Hong Kong marked a year of remarkable anniversaries with a grand celebration at New Town Plaza in Sha Tin. As the People’s Republic of China commemorates its 75th anniversary, Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) proudly celebrated 40 years of its iconic New Town Plaza. The highlight of the festivities was a spectacular pyrotechnic show, the first ever hosted by a shopping mall in Hong Kong, featuring 2,024 fireworks that lit up Sha Tin’s skyline, delighting both residents and visitors.

Beyond the mesmerizing fireworks, the celebration offered an array of engaging activities, including festive illuminations, a themed market, and exclusive shopping rewards. These attractions created a lively atmosphere that not only boosted local spending but also reinforced Hong Kong’s reputation as a vibrant and dynamic destination for tourism and culture.

The launch event was attended by prominent figures, including Raymond Kwok, Chairman and Managing Director of Sun Hung Kai Properties, alongside Christopher Kwok, the company’s Executive Director. Representatives from the Legislative Council, the Hong Kong SAR Liaison Office of the People’s Republic of China, and various District Councils also attended, underscoring the significance of this milestone event.

The celebrations highlighted the rich culture and innovative spirit of Hong Kong, positioning it as a city of endless discovery and opportunities.

Raymond Kwok said, “As a developer deeply committed to Hong Kong, SHKP has consistently taken proactive steps to support government policies. By leveraging the group’s resources and strengths, we strive to drive economic development to contribute to the growth of Hong Kong. New Town Plaza, Hong Kong’s first large-scale integrated project developed on a transit-oriented development (TOD) model, has served generations of Sha Tin residents and has been instrumental in transforming Sha Tin into the most populous district among the 18 districts in Hong Kong. With its superior and innovative facilities and services, New Town Plaza has become one of the busiest shopping malls in Hong Kong and a place for families across generations to have fun and create memorable moments there, in line with the SHKP’s spirit of ‘Building Homes with Heart’.”

He added that, in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 40th anniversary of New Town Plaza, the Group is introducing mega events to the district in response to the government’s call to boost the local economy. This includes hosting Hong Kong’s first pyrotechnic show at a shopping mall and, with the support of government departments, organising a themed market in the outdoor spaces on the third and fifth floors. These initiatives are a response to the growing demand for outdoor and family activities after the pandemic and aim to create a joyful atmosphere, stimulate spending and help our tenants attract more business. They embody Central Government’s spirit of “understanding, responding to and embracing changes”. SHKP hopes this series of events will set a precedent for flexible use of other malls’ outdoor and open spaces in the future, creating more enjoyable experiences for visitors, boosting the retail market and driving the local event economy.

A 40-Year Journey: New Town Plaza Shapes Sha Tin’s Evolution and Community Spirit

Pioneering Progress in Sha Tin

For four decades, New Town Plaza has stood as more than just a shopping mall—it is a living symbol of transformation and growth in Sha Tin and beyond. Developed by Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) in the 1980s, this ambitious project aligned with Hong Kong’s new town development plans, reflecting SHKP’s steadfast belief in the region’s potential. Opened in 1984, New Town Plaza became a cornerstone of the New Territories, with its innovative Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model setting a new standard for urban planning and community integration.

As a pioneer, New Town Plaza introduced countless firsts to Hong Kong, from record-breaking foot traffic to family-centric attractions, while becoming a vital part of daily life for residents and a magnet for tourists seeking entertainment and leisure.

A Hub of Connectivity and Innovation

Strategically located in the heart of Sha Tin and seamlessly connected to the MTR station, New Town Plaza’s impact extends beyond retail. This multi-faceted development, which includes office towers, a hotel, and residential units, has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. SHKP’s investments in upgrades have made the mall a hub of first-of-its-kind experiences, such as Hong Kong’s inaugural indoor musical fountain, Snoopy’s World theme park, and the playful Dino Park. More recently, additions like the entertainment-focused Play Park and pet-friendly Pets Park have further solidified its reputation as a destination for all ages.

A Grand Celebration: Four Decades of Excellence

To commemorate its 40th anniversary, New Town Plaza launched an extraordinary two-month celebration, starting with a lively carnival. From midday, visitors were treated to vibrant activities including live busking, face painting, magic shows, and creative workshops. The event brought the community together, with shoppers participating in hands-on crafts and enjoying anniversary-themed treats like balloons, candy floss, and popcorn.

The centerpiece of the celebration was a dazzling pyrotechnic display at Chill Park, featuring 2,024 fireworks synchronized with festive lighting and music. It was a historic first for Sha Tin, lighting up the night sky and creating unforgettable moments for thousands of attendees.

Boosting Local Spending Through Collaboration

The celebration also emphasized supporting local businesses with the “Just Buy Weeks” campaign, which runs until November 26. Over 100 brands are offering discounts of up to 80%, while special perks for Sha Tin residents, office workers, and students provide further incentives. This initiative not only enhances the festive spirit but also bolsters the local economy by driving foot traffic to the mall.

Winter Wonderland Brings Festive Cheer

As part of the anniversary celebrations, New Town Plaza has unveiled a “Winter Wonderland,” complete with a towering 13-meter Christmas tree and a 2,000-square-foot indoor ice rink that features falling snow for an enchanting skating experience. Santa Claus installations, inspired by the legendary Spirit of Sha Tin aircraft, add a nostalgic touch, creating ideal photo opportunities for families and visitors. This festive attraction will run through January 1, 2025, providing holiday magic for everyone.

Engaging the Community Through Art and Events

The 40th anniversary has also inspired a creative collaboration between New Town Plaza, local illustrator Carmen Ng, and students from schools with 40-year histories in Sha Tin. Together, they have transformed the mall into a Community Gallery, showcasing vibrant depictions of Sha Tin landmarks and the evolution of New Town Plaza. Carmen, who has a deep connection to the area, hopes the exhibit will inspire young artists to chase their dreams while fostering a sense of pride in their community.

Beyond the artistic showcase, a series of events including a Beer & Wine Carnival, outdoor yoga sessions, and live performances will continue the celebrations, culminating in a Grand Countdown Party on New Year’s Eve. Visitors will join popular idols for an evening of music and dancing to ring in 2025 in style.

A Legacy of Growth and Connection

As New Town Plaza celebrates its 40th anniversary, it stands as a symbol of innovation, community spirit, and shared progress. From its origins as a transformative development in the 1980s to its status as a cherished destination today, the mall reflects Sha Tin’s growth and vitality, bringing people together to create memories that will last a lifetime.

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