Hong Kong will not have its usual New Year fireworks in 2026 after a deadly fire in November killed at least 161 people. The fire, the worst in the city since 1948, broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po district during building renovations. Authorities said poor-quality netting and foam boards helped the fire spread fast. Many residents lost their homes and are now living in temporary places. Instead of fireworks, the city's tourism board will organize a music show on Wednesday night. The show will feature the soft rock duo Air Supply and other singers in Central, known for its nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong. Eight famous landmarks will become giant countdown clocks with a three-minute light show at midnight. Fireworks are a big part of Hong Kong’s New Year, Lunar New Year, and National Day celebrations, attracting large crowds and tourists. Rosanna Law, the secretary for culture, sports and tourism, said the lack of fireworks will affect hotel and restaurant businesses. Hong Kong has canceled fireworks before after tragedies. These include the 2013 National Day after a boat collision killed 39 people, and the 2018 Lunar New Year after a bus crash killed 19. Fireworks were also stopped during the 2019 protests and the COVID-19 pandemic. Fireworks started in China over 2,000 years ago when people discovered that bamboo exploded with fire. The Tang dynasty monk Li Tian created the first real firecrackers by filling bamboo with gunpowder to make loud bangs and drive away evil spirits. This time, Hong Kong’s New Year celebrations will light up the sky with music and lights, not explosions.