Editorial | Hong Kong will approach Year of the Horse with optimism and resilience

Lunar New Year, with its much-loved traditions, colourful celebrations and hopes for the future, is one of the world’s most popular festivals. It is a special time, when families and friends gather together to enjoy festive food and events. Hong Kong will mark the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse with a variety of activities expected to draw up to 1.4 million visitors from mainland China. The city must be well prepared.

A spectacular fireworks display will light up the harbour on Wednesday. It will feature a galloping horse theme and is sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The new year parade is another highlight, with 12 floats and 31 performing groups. There will be much to see and do.

Hong Kong will approach the Lunar New Year with optimism, realism and resilience. Thoughts must be spared for the many residents affected by last year’s Tai Po fire as they begin to rebuild their lives.

Lunar New Year brings with it aspirations for prosperity. Hong Kong is looking in good shape as it embraces the Year of the Horse. Economic growth of 3.5 per cent in 2025 exceeded expectations. Exports surged and the city topped the table for initial public offerings. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has pledged to establish a policy framework to align the city’s development goals with the country’s 15th five-year plan. Maintaining economic growth and improving livelihoods is a common wish requiring effort from the government and community.