Lunar New Year visitors are expected to grow 7.1% to 660,000 this year, the Tourism Board says. The annual holiday, from February 9 to 12, will be highlighted by the 2005 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade at the Tamar site on the 9th.

The board's Executive Director Clara Chong said this year's parade has "Kaleidorama" as its theme. Four segments will focus on the core strengths of Hong Kong - "Glitter" to display the city's dazzling colours and festive lights, "Culture & Traditions" to demonstrate the array of Chinese provincial celebrations and customs, "Lifestyle" to highlight the fascinating fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, and "Entertainment" to showcase the many events and activities catering to visitors' different tastes.

There are 41 participating groups in the parade, comprising 12 floats, and 16 international and 13 local performing groups.

300,000 expected

Ms Chong said the event may attract a record 300,000 spectators, and more local residents will be encouraged to spend the holiday season in the city, thereby boosting local consumption.

The event will be televised live on TVB Jade Channel between 8pm and 9.30pm and will also be broadcast on the Mainland and overseas. Last year, the global publicity value of the parade exceeded $100 million.

The board has published a 2005 Chinese New Year Lai See of Amazing Offers that includes offers and special privileges by 39 merchants accredited under the Quality Tourism Services scheme, covering 340 retail and dining outlets in Hong Kong.