HK$100m Funded Festival Debuts at AWE Waterfront

The Festival of Connoisseurs, a luxury festival supported by a HK$100 million government fund, has debuted at the AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) Waterfront in Hong Kong. The event, which took place from November 4 to 6, offered a unique exhibition experience with yachts, prestige cars, jewellery, and art.

The festival was organised by Informa Markets and marked the first use of the AWE Waterfront, a new setting for exhibitions that includes a dedicated pier. The construction of the AWE Waterfront was led by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) in collaboration with AWE.

The Festival of Connoisseurs preparation took approximately a year, with the result being a “sea-and-land dual-stage” format that gave visitors different ways to explore the festival. Along the waterfront, visitors could board yachts, examine their design and craftsmanship, and meet brand representatives. Luxury cars and dining experiences added to the outdoor offering.

The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau spearheaded the government fund to attract large-scale, distinctive international exhibitions to Hong Kong. The construction process and safety testing of the AWE Waterfront were completed in just three weeks, a notable achievement given the complexity of the project.

## What it means The debut of the Festival of Connoisseurs at the AWE Waterfront marks a significant investment in Hong Kong's exhibition industry. The event showcases the city's ability to host large-scale, distinctive international exhibitions, and the AWE Waterfront provides a unique and versatile venue for future events. With its dedicated pier and outdoor exhibition space, the AWE Waterfront is poised to become a major player in Hong Kong's exhibition scene.

The Festival of Connoisseurs is not just an exhibition, but an experience that brings together luxury brands and enthusiasts. The event's success is a testament to the power of collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and event organisers. As Hong Kong continues to develop its exhibition industry, the AWE Waterfront is likely to play a key role in attracting new and exciting events to the city.