Celebrating the 29th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region – The 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival Opening Ceremony and the 'Arts in Central and Western' Music Extravaganza: A Cultural Extravaganza of Dynamic Di

Description

The District Office of the Central and Western District, together with the Organising Committee of the 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival, the Central and Western District Council and the Central and Western District Youth Network, will hold the 'Celebrating the 29th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region – The 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival Opening Ceremony and the 'Arts in Central and Western' Music Extravaganza' at Pacific Place, Admiralty from 22 June to 5 July, 2026.

The Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival is one of the longest-running district events in the district, promoting various cultural arts in the community and fostering social cohesion and harmony through a diverse range of activities. The 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival was officially launched today (22 June) at Pacific Place, Admiralty. Officiating at the opening ceremony was Ms. Alice Lau, Commissioner for民政事務總署. Several members of the Legislative Council, Central and Western District Council members and community leaders also attended the ceremony to witness the beginning of this year's Cultural Arts Festival. A special lighting ceremony of the '29' themed light box was held to symbolise the celebration of the 29th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The opening ceremony featured captivating performances by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, the St. Paul's Co-educational College Pipe Band, the Achoir Singers of the King's College Old Boys' Association Primary School, and students from Yan Chai Hospital Ng Tsuen Ching Memorial Kindergarten/Child Care Centre, showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of students in the Central and Western District.

Urban Landscape, Artistic Fusion

As one of the earliest developed areas in Hong Kong, the Central and Western District boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. The event venue features multiple large-scale art installations, selectively rearranging elements from some of the district's landmark buildings, including the old and new architectural complexes of 'Tai Kwun', the classical terrace of the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, the rough-hewn granite blocks of the old mental hospital facade, the granite steps of Stone Slab Street, and the gas lamp on Duddell Street.

Additionally, the 12 'Meow Star' art installations set up earlier by the District Office of the Central and Western District through the District Minor Works programme are scattered across the event venue. These adorable and uniquely designed 'Meow Stars' offer visitors a fun opportunity to explore the venue and take memorable photos. The venue also incorporates the design elements of the district's distinctive manhole covers, allowing the public to appreciate the community's culture as they explore.

Youthful Vibrancy, Musical Euphoria

One of the key elements of the 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival is the participation of youth and students. The 'Arts in Central and Western' Music Extravaganza, held from 23 June to 4 July, provides a platform for them to showcase their talents. A total of 15 daytime and evening music shows will be presented by students from primary and secondary schools, as well as kindergartens in the district. The performances encompass singing, dancing, instrumental music, recitations and drama, displaying the vitality and talent of young people in the Central and Western District, while promoting artistic and cultural exchange and community interaction.

More exciting programmes of the 13th Central and Western District Cultural Arts Festival will be unveiled in the coming seasons, so stay tuned to the District Office of the Central and Western District's promotional materials for updates.

Content: Daytime/Evening Music Extravaganza, Central and Western District Landmark Architecture Photo Spots, 'Meow Star' Augmented Reality (AR) Photo Experience, Quiz with Prizes