Hong Kong’s iconic Victoria Harbour will not host its usual New Year’s Eve fireworks this year. The Hong Kong Tourism Board announced on Wednesday (Dec 17) that countdown celebrations will instead take place at the pedestrian area on Chater Road in Central. The board said the event aims to “share positive energy, care, and blessings of peace with both locals and visitors, and to welcome a hopeful New Year together.” Further details and arrangements will be provided at a later date. Typically, Victoria Harbour serves as the backdrop for the city’s New Year fireworks. In 2024, there were four displays totaling 12 minutes, accompanied by live performances from Hong Kong and international artists. Although officials did not give a specific reason for canceling the fireworks this year, the announcement comes less than a month after the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Nov 26, which claimed 160 lives and left thousands of residents homeless.