Hong Kong launches new luxury lifestyle exhibition in November - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Hong Kong is preparing to launch a new international exhibition designed to strengthen its position as a destination for luxury tourism, business events and high-end consumer markets. The inaugural Festival of Connoisseurs will take place from 4 to 6 November 2026 at AsiaWorld-Expo, bringing together exhibitors and visitors from sectors including premium travel, private aviation, superyachts, luxury automobiles, jewellery, watches and fine art.

Organised by Informa Markets in cooperation with AsiaWorld-Expo, the event is the first international flagship exhibition to receive support under a new government funding initiative. Hong Kong has earmarked HK$100 million to attract major international exhibitions with innovative concepts, aiming to reinforce the city's role as a platform for brands from mainland China and international markets. The funding allocation covers the wider initiative rather than being identified as the budget for this individual exhibition.

The Festival of Connoisseurs introduces a concept described by its organisers as "City-as-your-showroom". Instead of concentrating all activities within a conventional exhibition venue, the event connects indoor presentations with experiences around Victoria Harbour and other waterfront locations. Three linked events between 1 and 8 November will allow different audiences to participate, including members of the public who do not attend the main trade exhibition.

Luxury travel and lifestyle meet the MICE sector

The main exhibition will occupy Halls 3 and 6 at AsiaWorld-Expo and will be organised around nine thematic areas. Its programme targets industry representatives, collectors, luxury consumers and other specialist audiences, with opportunities for business networking and presentations of products and services.

For Hong Kong's tourism industry, the event is intended to attract visitors with high spending potential while generating business for hotels, restaurants, transport providers and other companies serving international exhibition participants.

The combination of premium travel, private aviation and yachting also creates connections between different segments of the luxury tourism market. Rather than presenting these activities separately, the exhibition brings them together within a broader lifestyle and travel environment.

The programme includes specialist presentations covering watch collecting, gastronomy and hospitality. Announced speakers include Carson Chan on watch collecting, Michael Ellis on the Michelin Guide and Derek Li on hospitality craftsmanship.

The official opening ceremony on 4 November is expected to be attended by senior government representatives, Airport Authority Hong Kong Chief Executive Vivian Cheung Kar-fay and Patrick Martell, Group Chief Operating Officer of Informa and Chief Executive of Informa Markets.

Victoria Harbour cruises and public yacht displays

Alongside the main exhibition, the organisers have scheduled activities that will be accessible to the general public, subject to advance registration.

The programme begins on 1 November with TFOC Marina Fest at Central Pier No. 10. Between noon and 4 p.m., registered participants will have the opportunity to join complimentary cruises aboard THE FLOAT in Victoria Harbour.

Each experience lasts approximately one hour, including around 45 minutes on the water. Non-alcoholic refreshments and guided commentary are included. Capacity is limited to approximately 50 passengers per departure, and boarding is restricted to guests who receive confirmation from the organisers.

During the main exhibition from 4 to 6 November, a designated outdoor Marina Showcase will offer public access to displays focusing on superyachts and marine lifestyles. Admission to this area is free with advance registration, while the principal exhibition requires registration and a ticket.

The programme continues from 6 to 8 November with the Lantau Yacht Club Boat Show 2026, known as Festa Nautica, at Discovery Bay. The event will feature yachts, marine technology and lifestyle experiences, with free admission for visitors who register in advance.

The boat show will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing an additional opportunity for residents and visitors to explore Hong Kong's maritime leisure sector.

Government support for international exhibitions

The Festival of Connoisseurs forms part of Hong Kong's efforts to attract major international exhibitions that can generate business beyond the exhibition halls themselves.

The government's HK$100 million funding initiative is intended to encourage new event formats and strengthen the city's appeal as a meeting place for international and mainland Chinese businesses. The organisers expect the exhibition to support the wider convention and exhibition industry while creating opportunities for related tourism and hospitality services.

Informa Markets, which operates more than 300 international business-to-business events and brands, plans to expand the Festival of Connoisseurs in 2027. The company intends to increase the scale of the exhibition and introduce additional experiences for professional buyers, collectors and the general public.

For Hong Kong, the event represents an attempt to connect international trade exhibitions more closely with the destination itself. By extending activities to Victoria Harbour and Discovery Bay, the organisers are seeking to make the city's waterfront locations part of the visitor experience while creating additional opportunities for luxury tourism and the local hospitality industry.

Image Credit: © Informa Markets