Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the Swire Properties White Christmas Street Fair 2025 today (December 11):

Tim (Chief Executive of the Swire Properties, Mr Tim Blackburn), Tammy (Editor-in-Chief of the South China Morning Post, Ms Tammy Tam), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good evening. First of all, a big thank you, Tim, for your invitation to me for this year's White Christmas Street Fair at Taikoo Place. 

     The White Christmas Street Fair 2024 was in fact one of the first few events that I attended after my appointment as the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism this time last year. I recalled it was a very nice event in which I talked to enthusiastic young presenters, tried different Christmas delicacies, and appreciated the heartwarming festive décor all through the Fair. It is still a fond memory.  

     So here I am attending this Fair again, this year with the added intention of sending the true Christmas message of Peace and Hope to all of you who are here today and to all Hong Kong fellow citizens, especially those who are braving the hardship brought by the Tai Po fire. I know that we will observe a moment of silence later on. Aside from paying tribute to the victims and sending silent regards to all affected, I hope that, if it is amenable to you, during the silence you could also pray for peace at heart and light of hope for everyone in Hong Kong.

     Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, who, according to the Bible, brought the hope of salvation to earth. Whether or not you are a Christian, Christmas is also a time to reconnect with what is truly important. This year's White Christmas Street Fair, which is a part of the Hong Kong Tourism Board's Hong Kong WinterFest, holds a special meaning for all of us. Now in its 13th year, it is much more than just a festive event. It embraces elements of the Christmas values, such as love, peace, hope and the importance of coming together as a community to share meaningful moments.  

     The theme of this year's fair, "Colour the Season - Lights of Hope", is timely. Inspired by Hong Kong's iconic neon lights, it brings us nostalgic feelings, allows us to relive childhood scenes, and reminds us that light in different colours and formats is all around us. As we gradually come out of the haze of the fire, the Fair gives us a very good opportunity to go back to a familiar atmosphere and to take our little ones, or bring bigger friends, to experience a moment of ease and comfort. So, I do encourage everyone here to spread the news of the Fair so that those who could use a drop of light at heart could come and join us.

     I would like to say a big "thank you" to the Swire Properties for your generosity and dedication to supporting those in need. As Tim alluded to just now, on top of the corporate donations, the proceeds from on-site activities, along with a portion of sales at the retail and F&B (food and beverage) booths, will go to Operation Santa Claus to support a range of NGOs (non-governmental organisations). What's more, the Swire Properties will match every dollar raised with a dedicated contribution to the Tai Po relief effort. This thoughtful contribution truly embodies the spirit of Christmas - spreading love, hope and care to those in need, and making the Street Fair even more meaningful and special. 

     At the same time, the Hong Kong Tourism Board's Christmas Wonderland Central at Statue Square is another highlight of the Hong Kong WinterFest. There, a stunning 20-metre Christmas tree shines and a brand new Immersive Lights Show is on, every night throughout Christmas - another chance for us to take a moment to appreciate the beauty and creativity that surrounds us and to feel a sense of calm and joy.  

     My gratitude again to Swire for the invitation, and I am pleased to be a part of this meaningful evening. May I wish everyone a peaceful Christmas filled with love. 

     Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, December 11, 2025
Issued at HKT 18:52

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