Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025: A Celebration of “More Than Joy”

Humour has long defined Hong Kong’s pop culture, leaving its mark on films, music, and literature. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department presents the 3rd edition of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, themed More Than Joy, celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of “Joy and Humour.” Opening in Apr 2025, the festival explores how humour shapes Hong Kong’s pop culture, creating emotional connections that resonate with diverse audiences. From comedy films and music to stand-up performances and exhibitions, the festival promises a joyous journey through the laughter-filled heart of Hong Kong’s creative spirit.

The festival offers a variety of events, showcasing the creativity and vitality of Hong Kong’s pop culture while inviting audiences to reflect on the role of humour in their lives. The opening week, featuring four highlight programmes at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, is not to be missed:

Opening Programme: “Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet”

Kicking off the festival on 4 Apr at the Grand Theatre of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, this spectacular event will feature renowned music producer Ng Cheuk Yin, who will rearrange beloved songs from classic comedy films. The performance will bring together young artists such as pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey, creating a musical experience that bridges generations and styles. Following the concert, audience will enjoy a screening of The Banquet (1991), a comedic masterpiece directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung. The film features iconic actors like Eric Tsang and Dodo Cheng, with cameos from Hong Kong’s biggest stars of the era.

Opening programmme featuring live music performance with film screening

Outdoor Music Carnival: ImagineLand

On 5 and 6 Apr, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, and Salisbury Garden of Avenue of Stars will come alive with ImagineLand, a lively outdoor event celebrating the essence of Hong Kong’s pop culture. Featuring three distinct stages—Forest, Grove, and Seed—the carnival will showcase a rich lineup of local and international musicians, including Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, and Sunwoojunga (Korea). From pop and jazz to electronic and rap, the event promises a boundary-crossing musical experience. Additionally, the Comics Fun Experience Gallery will invite visitors to interact with Hong Kong iconic comic characters, while the Funarts Corner offers interactive workshops blending art, music, and crafts. As night falls, enjoy Movie Under the Stars, featuring screenings of local comedies such as Table For Six (2022) and Forbidden City Cop (1996).

Signature outdoor music carnival at Hong Kong Culture Centre with spectacular Victoria Harbour as backdrop

Film Screening Series: “Laughter Double Bill”

Running from 4 Apr – 11 May at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Hong Kong Film Archive, this series celebrates the unique “Hong Kong-style humour” with 16 iconic comedies starring legends like Stephen Chow, Jackie Chan, and the Hui Brothers. Themed double bills offer a curated experience, reflecting the evolution of comedy in Hong Kong cinema.  As a prelude to the screenings, a mini-exhibition from 26 Mar – 8 Apr at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, will showcase classic images from Hong Kong comedies.

A selection of 16 comedies spanning from the 1940s to the new millennium

Finale Attraction

The festival will run until July 2025. As an exciting attraction of the closing month, a specially curated pop concert, Music & Laughs, will take place on 19–20 July at the Grand Theatre of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Veteran producer Edward Chan will collaborate with renowned pop singers, a live band, and an orchestra to take the audience on a captivating musical journey exploring the question – What is Comedy? Which artists will join this feast? Stay tuned as the mystery unfolds!

Other Exhibitions You May Be Interested In

Two major exhibitions will celebrate Hong Kong’s comedic legacy. Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics (21 May 2025–9 Mar 2026, Hong Kong Heritage Museum) will display manuscripts, comics, and multimedia installations, exploring iconic characters. Meanwhile, Legends of Hong Kong Film Comedies, 1980s and 1990s (30 May–19 Oct 2025, Hong Kong Film Archive) will highlight classic comedies with film clips, interviews, and a recreated 1980s karaoke room. Both promise immersive and nostalgic experiences!

A Festival of Connection and Joy

The Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025 is more than a celebration of laughter—it’s an invitation to explore the cultural richness and creativity that define Hong Kong.  Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, the festival promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s creative spirit.  Mark your calendars and join us for More Than Joy, where laughter bridges cultures, connects communities, and celebrates the universal power of humour. For details, please visit www.pcf.gov.hk/en.