Hong Kong, a country steeped in cultural traditions that are reflected in many of the yearly festivals they celebrate there. Many of the festivals have roots in the religion and faith of the people. The celebrations are anything but serious and solemn. Most of the festivals are filled with fun, food, dancing and lots of noise. Though the actual dates can vary from year to year most festivals fall within a certain month each year.
*Chinese New Year always falls in February. Celebrated over a 3-8 day time period, this is one of the biggest celebrations of the year. New clothes are worn during this period, to symbolize the New Year. Special foods are made especially for the New Year, including various types of Chinese dumplings. To bring the celebration to an end a spectacular fireworks display is set off over Victoria Harbor.
*The Dragon Boat Festival held in June is one of the most loved and exciting festivals. Drawing competitors from around the world, it involves a fierce competition of racing with the eight man dragon boats. Thousands come every year, just to see the races.
*The Mid-Autumn Festival or Moon Festival takes place in September. This festival began as a celebration of the Chinese gaining freedom from their Mongolian masters. This is a time for family to come together as one. Mooncakes are a traditional food given during this festival, since it falls during the lunar. Lanterns are also an important part of the celebration. They can be seen shining all over the hills and beaches when darkness falls across the country.
These are just a few of the bigger festivals. The people of Hong Kong love to celebrate, there are many more.