Wong Tai Sin Temple: First Incense Rush & Lunar New Year Wishes 2024
- Hong Kong’s Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple welcomed thousands of worshippers on Monday, February 16, 2026, as they participated in the annual ritual of burning the...
- The temple opened its doors at 9pm on Monday for the Lunar New Year’s Eve celebration, with the first incense offered to the Great Immortal Wong at 11pm.
- The event drew a diverse crowd, including veteran actress Lana Wong Ha-wai, 95, who appeared dressed as Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Thousands Flock to Hong Kong Temple for Lunar New Year Ritual
Hong Kong’s Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple welcomed thousands of worshippers on Monday, February 16, 2026, as they participated in the annual ritual of burning the first incense sticks of the Lunar New Year. The tradition marks the start of the Year of the Horse, with devotees praying for prosperity and health.
The temple opened its doors at 9pm on Monday for the Lunar New Year’s Eve celebration, with the first incense offered to the Great Immortal Wong at 11pm. The Kowloon landmark will remain open throughout the night and the first day of the Lunar New Year, closing its gates at 9pm on Tuesday to accommodate the expected crowds.
The event drew a diverse crowd, including veteran actress Lana Wong Ha-wai, 95, who appeared dressed as Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. Wong reportedly sought “double protection” from the deities following a twelve-year legal battle to reclaim an inheritance.
Crowd control measures were strictly enforced, with a one-way flow of worshippers implemented to manage the large numbers attending the ceremony. According to reports, between 20,000 and 40,000 people were anticipated to visit the temple for the first incense ritual.
The tradition of burning the first incense stick is a significant event for many in Hong Kong, symbolizing a fresh start and hopes for good fortune in the coming year. The temple’s extended opening hours reflect the importance of this ritual to the community.
The event also drew attention from mainland Chinese visitors, with some traveling specifically to experience the “authentic” Lunar New Year traditions.
The Standard reported that hospitals across Hong Kong were also welcoming the first babies born in the Year of the Horse, marking another auspicious beginning for families.
Authorities have also issued warnings regarding the import of raw meat and eggs from mainland China during the holiday period. Water supply disruptions were reported in the Ho Man Tin estate, impacting thousands of residents over the Lunar New Year.
Despite these logistical challenges, the focus remained on the spiritual significance of the Lunar New Year and the hopes for a prosperous and healthy year ahead, as expressed by those who gathered at the Wong Tai Sin Temple.