Why Visit Cheung Chau Bun Festival 2025

Every year, the peaceful island of Cheung Chau turns into a lively celebration of tradition and colour during the Cheung Chau Bun Festival. From 3 to 6 May 2025, locals honour the Taoist sea god Pak Tai through temple rituals, parades, and one of Hong Kong’s most exciting traditions — the famous bun-scrambling competition. This festival started over a century ago after a plague hit the island. Locals believed that spiritual ceremonies helped protect the community, and they’ve kept the tradition alive ever since.

Photo by 怪貓, posted on Flickr as 三座大包山, shared under CC BY 2.0

Visitors joining a Hong Kong tour during this time will experience something truly unique. Expect lion dances, drumming parades, colourful costumes, and the adorable floating children procession where kids appear to hover in mid-air. You’ll also see towering bamboo bun towers filled with thousands of sweet buns and taste vegetarian treats sold across the island — a nod to the locals' tradition of going meat-free during the festival. The energy is high, but it’s still a family-friendly and welcoming event for everyone.

Cheung Chau is always worth visiting, but during the Bun Festival, the island shows its heart. A short ferry ride from Central takes you into a world of culture, community spirit, and unforgettable fun. Whether you're after rich stories, great photos, or just a peaceful escape with a festive twist, this is one Hong Kong tour highlight you don’t want to miss.