The insider guide to French May & French GourMay 2026

• The latest digital technology brings one of the world's most famous paintings, Mona Lisa, to Sha Tin

• This year's food festival focuses on the Savoie region of France with plenty of wine tastings

• French record producer DJ Snake will be taking to the stage on the Central Harbourfront

Read more: These are the tastiest French bistros in Hong Kong

The 33rd edition of French May and French GourMay 2026 celebrates Re/naissance

As we look towards another vibrant season in our city, there is one festival that consistently transforms Hong Kong into a living gallery: French May. This year’s theme, 'Re/naissance', is particularly special, blending high-tech innovation with centuries of heritage to create something truly immersive for all ages. Whether you are a gourmand, a music lover, or looking for that perfect weekend outing with the kids, here is the full feature on what’s to come.

The highlights

Meet Mona Lisa

Mona Lisa is famously 'immobile', rarely leaving the Louvre museum in Paris. However, through an immersive digital experience created by the Musée du Louvre and Grand Palais Immersif, she's coming to Sha Tin. This is more than just looking at a painting, it's a multimedia journey that lets you step into the world of Leonardo da Vinci.

May 1 to July 27, free admission, Hong Kong Heritage Musuem, 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin.

Music by the harbour: DJ Snake Live

For those who love a high-energy vibe, Parisian DJ, record producer and global superstar DJ Snake is hosting a massive open-air party at the Central Harbourfront. He'll be joined by the Higher Brothers for a night of electronic, hip-hop and Canto-disco beats againsty the stunning waterside backdrop.

May 8, tickets from $680 via Cityline and Ticketflap.

French GourMay: A taste of the Alps

Every year, the food portion of the festival focuses on a different region of France. This year it's the turn of Savoy, an exquisite food and wine region in the French Alps. Think high-altitude wines, purity, and mountain-fresh flavours that pair perfectly with our local dining scene. The best of the region will be showcased across Hong Kong by establishments partnering with French GourMay. Look out for Chef Ambassador Richard Ekkebus, three-Michelin-starred chef of Mandarin Oriental The Landmark's Amber restaurant, who will be guiding diners through Savoy's refreshing terroirs. And don't miss the pop-up markets for artisinal cheeses and gourmet treats at Central Market (April 30 to May 3) and Food Parc (May 28 to 31).

French GourMay, across Hong Kong, head online for a full list of bars and restaurants partnering with the event this year.

Performance & Arts: What's on the stage and screen

The performing arts lineup this year is exceptionally diverse, offering everything from grand classical productions to intimate, avant-garde experiences. At the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, you can catch the timeless passion of Bizet’s Carmen (May 7 to 10), or witness the intersection of movement and ink in the dance poem In Between, inspired by Wu Guanzhong’s odyssey (May 22 to 24). For those who prefer a more contemporary or immersive setting, Tai Kwun’s Parade Ground will host VOÛTE, a captivating blend of circus and theatre running between May 8 and 17. If your interests lean toward the silver screen, the French May Cinema Programme will take over the Broadway Circuit and other select cinemas from May 19 to June 3, showcasing the best of French filmmaking.

Why this year is unmissable

• Heritage meets tech: From digital art to immersive theatre, the festival uses modern technology to make "old" art feel exciting and relevant for the next generation.

• Beyond the map: Most of us know Bordeaux or Burgundy, but focusing on the Savoie region offers a rare chance to taste rare grape varieties and mountain-inspired dishes right here in HK.

• A 'one-stop' experience: With the new OpenRice partnership, browsing Savoy-themed menus and earning 'Rice Dollars' makes participating in the food festival easier than ever.

  
  

French May 2026 is truly a celebration of 'Renaissance' - a rebirth of culture that feels fresh, fun, and accessible. Our advice? Grab your tickets for the immersive Mona Lisa exhibit early, and spend your weekends exploring the Savoie wine tastings. It’s the closest thing to a trip to the French Alps without the 13-hour flight!

For more details and booking, visit frenchmay.com and frenchgourmay.com.