The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2026 opened today at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC), launching over 280 performances and activities to be held from June to September.

Chief Executive John Lee addressed the opening ceremony via a video speech. Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law; Deputy Director-General of the Department of Publicity, Cultural & Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Lin Nan; and Director of Leisure & Cultural Services Manda Chan officiated at the ceremony at the HKCC.

Pointing out that the National 15th Five-Year Plan calls for advancing the promotion of building a strong cultural nation and supports Hong Kong in developing into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government has formulated the Blueprint for Arts & Culture & Creative Industries Development. The Chinese Culture Promotion Office has also been set up for bringing culture into the community and enhancing the public’s sense of national identity, belonging and pride.

In addition, he highlighted that the CCF makes fine use of Hong Kong’s international network, allowing local citizens and overseas visitors alike to experience the historical spirit and contemporary flair of Chinese civilisation.

The CCF promises to become a cultural bridge connecting Hong Kong with the Chinese Mainland, while reaching out to the world, he stressed.

The opening programme of this year’s CCF, dance drama “Lady White Snake”, which assembles a distinguished creative team of top-tier artists from various disciplines, was staged this evening to a full house. By weaving a dual tapestry of Eastern and Western choreographic languages, the work offers a modern reinterpretation of a millennial folk legend.

Moreover, the “Chinese Culture for All: A Special Performance Series” was held this afternoon at the HKCC Grand Theatre, where over 500 students, teachers and members of the community viewed an open rehearsal of “Lady White Snake”.

Separately, an exhibition of the CCF 2026 opened today and will run until June 25 at the Foyer Exhibition Area of the HKCC, showcasing the CCF’s distinctive stage programmes and activities. A photo-worthy spot featuring the CCF’s special edition of the Leisure & Cultural Services Department mascots has also been set up outside the HKCC.