Simple Gifts of Joy

EVENT DESCRIPTION

What’s the perfect gift for the holiday season? Often, it’s the intangible things that have the most lasting impression – those spontaneous smiles, those warm embraces, those moments shared together.

Christmas is that special time of year where these little things take on an extra special meaning.

It’s this spirit that Tai Kwun and The Hong Kong Jockey Club (“HKJC”) are channelling this Christmas with Simple Gifts of Joy.

HKJC presents Simple Gifts of Joy
Simple Gifts of Joy is all about sharing in the joyous experiences that bring us together. It’s a month- long celebration of joy, giving and togetherness; where we can come together with family and friends, revel in the spirit of the season, and savour those moments that truly matter. The first of a series of annual festive celebrations presented by HKJC together with Tai Kwun, Simple Gifts of Joy aims to inspire the community through arts and culture and welcome new vibrancy and energy back to the city.

Starting from 1 December, Tai Kwun will transform into a glorious festive destination full of colour, music and fun, where joyous performances will come alive and fill the air with celebration. Of course, there will be a Christmas tree – a grand, 12-metre-tall beauty that will be the centrepiece of Tai Kwun’s Parade Ground, accompanied every evening by a dazzling light show. And during the month, there will be an array of circus performances, Christmas music, delightful surprises and hidden treats that will create a unique festive atmosphere right across the complex.

Founded and funded by HKJC, Tai Kwun has become Hong Kong’s beating cultural heart since opening in 2018 – a destination where heritage, world-class arts and culture, and rich stories all come together in a unique, joyous landmark for Hong Kong. And now, it is set to become the home of a whole new Christmas tradition for our city.

Tree of Togetherness
At the heart of Simple Gifts of Joy is a magical scene that will see Parade Ground transformed in a sea of festive light, colour and music – a beautiful backdrop where families and friends can celebrate together.
The Simple Gifts of Joy journey begins on Parade Ground: at the centre is the soaring, beautifully adorned Christmas tree that will become a festive Hong Kong icon. Every evening, the tree will glow with a magical light show, creating a special atmosphere across the space. The historic buildings surrounding Parade Ground will also come alive with a symphony of dramatic lighting.

The Gift of Music
The magic begins with an opening concert and lighting ceremony on 1 December, where officiating guests will switch on the enchanted Christmas scenes together with the visitors. It’s the perfect opportunity to witness the stunning Christmas tree lit up, glittering and sparkling, and to kick off the celebration of the joyful season with one another. From 1 to 4 December, the newly founded Hong Kong choir NOĒMA will perform four evenings of exquisite choral music under the baton of Sanders Lau.

The Merriest of Markets and Meals
Over 30 outlets at Tai Kwun have already unloaded Santa’s sleigh and are ready to spread Christmas cheer with a mix of festive flavours, seasonal goodies, art presentations and hands-on craft experiences. The turkey won’t be the only thing that’s stuffed this season, as Executive Chef Junno Li of The Chinese Library presents a limited eight-course dinner to satisfy your Christmas cravings. Nibble on the city’s best Thai tidings and treats at Aaharn, while enjoying the view of Tai Kwun’s extraordinary Christmas tree over limited-edition dishes. One doesn’t need to travel to the North Pole to spot a reindeer as Stecco Natura presents a very special Reindeer Popsicle. PAZTA is rolling out toothsome plates and new traditions with their exquisite menu, while Dragonfly is serving up warm glasses of mulled wine spiked with spices and fruity sweetness.

Yulephiles can discover seasonal treasures from Tai Kwun’s incredible range of shops. If you are dreaming of a woodsy season, look no further than Ora-Ora: the art gallery will be showcasing paintings inspired by 18th century Flemish tapestries, redolent of the heroic deeds of the forest. For those looking for family-friendly activities, PAP Studio will host a stained glass photo frame workshop, giving everyone a chance to hone their skills from copper foil wrapping and colour dyeing. Meanwhile, Touch Ceramics is teaching everyone about Kwon-glazed porcelain painting with their wondrous Christmas workshop.

Going on a shopping spree? Be rewarded upon spending HK$1,000 at TASCHEN Store and receive a complimentary handcrafted bookmark designed by renowned local designer ZOEE. Finally, warm up with tea-riffic gift sets from LockCha Tea Shop, as the teahouse is brewing up six floral teas to keep you cosy all season long.

Your festive spirit is just waiting to be unwrapped! Find yourself inspired by Tai Kwun’s charming shops and restaurants as you stroll along Hong Kong’s winter wonderland.