Unlike previous years, the annual Hong Kong Chinese New Year (CNY) parade has transformed into a massive 4-day carnival and has taken place at a more spacious location. To engage the public in all age groups, we designed 3 featured interactive installations with a contemporary twist to traditions.

To celebrate the Year of the Rat, we created a golden rat interactive sculpture. Inspired by the rat wheel, visitors were invited to run inside the wheel to activate the interactive game. Greetings would roll along the circular LED screen synchronised with the running speed of the visitor.

Lottery poetry, also known as “Kau Chim” is a tradition that Chinese would do particularly during CNY. We digitalised this tradition with an enormous installation composed of 30 colourful lanterns. Visitors were asked to shake the chim cylinder, their results would then be displayed on the screen as a number with hints to direct them to find the corresponding lantern for the interpretation of poetry.

For the purpose of creating a lively and upbeat atmosphere in the carnival, we produced an interactive drum set that connects with a set of firecrackers. A firecracker would be illuminated with every hit of the drum. Thus, the word “福” (which means fortune in Chinese) would be lighted up at last until all the firecrackers were illuminated.

Additionally, to take advantage of the environmental factors at the location, wavy windmill paths were built along the pavement. When the wind blew, the windmills in varied sizes spun with the wind. It is said that as the mills turn, they would bring good fortune. Furthermore, there were a few gigantic photo frames distributed in different locations allowing the visitors to create remarkable moments with the stunning view of Victoria Harbour skyline as backdrop.

Location: West Kowloon Cultural District

Client: Hong Kong Tourism Board