Christmas Spirit Still Alive In A Covid-gripped City

Like millions elsewhere, people in Hong Kong are preparing to enjoy a Christmas season like no other, with social distancing regulations fundamentally changing most holiday traditions.

Bars are closed, restaurants will bring down the shutters at 6pm and a ban on public gatherings means midnight mass will be an online affair.

Many people said Covid-19 is putting a dampener on celebrations, but they are still determined to maintain the holiday spirit.

A university student called William told RTHK that parties with friends are not a good idea this year, but his family will have a small celebration at home.

He said people are not really in the mood for Christmas this year.

“When I walk past the street, you may not see that [many] Christmas decorations, as people are not in the mood of celebrating," he said.

"Not many people will come out to celebrate… We do not have parties with friends, so there is no need for us to buy gifts.”

Carol, who is a social worker, is planning a dinner gathering with her friends at her home, despite authorities’ warning to avoid such gatherings.

But she said she would be taking extra precautions, making sure everyone washes their hands and uses separate utensils.

“We cannot go to karaoke or some other party rooms, so it would be a little frustrating, but staying at home is fine with me… We do spend less money on booking party room and other places, so we can spend more on our gifts,” she said.

The social worker noted that celebrating at home is more comfortable, and they can speak freely and play games.

The pandemic has also disrupted travel plans for people who want to go back home for the holiday season, including a Swedish professional who lives in Hong Kong.

“Usually I actually go back to my home country Sweden to celebrate Christmas, but this year of course we have to do it here in Hong Kong, which is nice as well,” he said.

He said he would spend a quiet evening with his family and have dinner at home, the same way he has spent Christmas in the past.

“You know you adapt to everything, and there are ways to be happy in every situation I think… I just like to say happy holidays, and hope next year will be better.”