For many, Happy Wednesday at Happy Valley Racecourse is as much a Hong Kong icon as trams, the Star Ferry and The Peak. The 2024/25 racing season took the experience to new heights, with an unmatched lineup of entertainment that would rival any major festival – all alongside the thrill of world-class racing.

With a new vision for the Club to become a global sports entertainment brand, and with a thrilling new season about to begin, we revisit last year’s most electrifying Happy Wednesday moments – with even bigger excitement ahead.

Caption: Getting the party started at the Music Festival

Music Festival
Wrapping up the 2024/25 racing season, a five-week summer music festival – with over 26,000 merrymakers in attendance – transformed Happy Wednesday into a party hub showcasing the best beats from almost every genre, while refreshing iced cocktails and slushies flowed from themed food trucks. Acts included the incredible vocal talents of MsLolo and the soulful R&B of Katt Rockwell, acclaimed Australian ABBA tribute band BABBA and Natalia D, who belted renditions of pop favourites and global hits. The 2024/25 Season Finale on 16 July featured the infectious Latin beats of the vocal and dance sensation Rechelle Mansour, joined by an ensemble of samba dancers.

Caption: Greeters in dirndl and lederhosen welcomed revellers at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest
Bavarian cheer, beats and beer were the themes for Oktoberfest at Happy Wednesday, where the excitement of horse racing met the high energy atmosphere of Germany’s legendary beer halls – and we can’t wait for its return this October. Revellers raised their steins and danced the night away with music and performances from The Young Bucks, German folk band Die Nortenhobler and Schuhplatter Dance. From the tapping of the first beer to the Pretzel Toss challenge, Happy Wednesday racegoers can always rely on an Oktoberfest like no other.

Caption: Racegoers enjoyed cosy drinks on a chill winter’s night

Winter Wonderland
During the holiday season, racegoers stepped into an enchanting Winter Wonderland, where a magical fusion of festive spirit and the thrill of racing filled the air. There was music from live band OnPoint, while Nutcracker dancers spread holiday cheer and wonder. Signature winter warmers included hot chocolate with marshmallows, gingerbread hot chocolate and soothing hot toddies to accompany the riveting action on the track.

Caption: It was fireworks at the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship

LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship
Each year, the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship in December draws global racing fans to Happy Valley Racecourse to witness some of the world’s top jockeys grace the stage. At the same time, it’s Happy Wednesday’s exhilarating vibe at its best – from the opening pyrotechnics display to the jockeys’ parade, the trackside action to the lineup of live entertainment keeping spirits lifted all evening. Stay tuned for this year’s extravaganza, set to be headlined by the international pop group Now United and its newest Hong Kong member. The show will be the group’s penultimate performance at the Club during their stay in Hong Kong as part of the Club’s strategic partnership with XIX Entertainment.

Caption: International vocal and dance star Rechelle Mansour

Neon Nights
Happy Wednesday’s Neon Nights took place in March and April, celebrating the vibrant traditions of different global communities, with Hong Kong as its hub. Themed parties dazzled racegoers, from the highly anticipated St. Patrick's Day with its festive atmosphere and captivating Celtic tunes to Japan Nights brimming with tasty Japanese delicacies and stunning yukata photo opportunities, Korean Nights with an explosion of K-pop culture and more. Partygoers also had the chance to catch Rechelle Mansour on stage with her perfectly danceable soundtrack. Keep an eye out for her anticipated return when the next Happy Wednesday makes its comeback.

Click here to learn more about Happy Wednesday and follow us on Instagram @hkjcentertainment for the latest updates.