Christmas - 25th and 26th Dec
Are 25th and 26 th December normal days in Hong Kong? Are there usually any impacts or affects eg closures or larger/smaller crowd numbers on these days? Thank you!
In Hong Kong, both 25th December (Christmas Day) and 26th December (Boxing Day) are public holidays. They are observed widely, which means that normal business hours can be affected, and many locals are off work, leading to a mix of closures and larger crowds in certain areas.
Here’s what to expect:
- Shopping and Malls: Most major shopping malls and department stores remain open, often with extended hours and Christmas-themed events. Expect larger crowds, especially in popular shopping areas like Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay, and Central.
- Restaurants and Cafés: Many restaurants in tourist areas stay open, but some local or smaller eateries may close. Reservation is recommended for popular venues.
- Public Transport: MTR, buses, and ferries run on regular schedules, but some routes may be busier due to holiday traffic. Be prepared for crowding on peak sightseeing routes.
- Tourist Attractions: Places like Victoria Peak, Disneyland, Ocean Park, and Ngong Ping 360 remain open but can be busier than usual. Expect longer waiting times for rides or cable cars.
- Government Offices: Most government offices, including immigration and post offices, will be closed on both days.
Additional tips:
- Book accommodation, transport, and attractions in advance if possible, as Hong Kong attracts both local and international visitors during this period.
- Expect festive decorations, events, and special performances in major districts—great for sightseeing but can add to crowd density.
- If you plan to visit local markets or smaller shops, check in advance if they are open on these holidays.
In summary, while daily life continues and many tourist services operate, 25th and 26th December are busier than normal due to holiday crowds. Plan ahead for dining, sightseeing, and shopping to avoid disappointment.
More Hong Kong Travel Questions