What’s On HKG: LOUDER Connect and More! Nov. 6 – 12, 2023

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. LOUDER Connect Summit at Runnovation in Wan Chai

Join this groundbreaking event in the heart of Hong Kong and be part of the conversation driving change in female entrepreneurship. Exploring the funding challenges women entrepreneurs face, LOUDER Connect's signature event introduces the innovative RADICAL DEBATES™ platform established by LOUDER Connect founder Yamilette Cano, designed to spark discussions about inherent business models, gender-biased investment culture, and other factors influencing such challenges.

Attendees can engage in thought-provoking roundtable discussions, network with prominent entrepreneurs and investors, and receive exclusive mentoring at this one-of-a-kind summit. Welcoming speakers of all genders from varied industries and backgrounds, the LOUDER Connect summit promises to be one that offers inclusivity in entrepreneurship.

2. Runway Autumn/Winter 2023 at The Hive Studios in Kennedy Town

Get ready for the return of the Runway show in partnership with HK MODEL CAMP for the Autumn/Winter 2023 season! Held by Runway Asia, a nonprofit organization aiming to provide a vital platform for young designers and fashion startups to showcase their creations and gain exposure, the fashion show invites an audience of fashion lovers and influencers to propel emerging brands into the spotlight.

The Runway Autumn/Winter 2023 show caters to emerging designers, aspiring models, fashionistas, and the local creative community. Expect to be enthralled by the latest seasonal A/W2023 fashion trends, showcasing the creativity and talent of local designers. VIP admissions also offer perks like free-flow drinks and a specially curated goodie bag!

3. Hong Kong New World Harbour Race 2023

Dive into an extraordinarily aquatic New World Harbour Race 2023, with the theme "EMPOWER HAPPY WAVES FOR ALL." This exhilarating race promises a scale of excitement and activities that will leave you brimming with delight. The race is set to begin at the Public Pier, next to Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and conclude at Tsim Sha Tsui’s Avenue of Stars, offering a thrilling 1kilometre route along the picturesque Victoria Harbour.

What's even more exciting is the race's record-breaking participant quota of 4,000 swimmers this year. Although applications are now closed, simply cheering on and spectating at the New World Harbour Race 2023 is sure to get your heart pumping along with the contestants. For an insider’s guide on how to prepare for the New World Harbour Race, click here.

4. 2023 Gold Coast Motor Festival Hong Kong in Tsuen Wan

Hong Kong's premier motor extravaganza, the Gold Coast Motor Festival (GCMF), is back, and it's a special one as it marks its 30th anniversary. In collaboration with leading car and yacht manufacturers and passionate collectors, this year's event promises a grand display of automobiles and yachts from across the globe, from cherished classic and collector cars to some of the world's most sought-after super and hypercars.

Notably, the festival presents a rare opportunity for visitors to witness iconic 1990s vehicles, including the legendary McLaren F1, Mercedes CLK GTR, and Porsche 911 GT1, all displayed together for the first time in Hong Kong. This weekend-long spectacle has something for everyone, making it a perfect family outing as well. Throughout the weekend, the Hong Kong Gold Coast waterfront area is transformed into a series of car-inspired lifestyle and entertainment zones, with kid-friendly attractions, live music, and hands-on activities.

5. HKJFF at Cinemas Across Hong Kong

Prepare to immerse yourself in a cinematic cultural celebration at the Hong Kong Jewish Film Festival (HKJFF). Established in 2000, the HKJFF stands as Asia's premier platform for Jewish-themed films, uniting filmmakers, producers, critics, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. The HKJFF offers a captivating two-week journey through the diverse and rich world of global cinema.

The festival commences at MCL Cinema Cyberport with the remarkable cinematic achievement, "SHTTL," directed by Ady Walter. This film presents a love story and pays tribute to small-town life in a traditional village in pre-war Ukraine presented in one continuous shot. The screening will be followed by an in-person Q&A session with the director and sweet treats. Throughout the festival, you can anticipate a diverse selection of films, spanning historical love stories, thought-provoking documentaries, romcoms, thrillers, and more.

6. Young Professionals Drinks with BritCham at Barkada in Central

The BritCham Future Leaders Committee and Spanish Chamber Young Professionals Committee proudly present an exclusive networking event tailored for young professionals and emerging leaders. Amidst a casual setting with vibrant drinks, expect engaging conversations to expand your professional network, discover potential collaboration opportunities across diverse sectors, gain valuable insights from accomplished industry speakers, enhance your personal brand by connecting with influential figures, and become part of a supportive community that fosters growth and mentorship.

7. Life Drawing in HK at Art Roof Top Club in Happy Valley

Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner looking to explore the art of life drawing, these laidback sessions at Art Roof Top cater to all skill levels. Drawing inspiration from the Great Masters, the workshops aim to share the secrets behind capturing the intricacies of the human body and its proportions. Each 2-hour sessions include a 20-minute break for conversations, drinks, and hor d'oeuvres. We alternate between short and long poses based on the preferences of the class.

8. Miércoles Calientes: Chef Alex Fargas Vs. Chef Koen Vessies

Prepare for the return of La Paloma’s signature mid-week highlight, Hot Wednesdays. This time, offering an unforgettable Dutch-Spanish culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in a gastronomic experience as acclaimed Chef Koen Vessies and Chef Alex Fargas unveil their collaborative culinary artistry, from delectable tapas to mouthwatering desserts. The evening's pièce de résistance is a live-cooked Langoustine and Porcini Paella.

In honour of 12 years of crafting Spanish tapas, the night’s menu also features dishes such as "Fier Salade," "Paling," and the iconic "Bitterballen." Conclude your evening on a sweet note with the "Mon Chou" dessert.

9. Seafood, Beach, Hike! A Lamma Island Full Exploration with DayOne IRL

DayOne IRL invites all outdoor enthusiasts, local culture geeks, and foodies to embark on a journey to Lamma Island. The gathering begins with a ferry ride that takes you to the Lok Kwu Wan side of the gorgeous island, trailing off into a 13-kilometre hike spanning four hours, before all participants delight in a sumptuous seafood feast. Tailored as an experience that welcomes hikers of all capabilities, join the DayOne IRL community and meet some new people through sharing a fun activity and building memories together.

10. Translantau 2023

The TransLantau Race returns for its 11th year, offering a grueling test of endurance in Hong Kong's largest island. This iconic race features four categories: 25K, 50K, 100K, and a new ultra 140K distance, ensuring a challenge for runners of all levels.

The 100K race is the most sought-after, commencing at midnight in a small village and spanning a grueling 103km journey across scenic trails, including the Chi Ma Wan peninsula, Ngong Ping's Big Buddha, the charming Tai O village, and the Olympic Trail before finishing in Mui Wo.

Known for its competitiveness, the TransLantau Race showcases impressive speed and resilience. Registration spots are filled, but volunteering opportunities are still available.