I was in Hong Kong during this years Chinese New Year and managed to get myself behind the scenes of Hong Kong’s largest celebration, Hong Kong Fest 2010.  It was a full scale production, broadcasted across Hong Kong with dancers and performers galore.  Guests consisted of local celebrities and people who shelled out top dollar to sit and watch the performance from premium seats before the performers moved onto a parade that went through the city.  It was an amazing production full of lights, costumes and of course a little confusion on my end (language barrier).  I wandered freely, photographing behind the scenes, performance and guests.  After the event was over I headed out to grab a drink with a friend and I was amazed and what I witnessed.  I noticed the distinct difference of how Hong Kongers celebrate the new year versus Americans.  There was practically no crazy partying or drinking.  The day/night was spent with family and tho the air was physically cool, the warmth of the new year celebration was ever present.

On my website, www.jonathanhansonphotography.com, I added an essay from the event detailing my experience.  If you have a moment stop by and take a look.