Best things to do in Hong Kong in April

April is set to be one of Hong Kong’s biggest months this year, as the city welcomes internationally renowned DJs, boundary-pushing artists and the return of the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens.  

There’s plenty of springtime fun no shortage of things to do in Hong Kong this April, whether you’re donning Pottinger Street’s finest costumes in the South Stand for Rugby Sevens or dancing your heart out to Tiesto’s hits at Creamfields. Across the city, you’ll also find opportunities to bask in the aesthetic excellence of artistic pioneers like Zao Wou-Ki and Katharina Grosse, as well as promising local artists.  

Break out your calendar and pencil in some of the best things to do this month.  

Scrum through the South Stand at the Rugby Sevens

Following the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens’ return last November, the now restriction-free tournament is back in full force as one of the best April events in Hong Kong – though you’re still likely to see a fair share of masks of the superhero sort. As part of the World Rugby Sevens Men’s and Women’s series, 28 teams will face off at Hong Kong Stadium as pitch side fans roar them. 

Amid the blare of Come on Eileen, Hey Baby and other classic Sevens songs, you’ll find one of Hong Kong’s biggest fancy dress parties breaking out in the South Stand: an adults-only part of the stadium which always promises a fun time. Kick-off is on March 31, with the matches culminating in a nail-biting final on April 2.  

Party with Calvin Harris at Creamfields

If the Sevens isn’t your style, join the ravers at Central Harbourfront for Creamfields : an electronic music festival imported from the UK. This year, big names such as Calvin Harris, Tiesto, MK, and The Chainsmokers will get the crowds moving at the outdoor festival over April 1-2. 

Besides blockbuster DJs such as Above and Beyond and John Summit (in his Hong Kong debut), there’ll be opportunities to discover your next favourite underground EDM act across its packed stages. With a stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour and Tsim Sha Tsui’s light show behind you, it’ll be a festival to remember for years to come.  

Swing by the Palace of Versailles

The Hong Kong Heritage Museum will get a Baroque makeover this April, as a digital exhibition transforms its rooms into the Palace of Versailles. Using detailed projections of the palace’s architecture, sound and even special scents, guests will be immersed in the palace’s Hall of Mirrors and gilded drawing rooms throughout the Virtually Versailles exhibition. 

Want to explore its sprawling gardens? Hop on a special bicycle and cycle through panoramic views of its manicured lawns virtually. Or don a pair of VR goggles to see the palace’s lavish art collection up close. Running from April 19 to July 9, it’s one of the biggest highlights of the French May Arts Festival which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

Get the giggles with Jim Gaffigan

Grammy-nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan is set to bring his brand of observational comedy to Hong Kong on April 3, following his star turns on projects such as Luca, Bob’s Burgers and his recent Netflix stand-up special Comedy Monster.

For one night only, Gaffigan will stop by KITEC’s stage with a new set from his Dark Pale Tour. Given that he’s set to star in a slew of upcoming projects including films like Peter Pan, Unfrosted and the HBO Max show Full Circle, you’ll have bragging rights that you saw him live when they eventually drop. Book your tickets through HKTicketing here .  

Gallery hop through the city

While Art Basel concluded in March, the major art festival will have a knock-on effect on this month’s cultural line-up. From local artist Fatina Kong’s eerie urban landscapes in her show ‘Time Comes in Different Colours ’ to the acid daydream canvases of Giulio Malinveri and Anastasiya Parvanova at ‘The Magic Gate ’, galleries across Hong Kong Island will be filled to the brim with stunning pieces. 

Chinese-French abstractionist Zao Wou-ki's work will lead the group exhibition L’eternite until April 16 at Villepin, while artist Katharina Grosse’s dynamic show Touching How and Why and Where will give the Gagosian a rainbow makeover. Blue Lotus Gallery will also host a neon love letter to the city with their exhibition The Streets of Hong Kong , which focuses on intimate views around town and runs until April 16.