Victoria Harbour Water Parade 2025 Guide: Dates, Attractions, Market, and Viewing Tips
From October 25 to November 1, 2025, Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong will host one of the most spectacular waterfront events of the year: the Victoria Harbour Water Parade. This week-long celebration transforms the harbour into a vibrant stage featuring giant floating sculptures, interactive markets, cultural performances, and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
Event Overview
Dates:
Giant Inflatable Sculptures Display: October 25 – November 1, 2025
Water Parade Day (Harbour Cruise): November 1, 2025
Water Parade Market and Cultural Activities: October 25 – November 1, 2025
Locations:
Giant Inflatable Sculptures: Waters off Tamar Park, Admiralty
Water Parade Market: Central & Western District Promenade, near Tamar Park
Parade Viewing Spots: Waterfront promenades, select piers, and rooftop venues
Key Attractions
Giant Floating Inflatable Sculptures
The main highlight of the Water Parade is the collection of massive floating sculptures, each over 20 meters in size. These iconic characters float majestically in Victoria Harbour, offering incredible photo opportunities and a striking visual experience:
Doraemon: The iconic blue robotic cat from the future
Elmo: The cheerful red character from Sesame Street
Grimace: The playful purple character from McDonald’s
Labubu: A collectible character from POP MART
Visitors can view the sculptures up close along the promenade in the days leading up to the parade. The combination of towering inflatables with the harbour skyline creates a surreal and memorable experience, especially during sunset and evening lighting.
Water Parade Market
The Water Parade Market runs alongside the inflatable displays and features:
Pop-Up Shops: Selling themed merchandise, collectibles, and souvenirs
Food and Beverage Stalls: Local Hong Kong delicacies, international street foods, and themed drinks
Interactive Games and Capsule Toys: Fun challenges for children and adults
Photo Zones: Immersive installations for memorable photos
Cultural Performances: Street performances, live music, and occasional flash mobs
The market is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours during weekends and public holidays. Visitors can spend several hours exploring the stalls, sampling local cuisine, and participating in interactive activities.
Water Parade Day – November 1
The highlight of the festival occurs on November 1, when the inflatable sculptures embark on a parade across Victoria Harbour.
The parade starts near Tamar Park, Admiralty
Moves along the harbour toward Kowloon and back to Hong Kong Island
Provides stunning views for spectators from promenades, ferries, and rooftop platforms
The parade combines visual spectacle, ambient music, and lighting effects, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.
Tickets and Admission
Water Parade Market:
Weekdays (October 25–31): Adult HK$70, Children (ages 4–11) HK$40
Weekends and Public Holiday (November 1): Adult HK$80, Children HK$40
Premium Viewing Tickets:
Exclusive ticketed areas on select rooftops and waterfront platforms provide the best views of the parade and photo opportunities.
Getting There
The parade and market are accessible via:
MTR: Admiralty Station (Exit A) is adjacent to Tamar Park
Ferries: Star Ferry services offer scenic views and alternative access to parade viewing spots
Walking and Cycling: Promenade areas are pedestrian-friendly, with bike paths for short rides
Arriving early is recommended, especially on parade day, to secure prime viewing spots.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive Early: Best viewing spots fill up quickly
Check Weather: October temperatures range from 22°C to 34°C; bring sunscreen, hats, or light jackets for evening breezes
Stay Hydrated: Carry water or purchase beverages at the market
Capture Memories: Bring a camera or smartphone for photos and videos
Plan Your Day: Cultural performances and market activities may have scheduled times
Accessibility: Waterfront promenades are mostly wheelchair-friendly, though some areas may have limited access during peak hours
Family-Friendly: Games, character interactions, and food stalls make the event suitable for all ages
Visitor Experience
The Victoria Harbour Water Parade is a multi-sensory event combining:
Visual Spectacle: Floating sculptures, vibrant lights, and reflections on the harbour
Auditory Experience: Ambient music, live performances, and sound effects
Interactive Elements: Games, workshops, and photo zones
Culinary Highlights: Local snacks, street food, and international treats
Cultural Exposure: Contemporary pop culture blended with Hong Kong’s iconic waterfront
Visitors are encouraged to spend the full day enjoying the market, exploring installations, and watching the parade. The event offers a unique combination of art, entertainment, and tourism.
Photography Tips
Sunset and Golden Hour: Ideal for capturing dramatic views with city skyline reflections
Ferries and Rooftops: Perfect for panoramic shots of the parade route
Promenade Close-Ups: Highlight the size and details of the inflatable sculptures
Summary
The Victoria Harbour Water Parade 2025 promises:
Giant floating sculptures of beloved characters
Interactive markets with themed food, shopping, and games
A unique parade across Victoria Harbour
Family-friendly entertainment suitable for all ages
Cultural and photographic experiences along the iconic waterfront
With careful planning, early arrival, and attention to schedules, this event offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists, making it a must-see attraction in Hong Kong this autumn.
