The 36th Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is set to take place from 15 to 21 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Running concurrently with the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the World of Snacks, the three fairs are expected to bring together more than 770 exhibitors from nearly 30 countries and regions, offering a one-stop destination for culture, sports and leisure experiences.
This year’s Book Fair adopts ‘Cultural Legacy | Joyful Journeys’ as its annual theme, aiming to inspire readers to explore the heritage and innovation of traditional culture in modern society through reading. Alongside a series of cultural events, the fair presents ‘Cultural July • Joyful Summer Reading’, featuring more than 600 cultural events both at the fairground and across the city. Jenny Koo, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: ‘We hope to inspire readers to explore the heritage and innovation of traditional culture in modern society through reading. Furthermore, we invite everyone to immerse themselves in cultural and eco-tourism, and experience the beauty of culture and nature, broaden their horizons and stimulate their minds along the journey.’
As the HKTDC celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, HKTDC Chairman Professor Frederick Ma will join Hong Kong artist Jane Lee (pen name: Messy Desk) and more than 100 students on the second day of the Book Fair to create a collaborative artwork depicting Hong Kong’s transformation. The ‘World of Art & Culture’ zone, supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the HKSAR Government, will feature the ‘World in Words, A Voyage of the Heart’ exhibition, which connects Hong Kong stories with world literature through four zones and six interactive set-ups.
The Book Fair includes eight seminar series, with renowned writers such as Liu Zhenyun, Su Tong, Bi Feiyu, Liu Jiakun, and Louis Yu participating in the Renowned Writers Seminar Series. The English and International Books Seminar Series welcomes British poet and novelist Luke Kennard, and Joe Ngai, JP, Greater China Chairman of McKinsey & Company, will discuss the global economic landscape. For the first time, the ASEAN Literary Festival will be introduced under the English and International Books Seminar Series, fostering cultural exchange with ASEAN countries. Other notable speakers include Ronnie Chan, Jasper Tsang, and aerospace experts such as Professor Wu Bo, Professor Gao Yang, Professor Su Huifeng, and Dr So Chu Wing.
Diverse thematic zones include the Cultural and Creative Space, featuring the Fujian Pavilion, Hangzhou Pavilion and Hong Kong exhibitor Tsi Ku Chai, showcasing intangible cultural heritage crafts. Chinese Mainland Publishers will bring together 49 publishing organisations, with Yunnan as the featured province. The Hong Kong Jockey Club will set up a themed exhibition area combining learning with fun experiences.
Community initiatives include Sino Group’s ‘Joyful Reading Lucky Rewards’ campaign and sponsorship for underprivileged families, while the Hong Kong Chinese Importers’ & Exporters’ Association and the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers will organise ‘Fun Reading Day’. Sun Hung Kai Properties’ ‘ReadtoDream’ initiative will invite grassroots students to the fair.
The Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo will feature the ‘Fit & Fearless Challenge’ by the Hong Kong Playground Association, lightweight pickleball apparel by Cyber Smart Limited, and an interactive animal experience by My Mini Zoo. The World of Snacks will showcase over 1,300 snacks from nearly 30 countries and regions, including local brands like Amore Hand Baked and innovative products from Do Did Dust and Night Fever Limited.
A single ticket provides access to all three events, with adult tickets priced at HK$30. Special discounts include Morning Admission Tickets for HK$10, Super Passes for HK$88, and tourist tickets for HK$20. For more information, visit the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo website or the World of Snacks website.
