Not a big fan of Halloween? Don't worry – there are still lots of things to do for October in Hong Kong. Mark your calendars!
As the pandemic simmers down (fingers crossed), events are pretty much back in full swing in the 852 – which means even if you don’t celebrate Halloween, there are still plenty of things to do around town. From art and music to food and booze, here are our favourite things to do for October in Hong Kong.
What’s on in Hong Kong: October 2021 edition
1. Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Pink Month)
According to the Centre for Health Protection, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers and the third leading cause of cancer deaths for women in Hong Kong. With October being Pink Month, many organisations are drawing attention to breast cancer awareness. While all of them deserve our support, we’d like to give some extra love to The Daily Tot for its Dance for a Cause and Drink for Pink events, as the co-founder of the bar, Tiana Ludhani, has had personal experience with family members battling with the disease. Proceeds from the events will go to National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC), so you can relax and have fun while giving back to meaningful causes.
2. World Mental Health Day (and Month)
It’s World Mental Health Day on October 10, so we’re seizing this opportunity to encourage conversations about mental health. If you wanna get physical – because mental health and physical health go hand in hand – join Talking Mental as they Walk & Talk about all things related to mental wellbeing between October 2 and 11, followed by a three-day pop-up event on the Central Harbourfront. Looking for a place to start? Check out our range of articles on the topic.
Find out more about World Mental Health Day.
3. Italia Mia
The Italia Mia festival will make you go mamma mia! Showcasing the best of Italian art, music, performances, and food from now until the end of the year, Italia Mia will make sure you get your fix of Italian culture – without even having to step outside the 852. After kicking off with the opening concert, Italia all’Opera, on October 4, highlights from the festival programme include a screening of prominent Italian films, an 80s pop concert, performances of the heart-wrenching Madame Butterfly by Puccini, and exclusive menus in Italian restaurants across the city.
Find out more about Italia Mia.
4. Festive Korea 2021
Have you been watching Squid Game? Do you know any K-Pop songs besides Gangnam Style? If the answer is no to either (or both) of these questions, we think it’s time you give Korean culture a chance. (And if your answer was yes, we know we’ll see you at this event!) Learn more about the fascinating culture of Korea by visiting Festive Korea 2021. Offering a range of performances, workshops, film screenings, and even a marketplace at PMQ for food and lifestyle products, Festive Korea will leave fans of Korean culture satisfied, and newcomers to the culture feeling entertained and educated.
Find out more about Festive Korea 2021.
5. Oktoberfest
How can we leave out Oktoberfest on our list when October’s literally in the name? Although the original Oktoberfest in Bavaria has been cancelled this year (boo), there’s plenty of boozy action going on in Hong Kong. So, if you need an excuse to grab a pint, here it is! Following the success of Oktoberfest at BaseHall last year, the event ifs making its comeback on October 9, with family-friendly events during the day and a party for beer-drinkers at night. Various hotels are also hosting Oktoberfest celebrations, including Kerry Hotel, The Murray, and Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel.