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Your guide to the 2025 Labour Day drone show in Wan Chai

Everything you need to know – dates, best spots, transport tips, and how to get the perfect view!

Jenny Leung
Written by
Jenny Leung
Deputy Editor, Hong Kong
Drone show
Photograph: Courtesy HKTB
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Hong Kong's drone shows are back in Wan Chai on May 1, celebrating Tin Hau Festival, Tam Kung Festival, and Cheung Chau Bun Festival with 1,500 drones lighting up the sky. If you’re planning to catch the sky-high spectacle, here’s your go-to guide for avoiding the crowds, snagging the best views, and making the most of the night.

When and Where: 2025 Wan Chai drone show

The show kicks off at 8pm on May 1 over Victoria Harbour near the Wan Chai Temporary Promenade. The performance will last around 12 minutes and is completely free to watch – but be sure to arrive early to find a prime spot as the place will fill up fast. 

Best spots to watch the drone show in Hong Kong

Since the drone show will be held at the Wan Chai harbourfront area, the best places to view the show will be the Wan Chai Temporary Promenade and HarbourChill. You can also try your luck further down by Wan Chai Ferry Pier or the Golden Bauhinia Square, but do note that certain areas will be closed off or have limited visibility affected by angles.

How to get there

There are several ways in which you can easily get to the Wan Chai harbourfront area:

  • MTR: Get off at the Exhibition Centre MTR station and take exit A2. Follow the signs and walk for a few minutes via the footbridge to get to the harbourfront.
  • Ferry: Opt for a more scenic route and take the Star Ferry from the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier.
  • Bus: Citybus routes 720 and 788 will get you nearby, but make sure to check Citybus’ website for any Labour Day adjustments.
Drone show
Photograph: Courtesy HKTB

What will the 2025 Labour Day drone show in Wan Chai feature?

This year’s theme celebrates the Tin Hau Festival, Tam Kung Festival, and Cheung Chau Bun Festival. A total of 1,500 drones will take to the night sky, forming dynamic patterns reflecting these iconic local festivals such as bun towers, mythical creatures, and other themed displays. The display will also feature newly composed music for a fresh auditory and visual experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will the weather affect the drone show?
A: There is a chance that the drone show may be rescheduled, delayed, or cancelled due to weather conditions. So keep an eye on the Hong Kong Tourism Board's website and the latest news.

Q: What time should you arrive to see the drone show?
A: It is advised to arrive around one to two hours earlier if you want to make sure you get front row seats. Crowds usually start to gather around 90 minutes or so before showtime.

Q: Can I see the drone show from the Kowloon side?
A: You can probably see the show happening from across the harbour if the skies are clear, but the view will be distant

Q: Will roads be closed if it gets too crowded?
A: The police will be on-site to monitor foot traffic and maintain crowd control; some roads and areas may be blocked from access.

Q: Can I watch from a boat or ferry?
A: Technically yes, but most public ferries won’t stop mid-harbour during the show. 

Q: Is it safe to bring pets, kids, or the elderly to watch the show?
A: Pets are allowed but not recommended, as large crowds and flashing lights may stress or cause harm to animals. Families are encouraged to bring their kids, but do leave bulky strollers at home. As for the elderly, it may not be the best idea to bring them to the crowded area, so try opting for other locations that may be less crowded.

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