Sassy Mama Hong Kong's What's On Guide - 1

What’s New In The 852: 6 Hot Picks For Sassy Families This August

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:00:26 +0000

Here’s what’s new in Hong Kong this month!

Summer holidays are nearing their end and we’re still hoping for the rain clouds to part, but until then there’s certainly enough to keep the whole family entertained! From themed trains and teas to Hong Kong revolutionising travel and jumping on fan-favourite trends, scroll down to see all that’s new in the 852 this month.

Enchanting Wizard Of Oz Afternoon Tea At Regent Hong Kong

Take your tots on a culinary trip down the yellow brick road! Starting on Monday, 12 August, indulge in carefully crafted sweet treats inspired by this beloved story, such as the Honey sponge cake (with a tail) paying homage to the Cowardly Lion, and a Cacao creation adorned with a little red heart, representing the Tin Man’s search. Grab a cheeky Yellow Brick Road cocktail with a tequila base or the wild Tornado mocktail featuring a blend of vanilla rooibos tea, strawberry syrup and lemon juice. The Lobby Lounge at the Regent presents this delightful afternoon array in support of the Hong Kong Ballet’s Asian premiere of The Wizard of Oz on Friday, 30 August.

2024 World Lacrosse Women’s U20 Championship

Hong Kong is certainly making its mark as the sport event capital of Asia! For the first time ever, our city is hosting the World Lacrosse Women’s U20 Championship, taking place from 15 to 24 August across four venues. This is the perfect way to get your kids into sports and witness the culmination of hard work as these teams could be representing their countries when Lacrosse makes it Olympic return in 2028. Go show your support for our local team!

CUPNOODLES MUSEUM Celebrates The Birth Of Instant Noodles

Did you know that the world’s first instant noodle was launched on 25 August, 1958? In celebration of its birthday, in the My CUPNOODLES Factory, you can use a special new ingredient – Nissin Hiyoko-chan fish cake – for the month of August only. If you happen to pop over on the weekend of 24 or 25 August, you might catch beloved mascots Ching Chai and Nissin Hiyoko-chan at the museum, and there are loads of freebies and discounted snacks for the family to snag as well!

“100% Doraemon & Friends” High Speed Rail To China

If your little ones are fans of Doraemon, now may be the perfect time to plan a trip Shenzhen or Guangzhou and let them delight in the themed trains which are adorned with 50 unique looks of everyone’s favourite robot cat. The cartoon-decked trains will be in operation until Sunday, 18 August. This is the final event marking Doraemon’s visit to Hong Kong, so be sure to snap pictures with the sculptures at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station while you can!

Grilling Up McGriddles

Have your kids been pestering you to try the latest craze, McGriddles at McDonald’s? It would appear it sold out fairly quickly, which is to be expected knowing the way Hongkongers flocked to McDonald’s in Japan to try this treat. However, from 5 August to 8 September, you can order these sought-after sandwiches exclusively from foodpanda and enjoy its sinful deliciousness in your own home. Hopefully these will stay in stock a little longer!

The World’s First Smartphone Express Bag Drop Service

Checking in for a Cathay Pacific or HK Express flight has never been easier. The first of its kind in the world, you can now use this smart technology to check-in online, scan your travel documents and then head straight to the Express Bag Drop counters at the Hong Kong International Airport to drop your luggage off using your phones in under a minute. This will be especially useful for large families (with children aged above 11) as it will shave so much time off the departure proceedings!

The post What’s New In The 852: 6 Hot Picks For Sassy Families This August appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>

Weekend Planner 2 – 4 August: Activities And Events For Kids And Families In Hong Kong

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 22:00:24 +0000

Are you tuning into the Olympics in this weekend? Or do you prefer water parks, musicals and other fun Hong Kong events with the kids? Here are a few musts for your agenda, from Friday, 2 August to Sunday, 4 August.

Do you have a sports-crazy kid at home? If so, there are plenty of places to watch the Olympics this weekend that will have you waving the Hong Kong flag with pride! Those in the family who aren’t into sports, they will find many other family-friendly summer events around the city over the weekend, including water parks, musicals, bouncy castles and more.

We know that weekend events in Hong Kong tend to get booked early, and we have listed upcoming activities for your calendars. Public registration for the very popular Disneyland 10K Weekend Run is open, so book your slots now.

Things to do with kids in Hong Kong this weekend: Events, activities and promotions

Paris Olympics 2024 – What we’ll be watching this weekend!

Did you watch Hong Kong bag fencing golds? We did and squealed with delight! And then Siobhan Haughey gave us a double delight with her swimming medals. Do you know where to watch the Olympics? From TV channels to bars, malls and sports centres, here’s where to get your sporting fix this weekend!

When: On until Sunday, 11 August 2024
Where: TV Channels, Bars & Malls

Hong Kong Observation Wheel – Free rides this weekend

More reason to get into the Olympic spirit! AIA Vitality is offering FREE Ferris Wheel rides to celebrate the amazing achievements of our Hong Kong athletes for all tourists and citizens this Sunday, 4 August! It’s always on our list of things to do with kids in Hong Kong and this weekend, there’ll be some Hong Kong pride added to it!

When: Sunday, 4 August 2024
Where: Hong Kong Observation Wheel, AIA Vitality Hub, Central
How much: Free

Under 16 Breakdance Competition – ‘Breaking’ this weekend

AIRSIDE has partnered with HOYTV to bring live broadcasts of major events from the Paris 2024 Olympics, along with professional commentary. You can also participate in a host of interactive sports challenges with your children though July and August. This weekend, there’s the U16 Breakdance competition where your kids can show off their moves! After all, breakdancing or breaking is now an Olympic sport and we’re expecting to see more teen medallists this year. There will also be breakdance workshops and a dance performance by B-Boy C Plus and dance group, The Breakdown Station. Make a note of upcoming virtual bicycle races, children’s fencing performances, rope skippers, competitive cheerleaders and martial artists on the weekend of 17 and 18 August! Plus, there’s also going to be a Pawsome Olympic torch relay for pets where you can use AI to harness your dogs into the sports action!

When: On until Sunday, 18 August 2024
Where: AIRSIDE, Kai Tak, Hong Kong
How much: Free

Hong Kong Parent-Child Play Pass – Weekend thrills for the whole family

We all love indoor playrooms and in the summer, we love it that much more! KKDay’s Hong Kong Parent-Child Play Pass is too good to miss out on! From now until the end of the month, you can buy a pass that offers access to 13 indoor playrooms, where you can enjoy three attractions at a time.

When: Until Saturday, 31 August 2024
Where: Indoor playrooms across Hong Kong
How much: From $348
Details: Kkday

Weekend brunch – Pirata Group specials this month

Weekends in Hong Kong are for family brunches and the Pirata Group has special offerings in August. Every saturday at The Sixteenth, families can enjoy a four-hands brunch collab between La Favorita and Honjokko (starts at $498 for seven starters, one main and one dessert), or else, choose the Sunday Kids Brunch. Kids under 6 eat free and there’s a face painter, balloon twister, movie room and a dedicated play area to keep the littles entertained.

When: Weekends in August
Where: The Sixteenth

Twilight Rhythmics – Summerfest special this weekend

Have your kids been asking you questions about the Olympics that you can’t answer? “What’s rhythmic gymnastics?” Take them to watch this event at Summerfest Central, complete with live performances and interactive workshops, so your children can experience the sport up close and personal.

When: Friday, 2 August 2024; 4pm to 8pm
Where: Sections C & D, Central Harbourfront Event Space
How much: Free
Details: Summerfest

Jurassic Water Park – Slip and slide with dinosaurs this weekend

Hong Kong is teeming with water parks at the moment but we have to say, there is a charm to sliding through the legs of a dinosaur! Book a full day package to the Tai Mei Tuk Dinosaur Water Park, enjoy the inflatable slides, pool, bubble battle and the food – an all-day buffet and an evening barbecue.

When: Until Sunday, 8 September 2024
Where: BBQ venue, 202 Tuk Ting Kok Road, Tai Mei, Hong Kong
How much: From $326
Details: Klook

Summer Specials – Water battles at Water World Ocean Park

When we are talking about water parks, how can Hong Kong’s ultimate water park be far behind? Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong is offering a sizzling summer lineup with water battles such as Water Volleyball, Water Basketball and Water Tug of War. On weekends, you can watch a demonstration of surfing techniques and try them out yourself. Let your kids have a go under the watchful eyes of trained surf instructors and your family will be ready to ride the waves in no time!

When: Until Sunday, 15 September 2024
Where: Water World Ocean Park
How much: From $238

Mamma Mia The Musical – Popular musical returns to Hong Kong

The global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! is coming back to the city after five years! Set to the songs of Swedish group, ABBA, this movie revolves around one girl’s quest to find her father. Introduce your kids to Dancing Queen, Super Trouper and Money, Money, Money and the family can all be joining in the chorus of this fun show!

When: On until Thursday, 15 August 2024
Where: HKAPA Lyric Theatre
How much: From $680 t $1,280
Booking: Cityline

Annie The Musical – Plan a trip to Macau this weekend

Staying with musicals, this is one that the kids will love! Broadway’s evergreen musical Annie about the brave, little orphan girl is coming to Macau. It’s worth hopping onto a ferry and making your way there to hear her sing Tomorrow! It’s only for a limited time, so try to make it there over the next two weekends.

When: Friday, 2 August to Wednesday, 14 August 2024
Where: Macau Cultural Centre Grand Theatre
How much: From 380 to 880 MOP
Booking: Macau Children’s Art Festival

Spend a Night at the Museum – Hong Kong Palace Museum specials for kids starting this weekend

Hong Kong Palace Museum is surprisingly child-friendly and you will see that in action this weekend. Get your children to sign up for the “Party at the Palace” workshop where they get to dress in court attire, visit The Adorned Body in Gallery 9 under the guidance of a dressed-up tutor and make their own headpieces inspired by the French accessories on display. Post that, have a family night out with the Palace Museum’s first sleepover event. The programme includes an overnight stay and a series of educational activities, such as games modelled after ancient imperial court pastimes and bedtime storytelling. Registration has now opened on the Hong Kong Palace Museum website.

When: Saturday, 3 and Sunday, 4 August 2024 (Party at the Palace) and Monday, 5 and Tuesday, 6 August 2024 (Sleepover)
Where: Hong Kong Palace Museum
Booking: HKPM

Mr Men & Little Miss – Mini Games @Plaza Hollywood

In association with Stayfun, Plaza Hollywood is getting a 8,000-square foot inflatable park based on the lovable characters of the Mr Men & Little Miss. Timed around the Paris Olympics, there will be five major sports and fun levels. Let your kids brave the 7- meter Mr Happy Fun Slide and try their hand at mini basketball. There’s also a 16-metre long track and field obstacle course and a mountain climbing inflatable maze.

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: Plaza Hollywood, Diamond Hill
How much: Starts at $58 for 25 minutes
Booking: Klook

Giant Games Challenge – Hasbro livens up your weekend mall visit

Board game-loving families, this is for you! Sau Mau Ping Shopping Mall in Kwun Tong has teamed up with Hasbro Gaming to offer giant, life-sized versions of their most popular board games. The outdoor space features a Journey of Life game scene, complete with a four-metre-wide giant turntable. Game elements have been integrated into the outdoor set-up and it has destiny cards, and a chance to win small gifts and designated merchant coupons. Head inside the mall to play real-life-sized chess, Twister and Connect 4. Don’t forget to sign up for Asia’s first Connect 4 Four-Back Challenge on Saturday, 24 August.

When: On until Sunday, 25 August 2024; Connect 4 Four-Back Challenge on Saturday, 24 August 2024
Where: Sau Mau Ping Mall, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
Registration: Link Up (for the Connect 4 competition)

LEGO® X Stayfun Bricktopia – Weekend fun for all Lego enthusiasts

Let your kids enjoy a LEGO® space adventure this weekend! They can imagine themselves space explorers as they bounce around on soft inflatable planets and use LEGO® bricks to build their ideal Bricktopia in space!

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: Citywalk, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong
How much: $119
Booking: Klook

Summer Challenge – Weekend action for gamers and drone specialists

There doesn’t seem to be a mall in Hong Kong that doesn’t have an inflatable playground and some Olympic game event on! Not to be left behind, Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre is organising a Summer Challenge in collaboration with InnoSpire Technology, that’s known for its advancements in artificial intelligence and drone technology. It’s offering a French (bien sur!) cartoon character Barbapapa- themed “Drone Flying Challenge” and “VR Remote Car Challenge” that parents and kids alike are sure to love! Take on the challenge and win exciting gifts (we have to admit they are rather cute!).

When: On until Sunday, 11 August 2024
Where: Tsz Wan Shopping Centre, Tsz Wan Shan, Hong Kong
Details: LinkHK

Wild Animal Rescue Centre – Visit Kadoorie Farms this weekend

It’s not only about sports this weekend. The Wild Animal Rescue Centre (WARC) of Kadoorie Farms is celebrating 30 years of existence and a whopping 70,000 wild animals rescued. It’s a good time to visit them and see their work in action. Donations and volunteers are always welcome!

Things to do with kids in Hong Kong on weekends: Ongoing events, activities and promotions

DB Splashtopia – Summer splashes this weekend

Sun, sand and splashes galore – it’s all happening at Discovery Bay this weekend! Always a popular spot for a weekend day trip, this tie up with Kiztopia Hong Kong is bound to have hordes streaming in to enjoy a summer splash at this fun-filled water park on Tai Pak Beach!

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024; 10am to 1:30pm and 2:30pm to 6pm
Where: Tai Pak Beach, Discovery Bay
How much: Starts from $138
Booking: Klook

“100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS” Tour – Much-awaited Doraemon exhibition

We hope you booked the final batch of Doraemon exhibition tickets when they went up this week (always follow our Sassy Mama socials to stay in touch with flash sales and special deals!). Remember, there are free-entry zones as well as a pop-up store that’s open to everyone so buy your Doraemon collectibles this weekend.

When: On until Sunday, 18 August 2024
Where: K11 Musea, Tsim Sha Tsui
How much: $120 to $320 (tickets are now sold out for the ticketed areas, free admission for the outdoor exhibition)
Booking: Klook

Circus Party At Kai Tin Shopping Centre – Juggling and acrobatics performances on weekends

The newly renovated Kai Tin Shopping Centre in Lam Tin has a Circus Party on through July and August. Every weekend, you can sign the kids up for a unique workshop (including a circus act with juggling, hula hoops and spinning discs!).

When: On until Sunday, 25 August 2024; Circus performances on Sunday, 28 July and Saturday, 17 August 2024
Where: Kai Tin Shopping Centre, Lam Tin, Hong Kong
How much: Membership though Link Up mobile app and minimum spending at the centre (depending on activity or workshop chosen)
Registration: Link Up on Android or iOS

Inside Out 2: Emotion Playpark – Plan a movie date and conversation with your kids this weekend

Have you seen Inside Out 2 yet? If you haven’t, watch it with the kids this weekend and talk to them about the new feelings they might be experiencing, including anxiety, embarrassment and ennui (anyone experienced the eye roll of a teen?). After that, head to the Inside Out 2 Playpark at Times Square, complete with life-size emotions to pose with (bounce around with Joy or weep next to Sadness).

When: Currently on until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: Open Piazza and 2/F Atrium, Times Square, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
How much: Free

Minions “Secret Summer Base” – Meet the Minions this weekend

The Minions are coming to town! Kids can join the Minions’ “agent training camp” and show off their prowess on the slides or at bowling. You’ll also be tempted to buy everything on display at the Despicable Me 4 Pop-up store. Don’t forget – this weekend, there’s also a Minions Meet and Greet!

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024; Minion Meet and Greet on Saturdays, 13 and 27 July, 3 and 10 August 2024
Where: New Town Plaza, Sha Tin
How much: 500 mall points + follow the mall on social media channels
Details: New Town Plaza

Nintendo Switch Summer Fun Festival – Weekend excitement for young gamers

Calling all Super Mario fans! Your kids have probably become fans of the Mario brothers who we grew up with! D ‧ PARK mall visitors can experience the excitement (and addiction!) of Nintendo Switch games for themselves, including the latest game, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD. What’s more, every Sunday, popular characters Mario, Luigi and Brigitte will appear to meet fans.

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024; Meet and Greet sessions on Sundays
Where: Atrium, D ‧ PARK, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong
How much: Free

Paw Patrol Sports Ground Hero – A weekend combining sports and every child’s favourite puppy heroes

With everyone in the family going gaga about the Olympics, why should the youngest ones in the fam miss out? They will love this Paw Patrol themed sports playground with a 5,000 square feet inflatable trampoline and 10-metre-long wave pool. They can try their hand at many sports along with Paw Patrol star, Chase, Ryder, Marshall and Skye. There is also a Paw Patrol pop-up store with over 100 products so be prepared for some spending.

When: Currently on until Wednesday, 28 August 2024
Where: TMT Plaza, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
How much: Starts at $52
Booking: Klook

AIRSIDE X HK Ballet – Immersive art experience this weekend

Are your kids fans of The Wizard of Oz and the ballet? Through the summer, make a stop at AIRSIDE (before or after heading to the airport for your holidays) and enjoy the quick 30-minute immersive arts experience, “Oz Life Journey” by Hong Kong Ballet. The performance uses Mixed Reality (MR), Virtual Reality (VR) and a neon lights installation by a local artist to tell this well-loved story over nine interactive stations.

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: GATE33 Gallery, 3/F, AIRSIDE, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak
How much: Free with prior online registration
Registration: NF Touch

Naked Flowers Exhibition – Take your fur babies along this weekend!

Pamper your pooches by laying them down on a bed of roses (albeit digital!). If you haven’t seen this huge multi-sensory exhibition (over 4,000 square feet!) yet, go this weekend along with your family dog. On Sundays (and Wednesdays, if a weekend visit doesn’t suit your schedule), visitors can dress up their pets, enjoy the immersive light and shadow experience, take photos and enjoy the professional photography team’s instant photo service. The lucky pets and their families will take home an electronic photo and a pet gift bag!

Sassy Mama Tip: If anyone in the family has a birthday in July or August, remember to claim your discounted tickets at $75!

When: On until Sunday, 27 October, 2024
Where: 1881 Heritage G17B and Basement, 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $150 (adults), $120 (kids from 3 to 11 years), kids under 3 go free; discounted birthday month tickets availavle
Booking: Naked FlowersHK

Crossroads’ Family Summer Journeys – Weekend of service and fun

Why not teach your kids about important matters affecting our world over this summer? From workshops to take care of goats to a family friendly walk with blind guides, Crossroads’ Family Summer Journeys will be a great conversation starter about world issues with the kids. You could also choose to volunteer as a family. And if the kids want to burn off steam, head to the Global Playground that has been designed to reflect how kids from developing countries play – with used car tyres and anything they find lying around.

When: Most activities continue until Saturday, 31 August 2024 (all workshops on Saturdays)
Where: Crossroads Village, 2 Castle Peak Road, Gold Coast, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
Booking: Crossroads Foundation (pre-register for the workshops)

Summer Family Cine Fest 2024 – Movies to watch this weekend

Over 50 fun-filled screenings across various iconic venues in Hong Kong! There are live Cantonese dubbing animations, multi-award winning films, shorts with interactive sessions and more.

When: On until Tuesday, 27 August 2024
Where: Various participating venues
How much: Varies
Booking: URBTIX via LCSD

Skechers Summer Water Park – Try a mermaid workshop this weekend

Footwear brand Skechers is presenting a huge summer water park in Sheung Shui. Over a whopping 60,000 square feet, you’ll find two super large inflatable swimming pools with multiple dolphin slides, bear slides, water rocking board floating beds and other facilities. There are new additions to the water park this year – your mermaid crazy kids can join a mermaid workshop while the whole family can try their hand at skimboarding, which is a combination of skateboarding and surfing (coaches available on-site).

When: On until Monday, 28 October 2024, 11am to 6pm
Where: Along Wu Tong River, Shek Wu Sun Village, Sheung Shui, Hong Kong
How much: $298/child, $328/adult (weekend & PH one-day pass)
Booking: Skechers Summer Park

Peppa Pig Adventure – Games & a treasure hunt this weekend

Go on a parent-child adventure exploring the world of Peppa Pig. Using a treasure detector like a camera, you can hunt for treasure with your kids and document your adventures together. After the treasure hunt, you can use the photos to create your own story book and grab a bite at the Peppa Pig cafe.

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: 4/F, iSquare, Hong Kong
How much: $125
Booking: Klook

Hong Kong Disneyland – Turn up summer this weekend

Hong Kong Disneyland knows how to make all things magical, including the summer! From Pixar Water Play to Bubble Blast Parties and Toy Soldier Bootcamps , there are so many reasons to visit Hong Kong Disneyland this summer.

When: On until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Where: Hong Kong Disneyland
Details: Hong Kong Disneyland website

Light Time Tunnel – Let a friendly neighbourhood shop cat in Sai Ying Pun lead you on this tour

Mums in Sai Ying Pun, this is for you! Every time you walked past the Sai Ying Pun Community Centre after visiting King George Park with your kids, you’ve probably marvelled at the architecture of this magnificent building (once a psychiatric hospital with fascinating history). The Love in the Light luminart exhibition will use art, architecture, technology elements, and the concept of a time tunnel to transform the arched veranda into an art exhibition. With augmented reality (AR) technology, an adorable shop cat will roam along the historical veranda, leading you for a stroll through this monument.

When: On until Wednesday, 21 May, 2025; every 10 minutes between 6pm to 10pm (the show lasts 5 minutes)
Where: G/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex, 2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong

MTR Corporation’s Station Rail Voyage – A weekend special for kids who love locomotives

You’ve probably noticed signs on the MTR highlighting its 45th anniversary. The MTR has plenty of activities planned for kids who love trains. Head to the MTR Corporation’s Station Rail Voyage exhibition and find models of old trains and other memorabilia of the city’s lifelines. You need to book your 75-minute slot up to 30 days in advance.

When: On until the end of the year on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays
Where: Hung Hom MTR Station, On Wang Road, Hung Hom
How much: Free
Booking: Register here

Plan ahead: Best upcoming weekend events, activities and promotions for kids and families in Hong Kong

Food Expo

Wondering why we’re including a food trade show in a weekend planner for kids? Perhaps because our parents took us along and it used to be a fascinating adventure for our taste buds! There will be so many cuisines, gourmet foods and snacks to choose from, so we promise your kids will savour the experience.

When: Thursday, 15 August to Monday, 19 August 2024
Where: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre
How much: From $36
Details: Food Expo

The Gruffalo

It’s a while away but you know you need to mark this one in your calendars! Take your kids to watch the clever mouse on his adventures through the woods. This musical is based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s popular children’s book.

When: Thursday, 19 September to Sunday, 22 September, 2024
Where: HKAPA
How much: From $275
Booking: Cityline

Hong Kong Disneyland 10K Weekend 2024

Here’s another one to pencil into your diaries – the Hong Kong Disneyland 10K Weekend 2024 will take place in November. Featuring the usual suspects, Mickey and friends, Marvel superheroes and for the first time, the characters from Frozen, this weekend run has many race options for those families with the tiniest tots to the those willing to do the whole 10K run. Remember that public registration starts at the end of this month and early-bird registration has started.

When: Saturday, 2 November and Sunday, 3 November, 2024
Where: Hong Kong Disneyland
Registration: 10K Run

Read More: Your Guide To Hong Kong Disneyland

Editor’s Note: This post was most recently updated by Anita Balagopalan.

The post Weekend Planner 2 – 4 August: Activities And Events For Kids And Families In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>

6 Hong Kong Mompreneur Brands We’re Loving: Style & Jewellery

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 22:00:32 +0000

We are a bunch of Sassy Mamas who support other Mamas! These Hong Kong brands were founded by mompreneurs. Juggling a business with kids in tow isn’t easy, so go ahead and show some love!

Growing multiple babies at once is no easy feat – we’re talking businesses and kids! Which is why this special series will focus on mompreneurs making waves in the 852. Below are six brands founded by Mamas whom we’ve either worked with, whose brands we’ve shopped at or heard highly of – so know all opinions are genuine!

The R Collective

Proud Mama Christina Dean is the lady behind Hong Kong sustainable label, The R Collective, as well as the fashion NGO, Redress. The R Collective’s highly-skilled designers use fabric waste and scrap fabric to upcycle them into corporate products, bespoke bags and product packaging.

Malabar Baby

Anjali Harjani previously opened up about balancing her luxury lifestyle brand Malabar Baby and being a full-time Mama! Malabar Baby’s sustainable and buttery soft swaddles, bath robes and twinning sets all come in beautiful block prints – plus the fabric is so light and suitable for Hong Kong summers.

Baysic Love Resortwear

We stand our ground when we say kaftans are one of the most elegant attires that also keep us comfortable. Baysic Love Resortwear founder Dimple Weekes is a self-taught designer with 15 years’ experience working in the Bollywood industry – her kaftans for Mamas and little ones sure caught our eye, along with the block-print bomber jackets!

Kajal Naina

Be it an every day pair of earrings or regal Indian-inspired necklace sets, award-winning jewellery designer Kajal Naina knows how it’s done. Outside of work, Kajal is passionate about education for the youth – a portion of her brand’s profit is donated to support different organisations working to help women and children.

Anthea Cooper

Centering around the natural beauty of gemstones and making them statement pieces that are suitable for everyday wear, Anthea Cooper’s pieces are hand-crafted in India and aim to inspire other women to feel confident in their best selves. The affordable price tag also makes this brand accessible to all! Though this Mama is no longer based in Hong Kong, she continues to base her business (and loads of memories) here.

MiliMilu

Mama of two, Linda Morrison’s sustainable fashion brand MiliMilu has been featured on our site multiple times and for good reason! Shop cute dresses, swimwear (both for kids and Mamas), boys’ shirts and more – all in unique boho chic print!

The post 6 Hong Kong Mompreneur Brands We’re Loving: Style & Jewellery appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>

Guide To Ocean Park Hong Kong: Ocean Park Rides, Animals, Tips And More

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 22:00:50 +0000

Ocean Park Hong Kong has got everything for a great family day out. With cable car adventures, roller coasters, theme park rides and many other amusement park attractions – it’s time to make another visit!

Ocean Park Hong Kong is one of the city’s biggest amusement parks, located in the lush surroundings of Aberdeen. Pandas, sharks, stingrays, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, walruses and large manta rays are some of the headline animals to see. Plus, adrenaline junkies and funfair enthusiasts will also have plenty to keep them happy with various roller coasters and rides. From booking tickets to where to eat with kids and plenty of useful tips, here’s your ultimate guide to Ocean Park Hong Kong.

Sassy Mama Tip: Make the most of it by booking a stay at the family-favourite Fullerton Hotel Ocean Park which also offers packages deals to the Water World Ocean Park!

Jump To:

Ocean Park Tickets, Opening Times, Location
Plan Your Day At Ocean Park
Animals At Ocean Park
Ocean Park Rides And Attractions
Food At Ocean Park
Seasonal Attractions At Ocean Park
How To Get To Ocean Park
Ocean Park Hong Kong Hotels
Family-Friendly Facilities At Ocean Park
Extra Tips For Ocean Park

Ocean Park Tickets, Opening Times And Location

Ocean Park location: 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong

Contact details for Ocean Park Hong Kong: 3923 2323, gr@oceanpark.com.hk, www.oceanpark.com.hk

Ocean Park Hong Kong Opening times: Every day except Tuesdays; 10am to 7pm (the Summit closes at 6:30pm)

Book Ocean Park Hong Kong Tickets – Special deals, annual passes and more

We recommend buying your Ocean Park tickets in advance. It’s best to book these tickets online as queues can get very long.

Ocean Park Hong Kong General Admission Tickets: Adult (aged 12 or above) – $498; child (aged 3 to 11) – $249

What does the Ocean Park General Admission ticket get you? Usually, the deal will give you unlimited access to the park within a dedicated time frame. The price for this is around the same as a one-day pass so makes the most sense for families.

Buy Ocean Park Hong Kong General Admission tickets here. Klook also offers some good deals, discounts and packages. There are always special promotions and discounts, so always check what the seasonal attractions and packages are.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Annual Membership: Adult (aged 12 or above) – $1,380, Child (aged 3 to 11) or student – $980

If your kids are crazy about animals and love the other theme park attractions, then the Ocean Park Annual Membership is a good option. You’ll get unlimited access to the park for a year (blackout dates apply), dining, shopping and birthday deals, admission to exclusive programmes, as well as other welcome offers worth $720. You can even share your membership with your doggy friends and bring them to the Park on selected dates!

Buy Ocean Park Hong Kong Annual Membership here.

Ocean Park Hong Kong FasTrack Pass: $320 (same price for adults and children)

If you hate queueing (or have impatient kiddos) then the Ocean FasTrack is a good shout. For an additional $320 per person, you’ll get seven priority accesses for designated rides and attractions. You could also go all out on the Fastrack Pro pass for $580.

Buy Ocean Park Hong FasTrack passes here.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Special Offers

There are also other special offers up for grabs. These are often limited-time offers and change every season, so be sure to check the website.

Buy Ocean Park Hong Special Offers here.

Plan Your Day At Ocean Park Hong Kong: From Animals To Rides

Covering the entire park in a day is impossible, even with older kids. We recommend that you make a staycation of it and visit the park over a couple (or several) days to get your money’s worth and experience everything. If you have an unlimited entry pass, you can even head home and return another weekend – something you might want to do so you can fully recharge those batteries!

Similarly, when you’ve got little ones who need to take regular breaks, making your way around all the attractions in one day is a no-go. Especially if your toddler refuses to get into their pushchair and insists on walking everywhere (speaking from experience here)! So, make sure you go with realistic expectations of what you’ll see in one day.

To give you an idea, here’s our suggestion of how to plan your day:

Plan which areas are a “must” for your family. Check the park map and create your virtual itinerary before you arrive. Be sure to check the daily schedule with area opening times and performance schedules.
Plotting a course of action, based on animal feeding times, is also a good idea. While you can see animals at your leisure, feeding time is usually a guaranteed way of seeing a bunch of animals together, or at least staying still in one place for a longer time.

Visiting Ocean Park Hong Kong With Older Kids

After exploring Whisker’s Harbour, Amazing Asian Animals, Giant Panda and Aqua City, take the Ocean Express train to the upper parts of the park.
Once in the top section, you have access to Marine World, the Rainforest, polar Adventure Adventure Land and Thrill Mountain. It’s a crowd-pleasing mix of animal adventures and thrilling rides and roller coasters.
Then, take the cable car down when it’s less hot and the park is all lit up. Head into the Grand Aquarium to round off the day if you haven’t yet seen it.
Alternatively, if you’re going to the park only for the rides, jump on the Ocean Express and head straight to the top section to get stuck in!

Visiting Ocean Park Hong Kong With Younger Kids

Take a look at the animal feeding schedules before you arrive so you know exactly where to head first. The Giant pandas and penguins were both a big hit for our toddlers.
You can follow the same path as you would with older kids but select fewer animals/areas to see.
If your little one needs a nap, aim for the Ocean Theatre. It has shows at 12pm, 3:30pm and 5pm and you can stand at the top of the auditorium while LO naps in their pushchair in the shade or covered from any rain.
If you have time, take the cable car back down towards the end of the day and enjoy the views. But be warned, the line for the cable car can sometimes take longer than 20mins (way too long for impatient toddlers) so the Ocean Express can be more efficient.
If your little one still has any juice left, see the Grand Aquarium at the end of the day. On hot days, you’ll appreciate the air-conditioning to cool off, on rainy days you can escape from the downpour. Plus, it’s nice and dark so if youngsters are chilling in their stroller, they can have a well-earned rest!

Ocean Park Hong Kong Animals: Giant Pandas, Crocodiles, Penguins, Otters And More

Naturally, a trip to Ocean Park Hong Kong would not be complete without seeing its many animals. Starting with Crocoland at the entrance to the multi-storeyed Grand Aquarium and the ever-popular Giant Panda enclosures, Ocean Park Hong Kong is a treat for all kids who love to see and interact with animals.

It’s also natural that Ocean Park Hong Kong has received a lot of flak in the past for holding animals in captivity as well as its dolphins and sea lions performance shows. In its defence, the park has created and promoted a lot of educational and conservation programmes for young children who want to know more about marine wildlife protection. If you do decide to visit Ocean Park Hong Kong, try to have a conversation with your kids about important topics like environmental conservation, the dangers of overfishing, responsible tourism, etc. and let them understand both sides of this amusement park’s story.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Animal Attractions Worth Visiting

Crocoland – Meet Passion, the rescued crocodile who is now an Ocean Park Hong Kong resident. She has been proudly named by Hong Kong residents.
Giant Panda Adventure – The most popular residents at Ocean Park Hong Kong, along with their cute cousins, the Red Pandas. Don’t forget to watch the Red Panda feeding in the afternoons at 2pm.
Little Meerkat and Giant Tortoise Adventure – You might wonder what the meerkats are doing at Ocean Park Hong Kong! We did too! But we have to admit, it’s quite amusing to watch them dart about the slow moving giant tortoises.
South Pole Spectacular – Who can resist the waddle of a penguin? There are over 90 penguins from three species here, including king penguins, southern rockhopper penguins and white-bonneted, gentoo penguins. You can see these fascinating birds from stunning angles above and underwater.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Roller Coaster Rides And Attractions: Arctic Blast, Raging River, Polar Adventure, Grand Aquarium And More

There is so much to see and do at Ocean Park Hong Kongthat it can feel quite overwhelming. But to simplify the visit, you have eight zones to explore:

Ocean Park Hong Kong Zones At The Waterfront (entrance area of the park):

Aqua City
Amazing Asian Animals
Whiskers Harbour

Ocean Park Hong Kong Zones At The Summit (at the top of the park via the Ocean Express/Cable Car/pathway):

Thrill Mountain
Polar Adventure
Rainforest
Marine World
Adventure Land

Tips For Visiting Ocean Park Hong Kong’s Attractions

With so many attractions to see, from water rapids to roller coasters, children’s play areas, animals and more, it’s difficult to mention them all here. So make sure you check the online list to guide you. You can filter by age range and category to make it easier.

Keep an eye on showtimes at the Whiskers Theatre and the Ocean Theatre and animal interaction timetables by selecting Animal Interaction Enrichment on the daily Programme Schedule.

With a multiple-entry pass to the park (see above for details), you can divide your time over several visits. It could be that you do only The Waterfront and The Summit animals on different days. Or only the theme park rides, roller coasters and games on another.

Sassy Mama Tip: Keep an eye on the website for facilities that are closed or under maintenance to avoid disappointment. You’ll find the most recent information when you hover over the purple “The Experience” tab.

Best Ocean Park Hong Kong Rides For Kids Under 5

Animal visiting aside, little ones can take a trip on the Sea Life Carousel, Merry-Go-round, Toto The Loco train and Balloons Up-Up-And-Away – those who don’t meet the height restrictions must be accompanied by an adult.

There’s also the HiPP Presents Jungle of Giants or Castle of Redd playgrounds to enjoy, as well as other low-key attractions like the Eco Trail.

Best Ocean Park Hong Kong Rides For Older Kids

Try the Arctic Blast kids roller coaster, the Flying Swing or the Ferris wheel. Tweens will love the Bumper Blaster and the Crazy Galleon swinging boat.

For a little extra oomph, older teens will love the faster roller coasters. Hair Raiser, The Flash and Wild Twister are probably the top rides for thrill-seekers.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Attractions With Air Conditioning

Let’s be honest, the Hong Kong heat and humidity can sometimes get too much – especially if you’re on your feet all day at a theme park. The Arctic Fox Den and North Pole Encounter are by far the best places to cool off (plus you get to hang out with the adorable foxes and penguins). Panda feeding time was also a big hit with one Sassy toddler – and her mother because of the air-conditioning! Shark Mystic and Grand Aquarium are also great places to escape the heat.

Food At Ocean Park Hong Kong: What And Where To Eat

You have several restaurants to choose from, including everything from local Cantonese specialities to Southeast Asian dishes, seafood and pizza. For a real underwater experience, opt for Neptune’s Restaurant – Hong Kong’s only aquarium restaurant. There are also numerous food kiosks dotted all over the park with outside seating for quick grab-and-eat situations. The park can also assist those with dietary and religious needs, simply contact Guest Relations ahead of your visit (3923 2323)

On a hot day, aim for one of the canteen areas to cool off while eating your lunch. But be warned, there will be people hovering over you waiting for you to finish so they can jump into your seat.

There are several food outlets to choose from but they can be pricey, so it might be wise to take a packed lunch if you can be bothered to carry it (and it won’t spoil in the heat).

Summer Splash At Ocean Park Hong Kong

Through July and August this year, things are heating up at Ocean Park Hong Kong! The park is upping the thrills with world-class spectacular stunt performances, dynamic water zones, action-packed obstacle courses and extra special existing in-park attractions.

The littlest ones will enjoy balloon twisting, stilt walking, cheerleading dances and more. They will also be mesmerised by the immersive multimedia show with dazzling lights and fountains and the new pyro effects. But what promises to be even more fascinating and appealing to all the daredevils in the family will be the top-notch international teams showcasing their extraordinary talents – from thrilling BMX bike action to heart-stopping aerial stunts and buzzworthy break dances (did you know it’s now an Olympic sport and with good reason?!).

For families that love a challenge, there’s an Obstacle Rush where you need climb, crawl and conquer all that lies in your way, game booths where you can win adorable plushies for your kids and more.

The summer special also includes a range of delicious fruit-based snacks and drinks that are available at most of the restaurants and snack counters mentioned above.

Want an even sweeter deal this summer? General admission prices have been slashed – $398 for an adult and $239 for a child.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Summer Splash 2024

When: Saturday, 6 July to Sunday, 25 August 2024
Details and schedule: Ocean Park Hong Kong website
Tickets: $398 (adult), $239 (child)

How To Get To Ocean Park Hong Kong

MTR To Ocean Park Hong Kong

This is probably the most convenient and easiest way for most families to get to Ocean Park. Take the South Island line from Admiralty directly to Ocean Park (approximately six minutes).

Bus To Ocean Park Hong Kong

There are numerous buses you can catch that will take you directly to Ocean Park. The website lists the buses available from Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories that you can take.

Taxi/Uber To Ocean Park Hong Kong

If you prefer to travel on your schedule, an Uber or Taxi from Central Hong Kong will take about 25 to 30 minutes and cost around $85 to $100. This is dependent on traffic and where exactly you are travelling from.

Driving To Ocean Park Hong Kong

There is a car park at the main entrance of Ocean Park available from 8:30am to 30 minutes after the park is closed (the park closes at 7pm). It is best to book parking in advance.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Car Park Rates:

Monday – Friday (Non-peak days)	$25 per hour (maximum charge of $150 per day)
Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and peak days^*	$40 per hour (maximum charge of $200 per day)

^*The peak days are announced on the Ocean Park website.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Hotels

Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel

A Sassy Mama recently did a staycation at the Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel (check the website for full details) and said it was well worth it not to have to travel all the way back to an outlying island. Not only will you be able to plan your days in the park without feeling rushed, but you’ll also not have to travel far to rest your tired feet!

The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong

The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong has been a firm favourite since its opening. This sustainable, oceanfront luxury resort adds another option for the family to relax after a busy day’s adventuring.

Family-Friendly Facilities At Ocean Park Hong Kong

Ocean Park Hong Kong undoubtedly has enough rides, thrills and animals for older kids, but is it suitable for the youngest members of our family? Yes and no. Here’s our honest opinion about the family-friendly services at the park.

Baby changing facilities at Ocean Park Hong Kong

There are baby changing facilities dotted around the park (with baby changers, bottle warmers and feeding seats) but we struggled to find them. We also had to wait in line for a while for the one that we did.

Sassy Mama Tip: The women’s toilet block near the Fun Fair has a double toilet with a child-size seat which is useful.

Stroller access and hire at Ocean Park Hong Kong

Other facilities that parents will love are the stroller hire at $140 per day (plus a $100 refundable security deposit).

Child safety and useful services at Ocean Park Hong Kong

We love that we get child wristbands to write contact details on if you become separated. There is also the Guardian Switch service, which lets you jump on your favourite rides while a park expert stays with your most precious valuables (the kids!).

Extra Useful Ocean Park Hong Kong Tips

Arrive early to maximise your day but be realistic about how much you can do, especially depending on your children’s age.

Make sure to bring a sunshade, suncream, water, fan, etc. for little ones, especially if they are in their pushchair as it can get very hot.

If you’re visiting in the summer heat, plan to watch the shows in the afternoon. This will give everyone a chance to rest tired legs and restore a second wind.

Plan to leave the park at least 20 to 30 minutes before closing. You’ll beat the transport crowds and save yourself time for the journey home when you’re all sure to be tired.

Water World Ocean Park

Don’t forget to check out our guide to Water World Ocean Park which opened in September 2021 (located just a short shuttle bus ride from the main theme park).

Editor’s Note: “Guide To Ocean Park Hong Kong: Ocean Park Rides, Animals, Tips And More” was most recently updated in July 2024 by Sassy Mama.

The post Guide To Ocean Park Hong Kong: Ocean Park Rides, Animals, Tips And More appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>

Where To Watch The Paris 2024 Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels, Sports Centres, Bars & Malls

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 22:00:16 +0000

Hong Kong is gearing up for the Olympics and we need to make sure that we get front-row seats to the action! These are the TV channels, sports centres, bars and malls where you can watch the Paris Olympics 2024 in Hong Kong.

After Hong Kong’s spectacular performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games, it’s but natural that we are all looking forward to the Paris Olympics 2024. From new sports included in the Olympic games to Hong Kong athletes to cheer on, we’ve told you exactly what Hong Kong can expect at the Paris Olympics this year. But do you know where you can watch all the action live (or recorded)?

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels

The Hong Kong government announced last month that they acquired the broadcasting rights for the games and that they will be free to watch on the three local television channels.

So you can watch the Paris Olympics 2024 on:

TVB
ViuTV
HOY TV
And the public broadcaster RTHK.

This means that you can watch the games at home or at any venue that has cable television. This great incentive means that it is easy to plan an event or view the games just about anywhere in Hong Kong.

When To Watch The Paris Olympics 2024: Time Difference & Competition Schedule

Don’t forget that Paris is six hours behind Hong Kong time! Keep checking the schedule of the Paris Olympics 2024 to plan which sports you want to watch. If you have a child who has sporting talent and could be our next Olympic champion in fencing or swimming, you definitely don’t want to miss any of the crucial games.

Important Events & Ceremonies To Watch At The Paris Olympics 2024

Opening Ceremony: For the first time in the history of the Olympics, the Opening Ceremony will be outside a stadium, set on Paris’ main artery, the River Seine and will quite a treat to watch! Unfortunately, it will be well past midnight for us, so make sure you catch the highlights of this spectacle.

The first week itself promises to be action-packed for Hong Kong. Check the schedule and be sure to watch important Olympic medal events for fencing and swimming.

The second week will be critical for our hopes for a badminton medal.

Taekwondo medal events will be towards the last leg of the games while table tennis, rowing and sailing events are evenly distributed over the 15 days of the games. Do check which sports your kids are most keen to watch this Olympics!

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Sports Centres

Just as it has done for previous editions of the Olympics, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will set up the Olympics Focal Site at the designated sports centres under its management across 18 districts to broadcast the events of the Games. The Olympics Focal Site will be open from 8am to 11pm between Saturday, 27 July to Sunday, 12 August 2024. Members of the public are welcome to visit and watch the broadcast of competitions.

Some of the sports centres included are:

Smithfield Sports Centre
Aberdeen Tennis & Squash Centre
Pei Ho Street Sports Centre
Kowloon Park Sports Centre
Tung Chung Man Tung Road Sports Centre
Tsing Yi Southwest Sports Centre
Hong Kong Velodrome

Don’t be disappointed if you don’t find a sports centre near you mentioned above. There are plenty of places to watch the Paris Olympics in Hong Kong. For the complete list, visit the LCSD website.

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Bars & Restaurants

This one is for the parents! You may not want to take your kids to bars (of course!) on a regular basis but you may want to make an exception for the Olympics! There are many bars with great dining options as well, and family-friendly fare on the weekends. Given that Central European Summer Time (CEST) or the time in Paris is six hours behind us, you’re probably going to head to the bars only after work on weekdays or after the kids have gone to bed anyway.

The Blind Pig – Family-friendly sports bar that’s an ideal place to watch the Olympics in Hong Kong

With frequent promotions for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and all child-favourite festivities, this is as kid friendly as a sports bar can get. They have giant screens for all sporting events and are currently asking followers on social media to vote for which Olympic events they should air.

The Blind Pig, Shop GB12-14A, 45 Tai Hong Street, Soho East, Lei King Wan, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong, www.theblindpig.com.hk

Delaneys – Irish pub for live sports, including the Olympics

You can count on the Irish for good beer, bar bites and a love of sports! This Irish pub in Tsim Sha Tsui is a great spot to watch live sports. While right now, it’s all about Euro 2024 and Wimbledon, keep checking their Facebook page to know their live sports schedule when it’s Olympics time in July and August.

Delaneys Kowloon, Basement, Mary Building, 71-77 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/DelaneysKowloon

The Globe  – British gastro pub that airs sports

When it comes to a British bar, you can expect it to be a haven for football enthusiasts. But it’s not just football – The Globe will be airing the Olympics this year and offering Sunday roasts on weekends, traditional Shepherd’s pie and more. You can book the private lounge to watch sports with your friends here.

The Globe, Garley Building, 45-53 Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.theglobe.com.hk

Wan Chai Stadium – Sports bar where you can watch all live action sports and the Olympics

When a bar has “stadium” in its name, it’s a dead giveaway about where its heart lies! Football fans frequently haunt this sports bar though it airs all types of sports. We love its bar bites too – nothing like munching on chicken wings while cheering on your favourite athlete.

Wan Chai Stadium, Shop A3, 72-86 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/wanchai_stadium_official

Other Bars & Restaurants In Hong Kong Where You Can Watch The Paris Olympics 2024

Trafalgar – British pub in Wan Chai. www.trafalgar.com.hk
Dockyard – Sports and skyline views at this Kerry Hotel bar and restaurant. www.shangri-la.com
The Chippy – Fish and chips plus live sports make for the perfect evening in Discovery Bay. www.instagram.com/thechippyhk

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Malls & Olympic-Themed Activities

It seems like every mall in Hong Kong is getting Olympic fever this summer. While there are always fun summer events in Hong Kong, this year, everything is themed around the Olympics! So there are make-shift sports grounds coming up, inflatable sports parks and more.

The government is set to host some events for the games but few have been announced at this time. A legislative council panel document was released in April 2024 by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau that is anticipating many free events and activities. Keep an eye out for some of these anticipated events!

Four of Sino Group’s largest malls are getting in on the action too. There will be massive screens put up at Olympian City, TMT Plaza, Citywalk and One North, so you can always catch the action while you’re in the middle of shopping or dining out. Besides this, these malls have collaborated with local TV stations to have cheering events while the live broadcasts are on (you can find the schedule here).

Other malls are also getting into the action. D.Park in Tseun Wan has announced that it will be airing the Olympics on its indoor lawn, while Central Market will also be airing the main events.

To ring in the Olympics, AIRSIDE is partnering with the acclaimed HOYTV sports production team to bring live broadcasts of major events from the Paris 2024 Olympics, along with professional commentary. What’s more? Your kids have a chance to meet their favourite sporting heroes, Sarah Lee Wai-sze, Angus Ng Ka-long, Monnie Chu Ka-mong and Sze Ka-yam (on Thursday, 25 July)!

Some of the events that we are interested in:

Skaters’ Night – On Saturday, 27 July, Hysan Place is turning the spotlight on this new Olympic sport and inviting local skateboarding masters for special demonstrations and performances with children. Olympic table tennis bronze medalist Minnie So, and Hong Kong women’s high jump record holder Cecilia Yeung will join in the fun by skateboarding for themselves. There will also be breakdancing crews collaborating with BMX groups to put on a street culture spectacle. What’s more? There will be live broadcasts of the Olympic skateboarding’s action from prelims to finals.
Sport for All Day – Sunday, 4 August 2024: A wide range of free activities to be held at designated sports centres in 18 districts on the Sport For All Day 2024. www.lcsd.gov.hk
Mr. Men Little Miss Mini Sports Playground – On until Sunday, 1 September 2024: Plaza Hollywood is opening a massive ‘Mr. Men Little Miss’-themed playground which will include trampolines, a 7-metre-tall slide (that ends in a ball pit), an inflatable maze and obstacle course. www.klook.com
Power Up The Games – You can also participate in a host of interactive sports challenges with your children though July and August at AIRSIDE in Kai Tak. There’s an Under-16 Breakdance competition on Saturday, 3 August and a virtual bicycle race, children’s fencing performances, rope skippers, competitive cheerleaders and martial artists on the weekend of 17 and 18 August!

The post Where To Watch The Paris 2024 Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels, Sports Centres, Bars & Malls appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>

Disneyland Hong Kong: Tickets, Opening Hours, Fireworks & More

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 22:00:17 +0000

There’s more than just rides at Disneyland Hong Kong! It’s where dreams come true and magic comes alive. We’ve got all the insider tips on how to make the most of your day at Hong Kong Disneyland, including all the latest happening, think World Of Frozen!

Taking the kids to the magical world of Hong Kong Disneyland is the perfect escape from hectic city life. But, a day out to any theme park requires a little forward planning to ensure that everyone (including Mamas and Papas) comes away enjoying the day.

While Hong Kong Disneyland is nowhere near as big as its American counterparts, it still requires a bit of navigating and some insider tips will never go astray. Don’t worry, we Sassy Mamas have ventured out (maybe more times than we’d care to admit) and have put together this handy guide with everything your family needs to know to enjoy the Magic Kingdom!

Hong Kong Disneyland Tickets And Annual Passes

It’s always best to organise your Disneyland tickets in advance. Currently, you can book your visit seven days in advance using the online reservation system.

Hong Kong Disneyland One-Day Standard Tickets

Adults – $639; Kids (aged 3 to 11) – $475; Seniors (aged 65+) – $100; Kids (under 3) – FREE!

Hong Kong Disneyland Discounted Tickets

Always keep your eye out for special resident deals and packages. KKDay also offers some good deals, discounts and packages.

Hong Kong Disneyland Magic Access Passes

If you think your family will be enjoying multiple days out at Disneyland then it might be worth investing in a Magic Access Pass. Choose from Silver, Gold or Platinum passes; the main difference being the blockout dates. Generally speaking, with a Silver pass you CAN’T get the perks on weekends, public holidays and for a couple of weeks over Chinese New Year and in the summer. The Gold pass only restricts you over Chinese New Year. There are no blockout dates with the Platinum pass.

There are other benefits too, including dining and merchandise discounts, free parking (with gold and platinum) and other special offers. Be sure to check the fine print — some dining offers are only available for certain months of the year and some outlets are excluded.

Plan Your Day At Hong Kong Disneyland – Opening Hours, Maps & Tips

Covering the entire park in a day is possible but can be tricky when you’ve got little ones who want to take a break or grab a bite at the nearest popcorn stand. Be sure to note these tips:

Hong Kong Disneyland Opening Hours

Park hours: 10:30am to 8:30pm

Important Stage Show Hours:

Stage shows vary by season (scroll down to read about the seasonal attractions), but a few are usually fixed.

Festival of the Lion King: 12:15pm, 2:15pm, 4:45pm

Mickey and the Wondrous Book: 12:30pm, 1:45pm, 4:30pm, 5:45pm, 7pm

Evening Parade: 6:30pm

Nighttime Spectacular: 8:30pm

Visitor Tips From Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland helps you plan your trip carefully. This the advice that you often find on the Disneyland website, along with our own experiences at the park.

Make sure you download the Hong Kong Disney app. An absolute must for any Disney adventure, the app includes wait times for rides and attractions, maps, schedules and more, making it easier than ever to make the most of your time in the Magic Kingdom!
Get the kids involved in your planning. Prioritise their favourite rides (more on that coming up!) and plan to tick these big hitters off as soon as you get to the park.
The audio guides, available at the Guest Relations on Main Street, U.S.A., are another handy tool to help you make your way around the park and feature helpful information about attractions, rides and services at Hong Kong Disney. While a deposit of $1,000 is required to rent a guide, this deposit is refundable as long as you return the guide before the park closes for the day.
Keep an eye out for PhotoPass locations where you can have professional photos taken of you and your family. While you can view the photos online or on the Disney HK app, there are also various photo sale locations scattered around the entire park where you can purchase a more permanent souvenir of your magical day.
If you’re visiting during a festive time like Chinese New Year, Halloween or Christmas, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place that gets more into the festive spirit than Disneyland. Don’t forget to factor in any special seasonal events and attractions into your schedule — they’re not to be missed!

Hong Kong Disneyland Rides, Attractions And Shows

You have seven lands to visit: Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Manor, Toy Story Land and the newly opened Frozen World.

If you have the two-day ticket, divide your time between the different lands by seeing half on your first day and the remaining half on your last. Whichever land you’re in, indulge yourself in some live Disney entertainment and be sure to check out the showtimes.

If you are there for a day, you may not be able to cover all the lands, so pick the characters, stories and themes that your children (and the accompanying adults!) are most familiar with and fond of.

Best Hong Kong Disneyland Rides For Kids Under 5

Our young kids are big fans of The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh ride (this is a hugely popular one so put it early in your schedule!), Dumbo The Flying Elephant and the Cinderella Carousel in Fantasyland, the Jungle River Cruise in Adventureland (watch out for the scarily-real fires!) and the Slinky Dog Spin (although the under-threes might get a bit scared by the speed) in Toy Story Land.

Best Hong Kong Disneyland Rides For Older Kids

Tomorrowland is sure to be a hit with older kids and teens with rides like the Iron Man Experience, Ant-Man And The Wasp and Hyperspace Mountain. There are also some great options in Toy Story Land with the Toy Soldier Parachute Drop and the Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars in Grizzly Gulch.

Hong Kong Disneyland Rides With Air Conditioning

When you need a break from the outdoors put It’s A Small World and Mickey’s PhilharMagic on the agenda. Both let you sit down in some much-needed A/C!

Shows And Other Attractions At Hong Kong Disneyland

Word’s out! The Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad is back on track this month after its five-year closure! Mark your calendars as the Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad resumes service on Sunday November 17, 2023, offering guests a magically nostalgic perspective of the park.

In addition to catching all of your favourite princesses and characters, be sure to catch the Mickey And The Wondrous Book show as your little ones will be dazzled by the performance, or let them test their lightsaber skills with some Jedi Training at Tomorrowland with a chance to fight Darth Vader himself. The Festival Of The Lion King is fantastic for all ages and our tip for the Moana show is to get your kids seats at the front so they can join in the singing and dancing!

Do you have a bit of an artistic streak? Enrol your kids in the Animation Academy, where they can learn to draw Disney and learn about the magic behind their favourite cartoons.

Seasonal Attractions At Hong Kong Disneyland This Summer

Keep an eye out for special themed events like Turn Up Summer which encompasses various happenings running until Sunday, 1 September.

Summer Attractions At Hong Kong Disneyland 2024:

Pixar Water Play Street Party — featuring characters from Inside Out 2
“Adventure Is Out There” — wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet if you’re in the viewing area!
Summer Bubble Blast Party — pop along for all ages
Toy Soldier Boot Camp — soakingly good time for new recruits
And more!

World Of Frozen At Hong Kong Disneyland

The world’s first and largest Frozen World is coming to Hong Kong Disneyland! Officially opening on 20 November, 2023, transport your family to the magical land of Arendelle. You can expect a Frozen-themed rollercoaster — Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs — as well as Frozen Ever After, where you will be invited to Elsa’s Ice Palace for a special “Summer Snow Day”.

Hong Kong Disneyland Fireworks

The night-time show “Momentous” takes visitors on a 20-minute heartwarming journey through your favourite Disney classics. You can expect the Disney castle to come to life with multimedia projections, theatrical lighting, lasers, choreographed fountains, pyrotechnics and, of course, fireworks! The timing of the fireworks vary and it’s on every night except for Wednesdays — check the calendar to be sure you don’t miss it.

Food At Hong Kong Disneyland

It will take all your willpower not to indulge in some of the famous Mickey-themed treats. So, why deny yourself?

You can check out all the Disney dining options before you go, but some of our favourites are the Disney-themed dim sum at Crystal Lotus (in the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel) and Mickey-shaped doughnuts and waffles at the Main Street Bakery, as well as the famous Mango Dole Whip, found at Jessie’s Snack Roundup in Toy Story Land with some piping hot churros – the perfect amusement park snack!

Dietary needs and allergies? No problem. Check this guide out before you go and find out more about how all of your family’s needs can be managed and accommodated before you head off to the Magic Kingdom, including requesting special meals.

Can You Bring Your Own Food To Disneyland?

The good news is yes, you can! If you can’t bear the thought of spending unnecessarily, want some healthier options or have some particularly fussy eaters, don’t fret. You’re allowed to bring your own lunch, snacks, fruit and baby food from home. Just find a comfy outdoor space to enjoy it. Another good tip would be to bring your own water bottles before heading to Disney as a bottle there can easily go for $24! There are refill stations located around the park (usually near the restrooms).

How To Get To Hong Kong Disneyland

MTR to Hong Kong Disneyland

This is probably the most convenient way for most families to get to Disneyland. Take the Tung Chung line to Sunny Bay and switch to the dedicated Disneyland train — complete with Mickey-shaped windows!

Catching the bus to Hong Kong Disneyland

The R8 bus runs from the Lantau Link Toll Plaza (via Inspiration Lake between 9am and 7pm) and costs just $7.

Taxi or Uber to Hong Kong Disneyland

If you prefer to travel on your own schedule, an Uber or Taxi from Central Hong Kong will take about 30 to 40 minutes and cost $250 to $350. Please note though this is highly dependent on traffic and where exactly you are travelling from.

Hong Kong Disneyland Car Park

There is a large, open-air car park right next to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, along with additional parking available at each of the hotels and Inspiration Lake. There’s also a drop-off/pick-up zone if you want to drop the kids (with a responsible adult of course!) closer to the gates.

Disneyland’s car park rates: Disneyland Park – $240 per day; Hotels – $50 per hour (free with hotel booking); Inspiration Lake – $40 per hour. Car parking is free with your Gold or Platinum Magic Pass

Weather And When To Visit Hong Kong Disneyland

Our favourite time to visit Hong Kong Disneyland would be from October to January. Hong Kong’s winter isn’t too severe and even little ones will be able to handle it with the right amount of layers. Plus, the decorations for Halloween, Christmas and Chinese New Year are stunning and the ambience of Disneyland during the holidays is simply magical!

During the summer months, the heat and humidity can get oppressive. Be sure to pack your sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and water bottles.

Sassy Mama Tip: If you are visiting in summer consider treating yourself with a stay at one of the hotels. You can then hit the park as it opens, retire for a siesta and swim in the heat of the day, and return late in the afternoon when crowds have eased.

Hong Kong Disneyland Extended Opening Hours (On Holidays)

The park is open every day from 10:30am to 8:30pm. You can stay on even slightly longer after closing hours to take in the nighttime spectacular though rides and attractions will be closed.

Opening hours are sometimes extended for special events and holidays, so be sure to check the website or app for your chosen date.

Visiting Hong Kong Disneyland During A T3 Typhoon

We’ve all been there, the tickets are booked, the bags are packed and that notification comes up on your phone that there is a T3 Typhoon warning. In all likelihood, there might only be a hint of a breeze but unfortunately, it does mean that many of the rides at Hong Kong Disneyland will close.

Only indoor rides will operate while the T3 signal is hoisted. This means no Mad Hatter Teacups, Cinderella Carousel or Dumbo The Flying Elephant in Fantasyland (only Winnie the Pooh, It’s A Small World and Mickey’s PhilharMagic stay open). There are a few more rides in Tomorrowland (which the big kids will like) and performances like The Lion King still run.

Our verdict… if you have an annual pass and don’t mind the limited rides you can still have a fun day out. If this is your only trip to Hong Kong Disneyland or you’ve been saving this special family day as a treat for the kids, try and reschedule so you can get your money’s worth from your ticket. The T3 warning might deter visitors, but the ones who do visit will all be vying for the same few rides so you can still expect queues!

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotels

In true Disney fashion, Disneyland hotels are decked out with all kinds of fun paraphernalia, making it an absolute dream come true for your kids!

There are three hotels on offer: Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Disney Explorer’s Lodge and Disney’s Hollywood Hotel. Special offers change from time to time, so make sure to check out the website for information on promotions and vacation packages – you can usually find some good deals if you plan ahead and keep up with its seasonal and special offers.

The Disneyland Hotel is very traditional with that old-school Victorian grandeur. It’s got a great pool, a playground, an outdoor maze and an indoor kids’ room. There’s often entertainment to get you into the Disney spirit from the moment you step through the door and you can treat your little princesses to a Disney makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

Sassy Mama Tip: This is the closest of the hotels to the park (about a 10 to 15 minute walk to the entrance) and a free shuttle is offered.

Explorer’s Lodge is a little cheaper than the Disneyland Hotel, but also more modern while the Hollywood Hotel is the most affordable of the three options, but also looking a little tired these days.

Sassy Mama Tip: You can use any of the hotel facilities across the properties no matter where you choose to stay.

Family-Friendly Facilities At Hong Kong Disneyland

They always say to travel light, but if you’ve got little ones to take care of, packing light isn’t exactly an option. Luckily, the park offers a variety of family-friendly services for your convenience.

Baby Care Facilities At Hong Kong Disneyland

The Baby Care Center located on Main Street, USA is the spot to feed, change and nurse your tykes. It’s staffed in case you need an extra hand and there are two nursing rooms with chairs (although the park is definitely breastfeeding-friendly everywhere!), a feeding area with high chairs, and a kitchen with a fridge, microwave and sink! There are also six companion restrooms conveniently located all over the park.

Strollers & Stroller Rentals At Hong Kong Disneyland

Strollers can sometimes get in the way. Don’t worry, stroller parking is available all over the park and outside every ride (keep your valuables with you though!). However, if you want your kids to run free without a stroller throughout the day, storage lockers are available for rental. You can always rent a stroller for the day ($150 per day plus a refundable $100 deposit).

Extra Hong Kong Disneyland Tips From Sassy Mama

If you have enthusiastic kids, plan to arrive at 10am. Not only will you be at the front of the queue, but entry to Main Street USA will start around 10:20am, so you can get to your chosen “land” by the time the rides start operating. That, or grab a well-needed coffee before the chaos!

Speaking of timing, if you’ve made the early start you should be able to get on three to four rides by 11:30am and maybe two more by 12:30pm. After 5pm, the lines are normally shorter again.

If you’re visiting in the summer heat, plan to watch the shows in the afternoon. This will give everyone a chance to rest tired legs and restore a second wind.

If you have a young child who still naps, take your own stroller. They’re far more likely to relax and have a snooze if it is familiar.

Plan to leave the park at least 20 to 30 minutes before closing. You’ll beat the transport crowds and save yourself time for the journey home when you’re all sure to be tired.

If you plan to visit more than three times a year, invest in the Gold Pass. If it is just a one-off visit, be sure to check for deals on KKDay.

Editor’s Note: “Disneyland Hong Kong: Tickets, Opening Hours, Fireworks & More” was published by Jess Mizzi and most recently updated in October 2023 by Fashila Kanakka.

The post Disneyland Hong Kong: Tickets, Opening Hours, Fireworks & More appeared first on Sassy Mama.

]]>