"Thousands of visitors gathered to watch nearly 20 giant helium balloons float against the Victoria Harbour skyline during the 'Merry Balloon Parade' in Hong Kong on Sunday. Footage shows giant character balloons, including Garfield, Peppa Pig, SpongeBob SquarePants, the Care Bears, and PAW Patrol, floating along the waterfront as crowds lined up to take photos. Families and children are seen holding balloons and posing for pictures as visitors enjoy the festive atmosphere under clear skies along Victoria Harbour. “The atmosphere was great. It wasn’t just people from Hong Kong; there were lots of tourists, adults and children, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves,” spectator Mr Heung said. “It was very novel. I came with my wife and child. We saw many familiar cartoon characters, such as Peppa Pig and Garfield, and also Hong Kong specialities like the pandas from Ocean Park,” Mr Heung added. Another visitor, John, said he brought his family to enjoy the day. “We’re very happy, very nice weather. Lots of fun, lots of things to do,” he said. The parade marked the grand finale of the Merry Balloon Hong Kong winter celebration, transforming the harbourfront into a colourful carnival atmosphere as families and visitors gathered to watch iconic cartoon characters drift past. The 'Merry Balloon Parade' was a one-time event that capped off the 'Merry Balloon Hong Kong' festival, held from November 24, 2025, to January 11, 2026. The festival also featured a giant inflatable park and light shows throughout the city."