He's mastered his craft in the city's comedy hotspots, evolving from 'Boujie Ass N****' to 'Not the Bouncer,' and now the highly anticipated 'Black Sea Captain.'

Bryan's comedy is a brilliant mix of introspection and wild observations, reflecting his distinctive life experiences as a foreigner in the city. Expect a show bursting with laughter, wit, and unforgettable moments. Don't miss this extraordinary night with the 'Black Sea Captain.'

10. Kunstler Wine Dinner at HEIMAT by Peter Find in Central

Discover the rich heritage of German cuisine and winemaking, celebrating a German sense of belonging with a six-course feast paired with outstanding wines from Weingut Kunstler, Rheingau. Notably, the winery's Holle Riesling GG was ranked No.2 in James Suckling's TOP 100 in 2022, and the Marcobrunn Auslese 2021 scored a perfect 100.

Begin your evening with a welcoming Künstler Riesling, setting the tone for a culinary journey that blends traditional German flavors with modern flair. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a Kunstler wine, showcasing the winery's excellence.