Although Hong Kong is regarded as an international city, the Lunar New Year remains an important time for most Hong Kong people. 
 
The festive atmosphere is even brighter this year because of a rebound of the economy.

According to the Hong Kong catering sector, orders for festival dinners were up 10 to 20 percent over the same period last year. The Hong Kong Catering Industry Association estimated that the turnover of the catering sector during the Lunar New Year period would be 5 percent higher than last year, reaching US$770 million.

To add to the festive atmosphere, the Hong Kong Tourism Board will arrange the 2005 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade on Wednesday. A total of 12 floats along with 29 troupes will participate in the parade. 

(CRIENGLISH.com February 8, 2005)