Clockenflap 2024 in Hong Kong

Clockenflap is Hong Kong’s largest and longest-running outdoor music and arts festival. Known for its vibrant mix of international and local music, art installations, and various cultural activities, the festival is a highlight of the city's annual event calendar. Drawing in tens of thousands of attendees each year, Clockenflap offers an eclectic experience that has grown in both scale and reputation since its inception in 2008.

Activities and What to Expect

As one of Asia's top ten festivals, Clockenflap promises a diverse range of performances and activities for attendees. The festival’s main attraction is its extensive music lineup, which historically has featured international headliners such as The Chemical Brothers, Sigur Rós, and M.I.A., along with local and regional acts. As the organizers suggest, festival-goers can expect a varied program blending genres from indie and electronic to pop and alternative rock.

Beyond music, Clockenflap also showcases visual art installations, street performances, and a variety of other entertainment options. These include theatre, comedy, cabaret shows, and even interactive experiences like DJ workshops and robot-making classes. For families, there is a dedicated kids’ area offering child-friendly activities.

Schedule and Program

Clockenflap 2024 will take place over three days, with the festival kicking off on Friday, November 29, at 5 pm and running until 10:30 pm. On Saturday and Sunday, the festival starts earlier, at noon, and also wraps up at 10:30 pm each night. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to explore the grounds, grab food from local vendors, and enjoy the numerous art displays before the main music performances begin.

Lineup

The lineup for Clockenflap 2024 includes a mix of international and local artists across multiple genres. Headliners feature Jack White (US), Suede (UK), and Jamie xx (UK). Other notable performers include St. Vincent (US), Glass Animals (UK), AIR (FR), Porter Robinson (US), and Ibrahim Maalouf (FR/LB). Artists from Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and more round out the diverse offerings, creating a dynamic musical experience over the three-day festival.

Tickets

Clockenflap typically offers a range of ticket options, including single-day and weekend passes. General admission for the 3-day weekend starts at 1,990 Hong Kong dollars (HKD), while single-day tickets for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are priced at 1,280 Hong Kong dollars each. For attendees under 18, weekend passes start at HKD1,590, with single-day tickets starting at HKD880.

Accessibility, Parking and Camping

For those with mobility disabilities, Clockenflap strives to create an inclusive environment. Most of the venue is flat and wheelchair-friendly, though the festival staff advises attendees using powered mobility devices to seek permission ahead of time. Public transportation is highly recommended due to the lack of parking at the venue. There are no camping facilities on-site, but a wide range of hotels are conveniently located nearby.

Location and Infrastructure

Clockenflap 2024 will be held at the Central Harbourfront Event Space, offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour. This location is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest MTR station is Hong Kong Station, and visitors can follow signage towards the Central Star Ferry Pier to reach the festival site. Alternatively, attendees can take ferries from nearby piers, such as Pier 7 for Star Ferry, or use buses and taxis, although congestion is expected.

The festival’s proximity to Hong Kong’s central business district means that attendees can easily explore nearby attractions, including the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, which is adjacent to the event space. For those looking to extend their stay, the area offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and cultural sites within walking distance.

Festival History

Clockenflap was founded in 2008 by Jay Forster, Mike Hill, and Justin Sweeting with the goal of promoting Hong Kong’s music, arts, and film scene. Over the years, it has grown from a modest gathering of 1,500 attendees at a site known as Cyberport to a major international event drawing over 60,000 people. Originally focused on nurturing the local indie music scene, the festival has since broadened its scope, attracting world-famous artists and performers.