From Chinese festivals to major international sporting events, there's a lot happening in Hong Kong. Here are the highlights of traditional Chinese festivals-- scheduled according to the lunar calendar, so dates change slightly every year--and Hong Kong's biggest sporting and cultural events for the remainder of 2008.
Chinese New Year
A week or more of celebrations that usually start in mid-February, Chinese New Year is the biggest fete on the lunar calendar. Flower markets, a night parade and a massive fireworks display mark the festivities.
Spring Lantern Festival
A sort of Chinese New Year after-party, the whole of Hong Kong is on the guest list for this one. Flower markets, restaurants, homes, and parks are filled with colorful lanterns in traditional designs.
The 32nd Hong Kong International Film Festival
This year's film fest runs from March 17 to April 6. Every year, the festival showcases more than 250 films from about 50 countries and territories, and attracts over 260,000 movie buffs.
Dragon Boat Festival
A mid-June tradition, visitors should consider the highly competitive dragon boat races a must-see. Crews of 20-or-so paddlers row the long, sleek boats shaped like flying dragons to the beat of a heavy drum.
Equestrian Events of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games
Running Aug. 9 to 21, the Hong Kong Jockey Club will provide the venue for the 2008 Olympics and Paralympics events, which will be held at the Hong Kong Sports Institute and Penfold Park in Shatin, Beas River Country Club and part of the adjacent Hong Kong Golf Club.
