No snow, but White Christmas Street Fair brings festive cheer to Hong Kong in support of Operation Santa Claus
- Event held by Swire Properties in Quarry Bay transformed street into garden with Christmas flowers made from old materials, including Cathay uniforms
- Annual fair has raised more than HK$7 million for OSC since its inauguration in 2013
Hong Kong might not have treetops glistening with snow, but those dreaming of a white Christmas in the city were still able to enjoy a few merry days at a festive market supporting charity and sustainability – with Santa Claus in action.
The White Christmas Street Fair, held by Swire Properties from December 1 to 4, transformed Tong Chong Street in Quarry Bay into a garden filled with 5,000 upcycled Christmas flowers made from old materials, including Cathay Pacific cabin crew uniforms and Swire Hotels’ bedsheets.
Themed “Bloom & Beyond”, the community bazaar raised money for Operation Santa Claus (OSC), an annual fundraising campaign run by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK. Marking its 35th anniversary this year, OSC has collected HK$353 million (US$45 million) to support the local community through 323 charitable projects since its launch in 1988. Fifteen projects are being funded this year.
The annual Street Fair has raised more than HK$7 million for OSC since its inauguration in 2013.
Swire Properties chairman Guy Bradley said this year’s event held special significance as the company was commemorating its 50th anniversary.
“Throughout these five decades, we’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with our local communities, through good and bad times – and we’ve all been through some challenges over the last few years,” he said at the opening ceremony on December 1.
“So to be able to celebrate this milestone here tonight, and raise funds for a good cause, is particularly special for us.”
