MANILA, Philippines – Hong Kong is offering a series of events and activities in an effort to lure tourists this holiday season, when Filipinos usually spend time with their families at home.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) recently kicked off its “WinterFest 2011,” an annual festival highlighted by shopping, entertainment, food and parties.

It will run until January next year.

“Whether you like shopping, dining, touring popular parks or off-the-beaten paths, Hong Kong will surely give you a blast,” HKTB said in a statement.

HKTB listed a number of events and activities that visitors can take part in this holiday season.

This list is not endorsed by abs-cbnNEWS.com.

1. Spread some love at the Statue Square, Central

Bring your date to the park to witness the beautiful Christmas tree sitting on top of the signature Tiffany Blue Box courtesy of Tiffany Co. Then, take a ride on the carousel while enjoying the carols beneath the tree. Before leaving, send a personalized postcard to your loved ones to share the holiday treasures you’ve experienced. Catch this event until January 1, 2012.

2. Slip and slide at Tsim Sha Tsui East’s Ice Wonderland

Be one of the first people who will get the chance to see and skate at the first outdoor ice skating rink in Hong Kong. Not into ice skating? The festive illuminations in Tsim Sha Tsui provide an enchanting backdrop for great photos. The Ice Wonderland is open until January 1, 2012 at UC Centenary Garden at Tsim Sha Tsui East. Tickets are available at different prices.

3. Bring your family to the all-new Toy Story Land

Disney’s Sparkling Christmas is filled with more toys and playful experiences as it opens the new Toy Story Land. Immerse yourself in the fun of the season with shopping, dining and magic-filled moments at Hong Kong Disneyland until January 2, 2012.

4. Celebrate a Victorian Christmas at Madame Tussauds

The world’s favorite idols are waiting to have their holiday snaps taken with you. A new likeness of Madame Tussauds will be there, too, celebrating her 250th birthday.

5. Indulge in the snowy, chocolaty village of Ngong Ping

Spend Christmas with your loved ones in an enchanting snowy chocolaty village, which will be open until January 2.

6. Feel the chill and thrill at Ocean Park Hong Kong

Tired of spending each Christmas rocking around the Christmas tree? Head to Ocean Park’s new Thrill Mountain, where five exciting rides and a carnival atmosphere will knock your yuletide socks off.

7. Browse for quality products at the 46th Hong Kong Brands Products Expo

Shop for Hong Kong-made products and international brands at one of the largest expos in Hong Kong with your loved one or the whole family. The expo runs until January 2 at Victoria Park, Causeway Bay.

8. Get your food fix at the 9th Hong Kong Food Festival

The 9th Hong Kong Food Festival substitutes nights of noche buena and media noche cravings as you roam around various booths offering different international and local products. The food festival will be held from December 24 to 27 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibit Center.

9. Join the countdown at the Victoria Harbour

Welcome the new year with Hong Kong locals and tourists from around the world at any area surrounding the Victoria Harbour on December 31, before midnight. Sensational pyrotechnic displays will burst out of Hong Kong’s landmark buildings, illuminating the harbor.

10. Party at the 2011 New Year’s Eve countdown carnival

Head out to Sha Tin Park for a night of merriment as local and international performers take turns in showcasing their culture by dance, music or film. As midnight comes, the carnival will have a countdown ceremony accompanied by pyrotechnics from the rooftops of Sha Tin Town Hall and Sha Tin Public Library. The festival will be on December 31 from 8:30 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.