The excitement is palpable as the Hong Kong International 7-a-side Rugby Tournament kicks off this weekend at the newly completed Kai Tak Sports Park. Running from March 28 to March 30, 2025, this annual event promises thrilling rugby action combined with vibrant entertainment and community engagement.
Cathay Pacific is set to make a spectacular entrance on the final day of the tournament, March 30, when an A350 aircraft will soar over Victoria Harbour around 4 PM, paying homage to the centenary of the historic Kai Tak Airport. This aerial tribute is expected to evoke nostalgia among locals who fondly remember the days when planes flew low over the city, creating a unique skyline experience.
The opening ceremony on March 28 will feature a dazzling laser show that combines iconic Hong Kong imagery with dynamic projections and energetic music to set the stage for the matches ahead. As the tournament progresses, spectators can look forward to a closing ceremony that will light up the night sky with 25-meter-high fireworks launched from 28 different points around the stadium. This grand finale is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Adding to the festive atmosphere will be the South Korean cheerleading team, the Kia Tigers, which includes seven talented members such as team leader Kim Hanna. They will perform their famous cheerleading dances throughout the tournament, aiming to energize the crowd and enhance the overall experience for fans. Their unique choreography, particularly the viral "three-strike dance," is expected to be a highlight of the event.
Music lovers will also be treated to an impressive lineup at the South Stage inside the main stadium. The stage will feature renowned DJ Pete Tong, who will perform on March 29 at 6:35 PM, along with GALA, known for her hit "Freed from Desire," who will take the stage earlier that day at 2:30 PM. The British rock band Kaiser Chiefs will close out the musical performances on March 30 at 4:40 PM, promising a fantastic atmosphere filled with live music.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the rugby culture, the Hong Kong Sevens Fan Village will be open to ticket holders. Located in the multi-purpose event area on the east side of Kai Tak Sports Park, the Fan Village will feature a large screen for live match broadcasts, over 30 food and beverage stalls, bars, shops, and a dedicated children's area. This vibrant hub is designed to create a memorable experience for fans of all ages.
Throughout the tournament, 15 local bands and six DJs will perform at the Fan Village stage, providing a continuous flow of entertainment. Notable performances will include appearances by familiar names in the Hong Kong music scene, such as Red Stripe and Helium 3, alongside DJ Ben Cullen, who is well-known in rugby circles.
Fans will also have the opportunity to meet their favorite rugby players, including members of the China Hong Kong men's and women's sevens teams. Scheduled meet-and-greet sessions will allow fans to take photos and get autographs from their sporting heroes. Additionally, the tournament ambassadors, including rugby legends like Waisale Serevi and DJ Forbes, will be present to interact with fans and share their experiences.
The Hong Kong International 7-a-side Rugby Tournament is not just about the matches; it’s a celebration of community and culture. The event is part of a broader tourism initiative aimed at revitalizing the city following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hong Kong government has launched its "Super March" tourism promotions, which include this rugby event alongside the prestigious Art Basel fair, both taking place from March 28 to March 30. This strategic move aims to attract visitors and stimulate the local economy.
As of 2024, visitor arrivals in Hong Kong rebounded to 68% of the record levels seen in 2018, signaling a positive trend for the tourism sector. Preliminary figures for January and February 2025 showed a 7% year-on-year increase in visitor numbers, with a notable 20% surge in non-mainland Chinese visitors. The Rugby Sevens event has already sold a record number of tickets, including all suites and corporate boxes, indicating strong corporate interest and demand.
Hotel bookings during the tournament period have exceeded normal growth rates by 20%, reflecting the event's appeal to both local and international visitors. The success of the Rugby Sevens is complemented by the concurrent Art Basel fair, which has seen a remarkable 130% year-on-year growth, driven by strong participation from East and Southeast Asian countries.
As the tournament unfolds, the atmosphere in Hong Kong is electric, with businesses in areas like Lan Kwai Fong reporting an uptick in activity, with an increase of 8% to 10% in March compared to February. This resurgence in tourism and local engagement is a promising sign as the city continues to recover and thrive.
With thrilling rugby matches, spectacular performances, and a vibrant fan experience, the Hong Kong International 7-a-side Rugby Tournament is set to be an unforgettable event. Fans are encouraged to join the festivities and create lasting memories during this exciting weekend of sports and entertainment.
