Picture perfect holidays at the Hong Kong WinterFest 2012

Christmas may be over, but it's still the season for bright lights and dazzling displays. As Pinoys know, no celebration is complete without taking pictures. This year, photo opportunities are all over Hong Kong as they celebrate WinterFest 2012, the annual festival for Christmas and New Year.

 

"Filipinos love to share photos so this time, take time to explore the city with your family or friends for a merry round of picture-taking in any of these activities at key locations in Hong Kong," the Hong Kong Tourism Board said in a press release. Whether you're in search of the perfect backdrop for your new cover photo, or a splendid display to share on Instagram, the city is all dressed up and ready for your photoshoot.  

Lights and love

 

Glittering skyscrapers surround Statue Square, where you can make a wish on the Bridge of True Love. Photos will look extra magical as the entire square is bathed in Tiffany blue for "A Brilliant Tiffany Holiday." Step into the Christmas wonderland and take fairytale pictures with the 18-meter Christmas tree and grand 24-seat carousel. On December 31, there will be musical performances by the Tiffany Tree from 4 to 4:45 p.m. and from 8 to 8:45 p.m.

 

For a romantic night under the stars, head to the sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck. Relax and sip a refreshing drink at the sky100 Lounge while enjoying a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of Asia’s World City. "It’s a view that Christmas holidays are made for," HKTB said.  

 

At The Peak, it's the season of love until January 2. Love-themed Christmas decorations adorn Hong Kong's highest viewing terrace, where couples can make a wish together at the giant Christmas heart-shaped stand. Those who don't have their loved ones with them can send postcards with a special Peak seal, and have the card mailed on their preferred date in 2013. 

 

Outdoor adventures

 

Birdwatchers are in for a special gift this holiday season at the Hong Kong Wetland Park, a major winter stopover point for a huge array of migrating waterfowl. "Wetland Park is the best place to have a good look at over 230 species that call on Asia’s World City this time of the year," HKTB said. Visitors may go on guided tours and attend photo exhibits and workshops at the park’s annual Bird Watching Festival until March 18, 2013.  

 

For more of the great outdoors, visit Ngong Ping Village on Lantau Island for a unique alfresco Christmas experience. Inspired by the island’s indigenous fishing culture, Ngong Ping 360 is from December 15 to January 1. "Here, amidst the surrounding stunning mountaintop scenery enjoy live music, such as rhythmic a capella humming, instrumental performances and choirs. Don’t forget to take a memorable photo of your loved ones!" HKTB said. 

 

Fun for the whole family

 

Fill your day with Christmas Popping Fun at Noah’s Ark Hong Kong, where you can indulge in 30 different flavors of popcorn. You can also make your beloved a sweet gingerbread treasure and catch festive dance performances and Christmas carols until January 1.  

 

At Hong Kong Disneyland, stroll down the festively decorated and snowy Main Street, USA-Christmas Town and see the dazzling Christmas Illumination procession until January 1. Guests can also dance til they drop with Disney friends at Santa Mickey’s Toy-riffic Street Party, and visit the brand new Grizzly Gulch and Toy Story Land. 

 

At Ocean Park Hong Kong, go on a Polar Adventure or a crazy Thrill Mountain ride. Travel back in time to old Hong Kong, and experience the dazzling Aqua City. Go on an adventure at Rise of the Guardians, and be sure to share in the seasonal joy with many Santas until January 1.

 

2013 countdown

 

The WinterFest culminates with the Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations on December 31. For the first time, fireworks are set to be launched from both sea and land, making this year's countdown the biggest in the event’s history. 

 

The countdown features an eight-minute display of pyrotechnics, beginning on the harbor and moving landward in three layers culminating in a display from various buildings in Wan Chai with the iconic harbor-front Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center as the focal point, the release said.

 

The HKTB gave some suggestions for good, admission-free spots where you can watch the show: The Hong Kong Cultural Center Piazza, the promenade from the Avenue of Stars to the Hong Kong Cultural Center, the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and the area near the Central piers. "So, mark your spot today in time for this big event on December 31 at midnight," HKTB said. —Carmela G. Lapeña/KG, GMA News