The Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, which took place from October 23 to October 27, has emerged as a significant event despite the challenges posed by Typhoon Trami. This year's festival attracted approximately 155,000 visitors, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. Vendors reported remarkable revenue growth, with many experiencing double or even triple-digit increases in sales [332784f0][08fad760].
The festival showcased 300 stalls representing 35 countries, offering a diverse selection of local street food and Michelin-starred cuisine. Attendees enjoyed over 1,000 different beverages, with a notable emphasis on Chinese wines, which featured 29 wineries [08fad760]. The Hong Kong Tourism Board had estimated attendance would reach around 150,000, indicating strong interest in the event despite adverse weather conditions [332784f0].
Roger Law Chi-kit from the SkyCity Marriott Hotel noted that transactions nearly doubled on Saturday compared to Friday, reflecting the festival's resilience and appeal even in inclement weather. Bacchus Fine Wines also reported a 15% increase in business during this period [332784f0].
The festival's expanded offerings included a larger exhibition area dedicated to mainland Chinese wines, which doubled in size from the previous year. Grace Li Lai-yin, a key figure in the wine industry, emphasized the improved quality of Chinese wines and Hong Kong's role as a gateway for international wine markets [8776af77].
In addition to its culinary offerings, the event coincided with a government tax reduction on liquor, further enhancing its attractiveness to both vendors and visitors. The festival also invited over 8,000 cruise passengers, significantly boosting attendance and reinforcing Hong Kong's reputation as a culinary capital [08fad760].
Visitors described the festival as 'wonderful' and 'magical', drawing comparisons to the Napa Valley Festival and suggesting potential for future expansion. The event not only promotes local and international wines but also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and tourism, solidifying Hong Kong's status as a vibrant culinary destination [08fad760].