On December 25, 2025, Christmas Eve, many shopping malls and streets in Hong Kong were filled with a strong Christmas atmosphere, attracting local residents and tourists to experience the local holiday spirit. The Epoch Times reporter conducted street interviews around Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui yesterday (December 24). Several tourists mentioned that the Christmas atmosphere in Hong Kong was much livelier compared to mainland China, while also expressing sorrow for the recent fire at the Hong Fuk Yuen in Tai Po. Local residents in Hong Kong also prayed for a peaceful year ahead, hoping that no more disasters would occur.
Along the waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui, many tourists and local residents gathered to take photos in front of Christmas decorations. A lady from Guangzhou specifically came to Hong Kong for a holiday trip. She mentioned that Hong Kong has a stronger festive atmosphere with plenty of decorations and events in the shopping malls. Although Guangzhou is crowded, the festive atmosphere is comparatively weaker. She admitted to not celebrating Christmas specifically in Guangzhou, where malls may offer Christmas dinners or gifts.
She expressed her fondness for Hong Kong’s local culture and often visits simply to enjoy her time, feeling like Hong Kong is a second home to her. She noted that with abundant online information nowadays, she can access Hong Kong media content without the need to bypass the Great Firewall, using foreign software and other means to obtain information. Regarding the recent fire at the Hong Fuk Yuen in Tai Po, she stated that she has been following the event since the day it happened and found the incident very heartbreaking as the deceased cannot return.
Another lady from Shenzhen, Miss Chen, visited Hong Kong for shopping and to enjoy the festive atmosphere. She also mentioned that the Christmas atmosphere in Hong Kong is notably livelier than in Shenzhen, with large crowds even on weekdays, surprising her. She believed that this year’s festive atmosphere in Hong Kong is even more vibrant than previous years, possibly due to more people being willing to go out and enjoy the festive scenes.
When asked about who or what they are thankful for, Miss Chen expressed that she is most thankful for herself. Having originated from the northern part of China, she has been working hard to achieve her current status and is satisfied with her life. Looking into 2026, she hopes for a salary increase and plans to pursue a postgraduate program in Hong Kong, with her current trip being a scouting mission.
Regarding the recent fire at Hong Fuk Yuen in Tai Po, Miss Chen mentioned that she had been following the news related to the incident. She felt sorrowful and reminded herself to pay attention to everyday safety, including turning off power sources when going out and evacuating promptly in case of a fire. She emphasized the importance of learning fire safety knowledge and prioritizing personal health and safety at all times.
A lady from Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, Miss Wu, admitted that she was not very clear on the celebration of Christmas, likening it to the New Year in foreign countries, primarily considering it as a holiday opportunity and bringing her child to play in Hong Kong during school vacations.
When asked about her Christmas wishes, she hoped for the good health and successful work of her friends and family around her. Despite an unfavorable current environment, she remains hopeful for the future.
Mr. Wang from Guangzhou believed that the festive atmosphere in Hong Kong is more vibrant compared to other regions in mainland China. His visit to Hong Kong this time was mainly to accompany his wife for shopping and entertainment, as well as to handle some matters, while also wanting to experience the unique festive atmosphere of Hong Kong.
He noted that although the cityscape of Hong Kong has not changed significantly, it is currently not as prosperous as before. In the past, every other year he visited, he could witness some changes, but that sensation no longer exists, hoping that Hong Kong can return to its prosperous state as before.
He admitted that overall consumption in China has significantly decreased in recent years, still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels, and hopes for gradual improvement in Hong Kong and China. Regarding the causes of weakened consumption, he pointed out that it is mainly related to the overall Chinese economy and the global economic environment, involving multiple factors.
Miss Wu, a resident of Hong Kong, expressed her gratitude towards her parents for raising her into adulthood as she celebrated the birth of Jesus. She acknowledged the immense effort, time, and money her parents spent on nurturing their children, and was thankful for her own hard work that led her to her current state. She expressed a hope for no more events like the Hong Fuk Yuen fire, recognizing the significant losses it brings to society and Hong Kong, leaving people heartbroken.
Talking about how she celebrates Christmas, she mentioned her participation in activities organized by the school during weekend holidays, including attending worship and related programs at the school church. When asked about her experience during worship, she touched upon the miracles of Jesus, his birth bringing salvation to humanity, his sacrifice, and the love of Jesus for all.
Another Hong Kong gentleman surnamed Zhao was asked about his expectations for Christmas. He shared his wish for everyone to have peace, emphasizing the importance of peace above all. When questioned about anything or anyone he is particularly thankful for during Christmas, he expressed gratitude for his efforts throughout the year.