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Hong Kong’s annual Wine and Dine Festival has drawn more than 160,000 people, with average daily visits up 30 per cent from last year, according to the organiser. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) said on Monday that visitors to the four-day event were also more willing to spend this year, following the conclusion of the festival a day earlier at the Central Harbourfront Event Space. “The average daily tasting token number increased by close to 40 per cent compared with last year,” it said. Each tasting token costs HK$25 (US$3.20) and is used for purchasing drinks and food at the event. “Merchants were also happy with the sales, some noting that business increased by 40 to 50 per cent from last year, and attributing the increase in participation and spending ambience to the extended event hours,” HKTB added. The event recorded a higher footfall than the board’s expected 150,000 visitors, benefiting from extended opening hours that lasted until midnight for the first time this year. The four-day event, themed “Remix – Best of All Worlds”, had about 300 booths and an expanded range of premium offerings, along with a focus on promoting Chinese wines. Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui said the “impressive growth in both attendance and spending” achieved by the festival had shown its popularity among locals and visitors. “The Wine and Dine Festival further solidifies Hong Kong’s status as a ‘city of gastronomy’, while also boosting the overall consumption atmosphere,” she said. “It allows residents and visitors to rediscover the vibrant charm of Hong Kong’s nightlife, fully leveraging the economic benefits of mega-events.” HKTB chairman Peter Lam Kin-ngok expressed gratitude to the government for its support. “The event’s success underscores Hong Kong’s unique appeal as a destination that brings together fine wines and cuisines from around the world,” Lam said, pledging that the board would continue to present more exciting events in the future.
