The 36th Hong Kong Book Fair, organized 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.
This year's Book Fair adopts 'Cultural Legacy | Joyful Journeys' as its annual theme, aiming to inspire readers to explore cultural heritage and innovation through reading. The fair will feature over 600 cultural events, both at the fairground and across the city, inviting the public to explore the world through literature and travel. According to Jenny Koo, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, the theme encourages readers to examine the heritage and innovation of traditional culture in modern society and to immerse themselves in cultural and eco-tourism.
A highlight of the fair is the 'World of Art & Culture' zone, which will host the 'World in Words, A Voyage of the Heart' exhibition. This exhibition, divided into four zones, uses the dual angles of 'Local Eye' and 'Global Eye' to connect Hong Kong stories with world literature. It will feature over 200 books and items from around the world, making travel literature accessible and engaging. Additionally, the fair will present eight seminar series, including the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, featuring authors such as Liu Zhenyun, Su Tong, and Bi Feiyu. The English and International Books Seminar Series will welcome authors like Luke Kennard and speakers such as Joe Ngai, Greater China Chairman of McKinsey & Company.
The fair also introduces the ASEAN Literary Festival for the first time, in collaboration with the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation, to foster cultural exchange with ASEAN countries. Other notable speakers include aerospace experts like Professor Wu Bo from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, who will discuss the nation's space missions.
The Book Fair will feature diverse thematic zones, including the Cultural and Creative Space, which returns after its popularity last year, showcasing intangible cultural heritage crafts and creative products. The Chinese Mainland Publishers zone will bring together 49 publishing organizations, spotlighting Yunnan as the featured province. The Hong Kong Jockey Club will set up a themed exhibition area promoting healthy lifestyles.
Community initiatives include the 'Joyful Reading Lucky Rewards' campaign by Sino Group, which will sponsor underprivileged families to visit the fair. The 'Fun Reading Day' organized by the Hong Kong Chinese Importers’ & Exporters’ Association will enable grassroots students to participate. The Sports and Leisure Expo will offer new experiences in sports and edutainment, while the World of Snacks will feature over 1,300 snacks from nearly 30 countries.
A single ticket provides access to all three events, with adult tickets priced at HK$30. Special discounts such as Morning Admission Tickets and Super Passes are available. For more information, visit the Hong Kong Book Fair website or download the mobile app. Details on the Sports and Leisure Expo can be found at its website, and the World of Snacks at its website.
