Gastronomy and entertainment are intrinsically linked in different cultures, allowing food-focused events to evolve from simple culinary gatherings to one-of-a-kind collaborations that delight one’s senses. Guest shifts, musical festivals, and other foodie extravaganzas have emerged as the ultimate celebration for gourmands, music lovers, or even those simply looking for exciting new experiences.
To keep you busy in this hot and humid month, here are the most exciting events to check out in Hong Kong this August 2023.
Festivals
S2O Hong Kong Songkran Music Festival (Aug. 5)
Beat the summer heat in an exciting way with the first-ever hydro-music festival in Hong Kong and this summer's biggest event – S2O Hong Kong Songkran Music Festival. This event is packed to the gills with performances from DJs NGHTMRe, Alesso, Ben Nicky, DK Liu, and more, plus a 360-degree water-splashing experience. This ultimate summer celebration is one you can’t miss!
International Arts Carnival (July 14-Aug. 13) Calling all arts and culture enthusiasts! The International Arts Carnival invites you to a grand fiesta of creativity and cultural delights, uniting art aficionados and individuals from all walks of life around the world.
Expect dance performances and musical shows, as this year's carnival offers both onstage and online programs, where participants can immerse themselves in interactive sessions, enjoy live performances, and more.
Hungry Ghost Festival (Aug.16-Sept.14)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Deeply rooted in Chinese tradition, the Hungry Ghost Festival is held annually every seventh month of the Lunar calendar to pay respect to departed ancestors and restless spirits. This year’s festival falls on Aug. 30, although the month-long observation officially runs from Aug. 16 - Sept. 14.
This is the time of year when, according to traditional beliefs, the entrances to the underworld are temporarily open, allowing ghosts to pass through the living world. In order to pacify the hungry ghosts and appease the souls of the departed, families pay their respects by performing elaborate ceremonies loaded with food, incense, and prayers, while bamboo theatres are built around the city and filled with theatrical and colourful processions.
Wine Luxe Magazine Gin Fest 2023 (Aug. 25-26)
Welcome to the world of gin! Gin Festival is a captivating celebration that invites gin lovers and adventurous spirits alike. This event showcases a wide range of gin varieties, from classic juniper-based mixes to innovative and exotic botanical infusions. Under the guidance of skilled mixologists, visitors are in for a tasting treat while delving into the art of mixing gin cocktails. Secure your tickets now via LanKwaiFong.com.
Restaurant Week (July 27-Aug. 27)
Held annually in various cities, Restaurant Week is a gastronomic extravaganza that will tantalise your taste buds, featuring everything from gourmet delights to international delicacies prepared by acclaimed restaurants.
Hong Kong China International Tattoo Convention (Aug. 25-27)
The Hong Kong China International Tattoo Convention is making its grand return after a four-year hiatus to celebrate inked artistry and creativity. The three-day event, which will feature the much-anticipated Tattoo Competition, will be held at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Apart from the competition, tattoo enthusiasts and artists may gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in the tattoo world and shop for tattoo-related merchandise, artwork, and apparel from pop-up stores. The convention offers flexible pass options, including one-, two-, or three-day passes (HK$200-HK$300). Buy your tickets here.
Hall 5G, Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Center, 1 Expo Drive, Wanchai www.hktattoocon.com
Guest Shifts
Bacardi Legacy guest shift with Kero Song at Sam Fancy (Aug. 2)
Prepare to be delighted with exceptional libations and good company on an evening that promises to be a highlight on your summer's social calendar. Bacardi Legacy Cocktail Competition Taiwan champion (2020) and mixologist Kero Song will be taking over Sam Fancy for an exclusive guest shift.
Taking its inspiration from San Francisco's Chinatown, Sam Fancy in Lan Kwai Fong transports its patrons back in time to learn about the experiences of Asian immigrants to the United States.
Sam Fancy
The Plaza, 3/f & 4/f, 21 D'Aguilar Street, Central www.instagram.com/samfancylkf
Chef Collaborations
Chef Antonio Oviedo of Agora X Chef Franckelie Laloum of Louise at Louise (Aug. 3)
This Mediterranean cuisine-focused collaboration between two of the industry's finest chefs, chef Antonio Oviedo and chef Franckelie Laloum, is one you should not skip.
Chef Laloum from Louise is known for his innovative twists on traditional French fare and his ability to elevate classic French dishes to new heights. Chef Laloum's dishes at Louise have garnered great praise for their immaculate presentation and unparalleled flavour. Hailing from Agora, renowned chef Antonio Oviedo brings his expertise in Spanish cuisine to the table, known for its bold flavours and creative twists on contemporary fine dining dishes.
Louise
PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central www.louise.hk
Chef Hiroshi Shimada X Chef Tada Satoshi at Écriture (Aug. 5-31)
Two of Japan's finest chefs, chef Hiroshi Shimada and chef Tada Satoshi, will bring their best creations to a culinary rendezvous at the prestigious Écriture. The collaboration menu will showcase a delectable fusion of Japanese and French cuisines, where each chef's unique culinary flair will shine through.
Écriture boasts an elegant ambiance and unrivalled dining service, making it the perfect spot for this extraordinary event.
Écriture
26/F H Queen's, 80 Queen's Road Central, Central www.ecriture.squarespace.com
Chef Piergiorgio Siviero from Lazzaro at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel (Aug. 16-20)
Get ready to embark on a five-day culinary journey of Italian delights with unexpected twists as chef Piergiorgio Siviero, the culinary mastermind behind Lazzaro, takes centre stage at the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel. Apart from the hotel’s luxurious setting, diners will be treated to stunning harbour views and Italian flavours right in the heart of Hong Kong.
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel
No. 3 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon www.marcopolohotels.com
Hansik Goo x Onjium x Mingles Collaboration Dinner (Aug. 25-26)
Michelin-starred Korean restaurants Hansik Goo, Onjium, and Mingles combine their talents for a two-night-only collaboration dinner, offering an exceptional mix of Korean cuisine.
Just in time for the third anniversary of Hansik Goo, the collaboration menu will showcase each restaurant’s distinct menu, helmed by Onjium's Head Chef-Artisans Eunhee Cho and Sungbae Park, and Hansik Goo Chef-Founder and Mingles manager Mingoo Kang. These experts will harmoniously blend their culinary philosophies to create a unique and unforgettable dining experience.