EW Issue 6 December 2025 - January 2026 | Page 25

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multi-purpose indoor arena with a 20,000 audience capacity and will expand exhibition space to 100,000sqm. This will enhance AWE and the destination’ s capacity to host mega-scale events.
Exclusive Hong Kong experiences on site and beyond Cultural Corner at AWE
To immerse delegates in Hong Kong’ s vibrant culture, a dedicated‘ Cultural Corner’ was set up at the venue, offering an immersive experience centred around three key themes: culinary delights, artisanal crafts, and cultural experiences.
At Cultural Corner, each delegate was offered exclusive event-themed welcome gifts, including souvenirs by a popular local illustrator. These crafted mementos added a touch of local artistic flair to the event.
During a networking lunch, master chefs hosted live demonstrations, sharing secrets behind making dim sum. The set-up drew inspiration from Hong Kong ' s vibrant lifestyle, creating a unique experience through local cuisine and creativity.
Extended cultural experience outside AWE Congress Dinner at M + Museum, 20 November 2025, was the first time an UFI gala dinner had taken place at Asia’ s
premier musuem of contemporary visual culture – M + Musuem.
Delegates enjoyed an unforgettable evening featuring immersive experiences that blended neon art, nostalgic snacks, cross-genre music, and breathtaking panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.
Notably, 2025 also marked the 85th anniversary of martial arts legend Bruce Lee’ s birth. To commemorate this occasion, AWE specially invited the Hong Kong Dance Company to present an exclusive preview performance from their dance performance“ Kung Fu Artistry – Bruce Lee ' s No Way as Way.“
AWE organised an antique tram party for delegates
From Tram Party to Lan Kwai Fong On 21 November, the AWE organised a grand finale, inviting participants to join an exclusive antique tram party. In the relaxed evening breeze, attendees were able to sip fine wine, immerse themselves in Hong Kong’ s rich history and cultural heritage, and experience the city’ s dynamic urban
Left: A dance performance inspired by Bruce Lee ' s martial arts spirit and life philosophy
Far left: DimSum demonstration from AWE Chef and Mahjong experience at Cultural Corner
development while soaking in the vibrant energy of its nightlife aboard an open-top tram.
After the Tram Party, the tour headed to Lan Kwai Fong – Hong Kong’ s most iconic nightlife district, famed for its festive spirit, bustling streets, and eclectic bars. A prime open air area was reserved exclusively for UFI delegates, who were able to mingle, savour freshly crafted canapés and fine wines, and enjoy lively interactions with locals.
Demonstration of bleisure trend This UFI journey perfectly illustrated the rising bleisure trend, with four post-congress tours inspiring participants to extend their stays and discover more of the city’ s rich offerings. These curated experiences invited attendees to explore the city beyond the usual meeting venues. In turn, organisers gained fresh opportunities and ideas for enhancing future MICE programmes, thanks to a deeper and more immersive appreciation of Hong Kong’ s unique cultural landscape.
Together, these experiences showcased the seamless synergy between MICE and tourism, aligning with the Hong Kong Government’ s“+ Tourism” strategy. Delegates departed with not only valuable business insights but also a renewed appreciation for Hong Kong’ s spirit – a city where work truly meets wonder.
CEO of AsiaWorld-Expo, Irene Chan had the final word:“ This year was a truly special one as we celebrated UFI’ s 100th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of AsiaWorld-Expo. Together with UFI, we curated a series of cultural experiences that celebrate Hong Kong’ s vibrant traditions through a modern lens. From nostalgic local treats to original artwork by Hong Kong illustrators, every detail was designed to immerse our guests in the city’ s distinctive spirit. At AsiaWorld- Expo, we’ re proud to create memorable moments that foster rich dialogue, collaboration, and shared inspiration among our global industry peers.” EW
www. exhibitionworld. co. uk
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