We’re calling it. It’s officially summer in Hong Kong and you know what that means? Junk boat parties, beach trips, and more sun-kissed activities. But beyond basking in the fun of outdoor events, there are plenty of other things to do in Hong Kong that offer refuge from the summer heat. So, whether you want to take in the glories of Hong Kong summer outdoors or in the comfort of an air-conditioned venue, these events are a must. Keep reading to find out the best Hong Kong events and unmissable things to do in July from our list below.
Many of us have divided opinions on Hong Kong summer. But regardless of whether you’re going for a quick getaway or staying in, you surely can’t miss all these amazing events. Plus, they even run beyond summer so there’s no excuse not to experience what they have to offer. For the artsy and creative experiences, head over to incredible exhibitions like I. M. Pei’s first full-scale introspective or the AI-powered display at Airside with Hong Kong Ballet. There will also be various food-related events such as the fun and tasteful Boodle Fight at Brut or the DJ night at Ichu. Annual summer events such as the Hong Kong Book Fair and Ani-Com and Games will also make splashing returns. Curious to learn more? See our top picks of the best Hong Kong events and things to do this July.
Hong Kong events: The best things to do in July 2024
1. M. Pei: Life Is Architecture
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M+ Museum will present the first full-scale retrospective of Chinese-American architect Leoh Ming Pei, also known as I. M. Pei. The I. M. Pei: Life Is Architecture exhibition will take a close look at Pei’s life and work through six areas of focus. The architect’s high-profile projects span over seven decades, spearheading landmarks such as the Grand Louvre in Paris, the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong, and the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. The exhibition will also feature newly commissioned photographs of eleven of Pei’s projects by seven photographers, taken during the pandemic. So, don’t miss the chance to get to know one of the most influential architects of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Where: M+, 39 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong
When: June 29, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Website: mplus.org.hk
2. Hong Kong Ballet x Airside Oz Life Journey
Airside mall will partner with Hong Kong Ballet for the first time to present an immersive arts-tech ballet experience that marries MR, VR, and neon-lights installation. The collaboration comes as the Hong Kong Ballet celebrates its 45th anniversary. Visitors will be able to see the latest Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR) gear at Airside’s Gate33 Gallery. Follow the virtual yellow brick road that will lead to a magical journey featuring new excerpts from artistic director Septime Webre. Neon artist Jive Lau will also present neon light artworks rich in local elements while anime-style avatars Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and the Wicked Witch of the West will be brought to life.
When: July 5 to September 4
Where: Gate33 Gallery, Airside
Website: events.nftouch.com.hk
3. RiseUp! Photo Exhibition
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Students from KELY Support Group’s RiseUp programme will showcase their photography with the theme of Hopes and Dreams. There will be over 40 photos taken by 20 students from Delia Memorial School (Broadway). Let these photographs inspire you about your own hopes and dreams. Plus, get the chance to learn more about the stories of these students through their photos.
Where: The Fringe Gallery (Anita Chan Lai-Ling Gallery), 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong
When: July 6 at 3 pm to 7 pm and July 7 at 10 am to 7 pm
Website: kely.org
4. Ichu x Not a Disco DJ Night
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Who doesn’t love a summer party? Not a Disco will join forces with Ichu to bring an energising event on July 6. Get ready to jam to the pulsating tunes of talented DJs at one of the best rooftop venues in Central. Jam to the soulful disco house sounds courtesy of DJ Passion and Paul Michael, Cookie and Jonathan Chan, and Bad Bambino and Benny Cee.
Where: 3/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
When: July 6 at 3 pm to 12 am
Website: zicket.co
5. Brut! x Vivant Filipino Boodle Fight Dinner
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Brut chef CJ Jalandoni and Vivant’s chef Jeston Chua will partner up to present a one-night-only Boodle Fight. A truly one-of-a-kind dining experience, the feast will be served entirely on banana leaves. It will be an elevated take on the sharing-style Filipino meal traditionally enjoyed by army cadets. Available for parties of two to eight, diners can enjoy three starter dishes: Adobo Wontons with Adobo Dip, Pork Skewers, and Roasted Vegetable Rolls. Then, dig into the main dishes along with the flavourful Garlic Rice. Cleanse the palate with a serving of Bibiking, a traditional Filipino dessert. A selection of magnums of grower champagne will be available for the occasion.
When: July 10
Where: Shop C, 1 Second Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
Website: sevenrooms.com/reservations/brutsaiyingpun
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6. 100% Doraemon and Friends Tour
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Come join Doraemon and friends on their tour this July. It’s even more special as Hong Kong is the first stop in the 100% Doraemon & Friends tour. The exhibition and pop-up store will celebrate the character and its beloved legacy. At the same time, it will also commemorate the 90th birthday of Doraemon’s creator, Fujiko F. Fujio. Visitors will be able to explore the free outdoor zone alongside the promenade. Admire the 12-metre-tall inflatable Doraemon and take memorable photos with the 34 sculptures across the area. Then, dive into the exhibition hall where artworks, scenes, and sculptures highlight the characters’ iconic art style. There will also be exclusive collectibles available during the tour including venue-only merchandise.
When: July 13 to August 18
Where: Avenue of Stars
Website: doraemon100.com
7. Discovery Bay Splashtopia
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Gear up for summer fun at Discover Bay’s Splashtopia event in collaboration with Kidztopia. The two will bring Hongkongers the largest inflatable water park on Tai Pak Beach. So, gather your friends, put on your best swimwear, and make the best summer memories. There will be nine giant inflatable trampoline play areas throughout the venue. The most eye-catching one will be the Bell’s Dolphin Dive where partygoers can splash down the 10-metre-tall slide. Children, families, and friends are welcome to join.
When: July 13 to September 1
Where: Tai Pak Beach, Discovery Bay
Website: klook.com
8. Hong Kong Book Fair
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The city’s largest event on books will officially return this summer. Running from July 17 to 23, the Hong Kong Book Fair will stage more than 600 cultural events on-site and off-site including writers’ seminars, book launches, and exhibitions. One of the highlights this year is the Art Gallery which will exhibit the works of renowned writers such as Erica Li, Norris Wong, and Law Kar. Local directors such as Wong Kar-wai, Ann Hui, and Stanley Kwan will also have their works on display in special sections. Other authors that will attend include British scholar Christopher Cowell, Korean writer Mirinae Lee, and Thai author Narisapongse Rakwattananont.
When: July 17 to 23
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Website: hkbookfair.hktdc.com
9. Unheard Sound and Music Festival 2024: Spectrum of Sound
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Eaton HK will present the third edition of the Unheard Sound and Music Festival. This unique festival will feature a series of activities to shed light on different perspectives when it comes to sound. In addition, it will introduce new music and highlight the work of artists working on avant-garde and out-of-this-world projects. This year’s edition will further dive into our daily relationship with sound through devices, the role of electronics in modern music, and more. Of course, there will be live performances and screenings of music documentaries on top of panels about the experimental music scene in China as well as the sound of the diaspora. Don’t miss the listening and storytelling session by members of the deaf community and a DIY radio installation by neurodivergent artists.
When: July 18 to 28
Where: Eaton HK, 380 Nathan Road, Jordan, Hong Kong
Website: eatonworkshop.com
10. Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong
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Geeks, comic fans, and anime lovers, your favourite event is here. The annual Ani-Com and Games convention will take place this July. The largest gathering of anime fans and gamers, the event will have plenty of anime, comics, and video game displays. Attendees should also put on their best outfits for the yearly cosplay contest. What a fun summer event it will be hunting for rare and limited-edition collectibles and other merchandise.
When: July 26 to 30
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Website: ani-com.hk
11. Mamma Mia
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Mamma Mia, here we go again. The popular West End musical will make a comeback to Hong Kong after five years this July. The feel-good classic will run from July 26 to August 25 at the Lyric Theatre. It’s time to experience a musical extravaganza with popular songs such as ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Money, Money, Money’. So, whether you’re familiar or not with the musical, it will be an event that you can’t resist seeing.
When: July 26 to August 25
Where: Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts
Website: cityline.com
Remember to bookmark this list of Hong Kong events this July so you don’t miss out!
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong
