what to do in hong kong over christmas
Cover With Christmas fast approaching, we’ve complied a list of fun activities to do in Hong Kong over the festive period (Photo: Getty Images)

Make the most of your holiday season with our list of the best things to do in Hong Kong over Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner, and while overseas travel might not be feasible at the moment, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate and make your holidays extra memorable.

Read on to discover our curation of all the best things to do in Hong Kong over the festive period—from enjoying five-star staycations, to indulging in delicious food and exploring the great outdoors with loved ones, and many more. 

Read more: 10 Hong Kong Events You Can’t Miss in December 2021

1. Book a staycation

Tatler Asia
hong kong christmas staycation
Above Photo: Courtesy of The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

Just because international travel is off the table right now, doesn’t mean you couldn’t satisfy your wanderlust and enjoy a relaxing break in town. In Hong Kong, there's a plethora of five-star hotels and boutique hotels to choose from for a luxurious holiday experience, many of which come with stellar dining options and festive activities to make your stay special.

If you want to get out of the city and bask in nature, be sure to check out our roundups of the best luxury houseboats, Airbnb properties and glamping sites in Hong Kong for more staycation ideas.  

Read: Christmas 2021: The Best Staycations to Book in Hong Kong

2. Join a Christmas workshop

Tatler Asia
hong kong christmas workshops
Above Photo: Unsplash

Are you feeling crafty this holiday season? If so, take a look at our guide to the best Christmas workshops to join in Hong Kong this year. Whether you’re looking to make your own festive decorations such as door wreaths and scented candles, or experience the joy of crafting seasonal delicacies, a delightful time is guaranteed at any of the classes on the list.

Read: The Best Christmas Workshops to Try in Hong Kong This 2021

3. Admire Christmas displays

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hong kong christmas displays 2021
Above Photo: Courtesy of Landmark

To welcome the arrival of Christmas, Hong Kong’s luxury shopping malls are pulling out all the stops with beautiful festive displays to get you in the holiday spirit. If you want to see the lights but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best places to admire holiday installations in Hong Kong. Make sure you have your camera ready and snap some shots for your ‘gram. 

Read: The Best Christmas Displays to See in Hong Kong 2021

4. Go Christmas shopping

Tatler Asia
christmas shopping
Above Photo: Unsplash

Christmas is always an exciting time for shopping lovers. Often touted as a shopping paradise, Hong Kong has no shortage of department stores, street markets and boutiques to satisfy your cravings for a good shopping break.

And if you’re looking for some holiday-themed retail therapy and gift ideas for your loved ones, we’ve compiled a comprehensive gift guide that includes everything from luxury beauty gifts, gourmet hampers, to unique presents for him, kids, and more.

Read: Get Ahead on Your Holiday Shopping With the Tatler Christmas Gift Guide 2021

5. Visit Christmas markets

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christmas markets hong kong
Above Photo: Courtesy of K11 Musea

Aside from all the winter feastings and lavish parties, there are also plenty of holiday fairs to look forward to in town. Whether you are shopping for gifts, looking to indulge in seasonal treats or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, our guide to the best Christmas markets to visit in Hong Kong is not to be missed.

Read: The Best Christmas Markets in Hong Kong 2021

6. Indulge in a festive feast

Tatler Asia
christmas feast
Above Photo: Getty Images

No Christmas celebration would be complete without a sumptuous feast. If you're still not sure about your festive dining plans, check out our guide to the best restaurants to book for lunch and dinner in Hong Kong. You can also take a look at our roundup of the best Christmas afternoon teas to book this season.

A lot of stellar restaurants in Hong Kong are offering takeaway menus and delivery services for you to enjoy a five-star dining experience in the comfort of your own home, and if you’re looking for ideas on how to host a memorable Christmas party at home, take a cue from these Hong Kong top chefs.  

Of course, the holiday season is a time to indulge your sweet tooth. We’ve rounded up the best Christmas pastries and desserts to enjoy this year, which will not only make for crowd-pleasing party foods, but also heartwarming gifts for your friends and family.  

Read: Christmas 2021: Where to Eat in Hong Kong This Festive Season

7. Treat yourself to a luxury spa experience

Tatler Asia
best christmas spa packages hong kong
Above Photo: Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but let’s be honest, it can be a little overwhelming. As much as we enjoy the festivities, it’s also important to take time to pamper yourself and relax. With the party season fast approaching, why not treat yourself to a rejuvenating body massage or facial treatment?

From luxury hotel spas to beauty brand spas and massage parlours, we're spoilt for choices in Hong Kong for a well-deserved break. Alternatively, you can DIY a relaxing spa day at home. Check out our ultimate home spa guide and find the best beauty gadgets, facial rollers and sheet masks from our roundups to keep yourself looking and feeling good over the holidays.  

Read: The Best Luxury Spa Packages to Give and Receive This Christmas

8. Enjoy a movie marathon

Tatler Asia
christmas movies on netflix
Above Photo: Getty Images

If a movie marathon isn’t part of your Christmas traditions, there’s never been a better time to start. After all, what better way to relax on holiday than to stay in and enjoy some feel-good shows with your loved ones? From popular Korean movies to inspiring travel shows and thrilling survival-themed shows, there's something for everyone’s taste. If you need more holiday cheer, we’ve also listed the best Christmas movies and family-friendly flicks to watch this season. 

Read: The Best Christmas Movies On Netflix To Get You In The Holiday Spirit

9. Learn to cook a new dish

Tatler Asia
christmas activities - learn to cook
Above Photo: Getty Images

Besides ordering delicacies from Hong Kong’s most celebrated restaurants, why not also craft a few dishes yourself to experience the joy of tasting your own delicious creations? Read our favourite cookbooks or watch the best food shows on Netflix for some cooking inspiration. No matter you’re baking with the kids, prepping a feast to impress the guests or your special someone, cooking is a fun and essential skill to have.  

10. Host a virtual party to celebrate with friends near and far

Tatler Asia
christmas virtual party
Above Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images

Just because we’re practising social distancing doesn’t mean we can’t socialise and have a memorable Christmas with our far-flung loved ones. While we might not be able to toast together in person, there are still a couple of different ways to celebrate the holidays in virtual settings—you just have to be a little bit more creative. We're letting you know the apps to use and ideas on how to host a fun online gathering

Read: How To Keep in Touch in a Time of Social Distancing

11. Explore Hong Kong's neighbourhoods

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christmas activities - explore hong kong neighbourhoods

There’s never been a better time to rediscover the wonderful city that we call home. Make the most of your holidays and become a tourist in your own city by exploring Hong Kong’s most charming neighbourhoods. From vibrant districts such as Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui, to beautiful seaside towns including Tai O and Sai Kung, follow our guides to hunt for the best places to eat, drink and shop in Hong Kong

Don't miss: 10 Traditional Trades to Support in Hong Kong Before They Disappear

12. Enjoy the great outdoors

Tatler Asia
christmas activities - hiking
Above Photo: unsplash.com

Hong Kong might be best known for its towering skyscrapers, but let’s not forget the city is also brimming with natural gems—think green spaces, outlying islands, scenic hiking trails, and beaches.

If you’re longing to escape the hectic pace of city life, why not plan a day of outdoor adventure and get some fresh air over the holidays? Our city offers plenty of trails for all levels of hikers from beginner to advanced, and if you’re looking for places to run in Hong Kong, we have you covered with our list of the best running trails. Alternatively, make the most of the gorgeous weather by checking out these lesser-known sunset and picnic spots in Hong Kong for a peaceful day out.  

Read more: Hong Kong’s Best Dog-Friendly Parks and Beaches

This article was originally published on December 10, 2020 and was updated on December 14, 2021.

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