Usher in the New Year with these world-famous celebrations held at the brightest and liveliest cities
The run-up to the New Year sees a number of cities transform into brightly lit holiday escapades. If you ever need to keep the Scrooge in you in-check, these destinations will inject some much-needed holiday cheer in no time at all, whether through mind-blowing firework displays, festive lights and installations, or even a shopping spree.
Hong Kong Winterfest
With a spectacular skyline and world-famous harbour, Hong Kong provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. The holiday season however takes that synergy several steps further with a number of unique holiday activities beginning 4th December. The Sparkling BVLGARI Roman Holiday in Statue Square will see the area lit-up with a jewellery-inspired ‘Serpenti’ light-art installation, which is brought to life by 50,000 LED lights. For unobstructed views of the iconic Victoria Harbour, lined on both sides with skyscrapers decorated with glittering Christmas lights, take a 15-minute ride on board the Observation Wheel. If you want a high-tech spin to your Hong Kong Xmas escape, just head over to the iconic Tsim Sha Tsui area where the Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show will be taking place.
London Tradition
The countdown to Christmas has already started at Oxford Street following the signature Christmas Lights Switch On Event graced by global pop star Kylie Minogue. The 56th annual event showcased what has become an iconic yearly event for Londoners, with the world famous shopping street gorgeously bathed in silver light gleaned from 445 luminous gold baubles. Over the several weeks leading up to Christmas, Oxford Street and the West End are set to take £2.3bn through the tills, with tourists around the globe set to get into the festive spirit for their Christmas shopping in style. The retailers that ply their trade along the three mile long street will also be offering customers exclusive offers during the holiday period.
Macao Magic
The Portuguese colony for over four centuries is now a major destination for high rollers in Asia. Known as the Vegas of the East, Macau however is not without its other attractions. The year-end period sees a number of activities that breathe new life into the city. Properties such as The Venetian and Galaxy recreate a magical atmosphere each Christmas season with decorative lights, performances and shows as well as art installations. In Senado Square, the tourist hotspot celebrates the season with festive light displays, decorated Christmas trees, as well as nativity scenes that inject a spiritual feel to the holidays.
Orchard Road Shopping
Singapore’s main shopping district is all decked out for the holidays with an impressive array of lights, bells and baubles for Christmas 2015. This year’s holiday concept is the brainchild of singer-composer Dick Lee and designer Yang De Rong who have transformed the world famous street to usher in the festive spirit. But it won’t just be decorative lights that are poised to lure visitors to Orchard; there will also be a number of activities and festive performances held throughout December. Buildings around the area will also get in on the act with decorations of their own as they vie for Best Dressed Building award. And for shoppers looking for the best deals on the street, rest assured the new OneOrchard app will be your perfect companion on Orchard Road.
Photo credit: Main photo
