The Intangible Cultural Heritage Office (ICHO) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department is celebrating a significant milestone this weekend, hosting the 10th Anniversary Fun Day@HK ICH Centre on June 13 and 14 at the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre, located at Sam Tung Uk Museum in Tsuen Wan. The two-day event, part of Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Month 2026, offers the public a rare and immersive opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and artistic expressions that define the city multicultural heritage.
Since its establishment a decade ago, the Hong Kong ICH Centre has served as a vital institution for preserving and promoting the territory living cultural heritage. The 10th anniversary celebration underscores the centre ongoing commitment to safeguarding the diverse intangible cultural practices of Hong Kong various ethnic communities. This year theme places a special emphasis on showcasing the vibrant cultures of different ethnic groups that call Hong Kong home, reflecting the city unique identity as a global metropolis where traditions converge and thrive.
The first day of the Fun Day featured an impressive lineup of performances that captivated audiences. Highlights included an inclusive Cantonese opera performance presented by non-ethnic Chinese children, demonstrating the cross-cultural appeal and adaptability of this traditional art form. The Hoi Luk Fung unicorn dance, a lively and auspicious folk performance, drew enthusiastic crowds, alongside young Chiu Chow musicians who showcased the enduring legacy of Teochew musical traditions. A Hakka Folk Song Duet added to the rich auditory tapestry, celebrating the heritage of Hong Kong Hakka communities.
Beyond the stage performances, the event offered a wide array of free interactive activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Workshop participants had the chance to try their hands at patterned band weaving and prosperity motif embroidery, learning techniques passed down through generations. A particularly popular feature was the traditional architecture preservation technique demonstration, led by a veteran historic building restoration master, which provided rare insight into the craftsmanship behind Hong Kong heritage structures. The Cantonese Literary Fun Hub offered a creative space for language and literary exploration, while visitors could craft their own diffuser stones featuring auspicious animal designs, create 10th anniversary magnets, and stamp postcards with the commemorative "Ten-Year Imprint."
Looking ahead to the second day of the festival, organisers have prepared an equally enticing programme. A standout offering is the "Village Chief Leads the Way: Deep Dive into Sam Tung Uk" tour, guided by Mr Chan Kam-hong, the village chief of Sam Tung Uk Village. This guided exploration will allow participants to experience the architectural ingenuity of Sam Tung Uk, a Hakka walled house with over 200 years of history, from the unique perspective of an indigenous resident. Additionally, a Teej performance featuring Nepali women in traditional costumes singing and dancing will celebrate the Nepali community cultural heritage, while an Indian festival activity will introduce the history and customs of celebrations such as Diwali, complete with traditional folk dances and chants. The programme also includes Chiu Chow Kung Fu tea demonstrations, shadow puppetry performances, and stilt house construction technique model demonstrations.
The 10th Anniversary Fun Day@HK ICH Centre stands as a testament to Hong Kong commitment to preserving its intangible cultural heritage while fostering cross-community understanding and appreciation. By bringing together diverse traditions under one roof, the event not only celebrates the past decade of conservation work but also looks forward to a future where Hong Kong unique cultural mosaic continues to enrich the lives of all its residents.
Sources: [HKSAR Government]
