|
The Symphony of Lights show features decorative lights and lasers across the buildings in Victoria Harbor, Hong Kong. Photo by Krimuk2.0, CC BY-SA 4.0 |
Since January 2004, the free 10-minute show has been running daily at 8 p.m., featuring synchronized lights, lasers, and music across 43 buildings along Victoria Harbor.
It was considered by many as a symbol of the city’s vibrant energy, and recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2005 as the “largest permanent light and sound show.”
Over the years, the show saw a few changes, including a major revamp in 2017 with a new musical score recorded by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and a brief period of suspension in September this year.
Hong Kong Free Press said however that many tourists in recent years began to view the show as outdated and unimpressive, especially as other cities developed much grander and more modern skyline displays.
Besides, it is expensive to maintain.
Considering these, the Hong Kong Tourism Board decided to retire the attraction.
On social media, reactions to the decision have been mixed, with some users calling it the most overrated show in Hong Kong and others expressing sadness over losing a symbol of the city.
The final performance will include extra pyrotechnic and fireworks effects.
The government plans to replace the show with more flexible, seasonal light attractions at various locations.
An earlier plan to build a lighting installation at The Peak, one of Hong Kong’s most famous and visited tourist attractions, was called off after criticism from residents and trail users.
So authorities are switching its focus to major seasonal events, launching the annual WinterFest on the same day the light show ends and considering new light displays next year.