Hong Kong 2026-27 budget: ‘Symphony of Lights’ to go dark under tourism revamp
South China Morning Post
by Wynna Wong,William Yiu,Harvey KongFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hong Kong is set to bid farewell to its iconic "Symphony of Lights," a 20-year-old spectacle that has illuminated the city’s skyline, as part of an extensive revamp aimed at enhancing its tourism offerings. The popular nightly display, which has been a staple attraction for both locals and international visitors, will be replaced by immersive projections across various districts. This change is part of a broader push to modernize Hong Kong's tourist attractions and align them with global trends in digital entertainment.
The decision to retire the "Symphony of Lights" comes as part of Finance Chief Paul Chan Mo-po’s latest budget, which includes several new tourism initiatives. These include efforts to position Hong Kong as a destination for educational study tours and a HK$200 million (US$25.6 million) fund to revitalize rural areas and promote sustainable tourism. The move reflects the government's commitment to diversifying and upgrading the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape, ensuring it remains competitive in the global tourism market.
Replacing the traditional light show with immersive projections is seen as a forward-thinking step to attract younger, tech-savvy travelers and offer a more dynamic experience. This shift aligns with broader trends in digital innovation and experiential travel, which are increasingly driving visitor preferences worldwide. By embracing cutting-edge technology and creative storytelling, Hong Kong aims to create a more engaging and memorable tourism ecosystem that resonates with global audiences.
The revamp also underscores the importance of adapting iconic landmarks to meet contemporary expectations while preserving the city’s unique charm. As Hong Kong continues to evolve as a travel destination, these changes signal its commitment to innovation and sustainability in tourism, ensuring its enduring appeal to both local and international travelers.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/26/2026