Hong Kong business leaders say Christmas celebrations will be muted following the city's deadliest fire in seven decades, which killed 160 people, as they balance revenue needs with public mourning. The inferno struck Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on November 26, shocking residents and leading to delays or cancellations of many events.
On November 26, an inferno tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong's deadliest fire in seven decades, claiming 160 lives. In the aftermath, many parties, gatherings, concerts, and ceremonies were delayed or cancelled as shocked residents grappled with grief.
Gradually, businesses have begun rolling out Christmas promotions in a low-key manner. Allan Zeman, creator of the Lan Kwai Fong nightlife hotspot, said: “The problem is if you’re too ostentatious, it’s in bad taste.” He added: “I think this month will be kind of a semi-mourning month, so that’s the dilemma that a lot of businesses face. They’ve got to respect what has happened.”
The city's mood has improved slightly, with displaced residents being housed, investigations into the fire's cause underway, and the government going “all out” in relief operations. Restaurants and retailers are gearing up for the season while accounting for residents' grief. Peter Shiu Ka-fai, chairman of the Hong Kong Retail Management Association, noted that businesses must maintain operations while respecting victims' families.
Overall, Christmas festivities will remain subdued to honor the deceased.
