Government’s Mid-Autumn light show panned over stench and poor execution

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 27, 2026

The Hong Kong Drainage Services Department hosted a Mid-Autumn Festival light show at Yuen Long Nullah, which attracted large crowds but faced criticism over unpleasant odors and unclear visual displays. The event aimed to combine art and education by highlighting flood prevention and environmental improvements, though some attendees questioned its overall effectiveness and presentation quality.

A government-organized Mid-Autumn Festival light show held at the Yuen Long Nullah in Hong Kong faced mixed reactions after its opening night, with many attendees criticizing the event for unpleasant odors and perceived poor presentation.

The two-day event, titled the “Yuen Long Flood Barrier and Nullah Improvement Scheme – Mid-Autumn Light Show,” was launched by the Drainage Services Department as part of an effort to transform the Yuen Long Nullah area into a large-scale art exhibition space. It took place on the evenings of Friday and Saturday along the nullah section between the MTR Long Ping station and On Ning Road. Attendance required prior registration with the government.

Despite drawing sizable crowds on its first night, social media users voiced dissatisfaction with several aspects of the show. Some attendees reported a foul smell emanating from the open-air storm drainage channel, impacting their experience. Others questioned the design approach, noting that projected images were displayed on white boards placed along one side of the canal, resulting in unclear visuals and limiting viewing angles. One commenter suggested that hanging a large white cloth over the canal might have improved image clarity and coverage.

Critics also pointed out the lack of elevated viewing platforms, which made it difficult for spectators to fully appreciate the downward projections. However, some attendees praised parts of the display, highlighting the colorful projections of lanterns, rabbits, and flowers as visually appealing.

The Drainage Services Department described the show as a combination of large-scale projection, animation, and lighting effects centered on the theme of reunion, in line with Mid-Autumn Festival traditions. According to promotional materials, the event aimed to engage the public with light-and-shadow storytelling that illustrates the flood prevention capabilities, environmental improvements, and future vision for the revitalized nullah.

Though some viewers questioned the event's cost and value, the department maintained that the light show served as both an artistic presentation and an educational platform about local infrastructure enhancements. Requests for further comment from the department were made but not immediately returned.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.