HONG KONG – The Yu Lan Cultural Festival 2026 kicked off at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay on Friday, with a dynamic line‑up of events designed to bridge tradition and modernity for Hong Kong's younger generation.

Rooted in a custom dating back to the mid‑19th century, the Yu Lan Festival is maintained by various communities across Hong Kong and blends Buddhist and Taoist rites to honor ancestors, pacify wandering spirits, and express gratitude to the deities. The festival has since become an important folk tradition that not only serves as a religious ritual but also strengthens community bonds among different ethnic groups.

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This year's highlights include an immersive interactive theatre performance "Cross Beyond" alongside the "Merit+1" Checkpoint Challenge.

Running through Sunday, the festival also presents themed cultural exhibitions, hands‑on workshops, guided tours, and interactive experiences – all designed to keep the events contemporary, engaging, and accessible to all.

China Daily's Adam Lam took the photos on Friday.