Your ultimate guide to surviving Hong Kong Rugby Sevens
Get set for a fabulous three-day weekend of rugby action on and off the pitchHong Kong Rugby Sevens falls on April 5 to 7 this year. The marquee rugby event has been attracting sports fans from around the world, but the three days of drinking and debauchery are also for those looking to have a good time. As the rugby madness descends into Hong Kong, we have some tips and tricks to help you navigate the busy weekend, so get your costumes sorted and get ready to fight your way through the crowds.
How to get tickets
Tickets are often hard to get hold of. Sales usually begin in January through a public ballot system and they are always sold out almost right away. When purchasing tickets through the ballot, a three-day pass will set you back approximately $1,950.
Tickets are available on Viagogo, although the prices are often marked up as it is the only authorised website for re-sales. Alternatively, search on Facebook groups using searches such as ‘Hong Kong Sevens Buy and Sell’.
Rugby clubs often receive a selection of tickets for their members, and corporate sponsors, such as Cathay Pacific or HSBC, will have a selection of tickets or deals available for employees – knowing the right people always helps!
How to get to the stadium
Rugby Sevens takes place at Hong Kong Stadium in Causeway Bay. Be there in the early hours of the morning to secure a seat in the stadium. Once it fills up the stadium operates a one-in-one-out system. Don’t be left queuing when you could be enjoying the on-pitch action inside.
The easiest route is to take public transport. Take the MTR to Causeway Bay station and leave through Exit F, which is a 15-minute walk to the stadium. A number of bus routes also pass through Causeway Bay, click here for route information.
Where to buy costumes
Most people wear “normal” clothing on
What should I bring
Try and bring as little as possible, but do not forget your ID card – you will need proof of identity to enter the stadium grounds. As you will be staying outdoors all day, water, sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses are always useful to have in the bag. We recommend using a bum bag as it is more practical and easy to store your essential belongings. Remember to bring at least $500 along as ATMs are quite scarce inside the stadium.
Choose your stand wisely
South
The typical South stand-goes will most likely be aged between 18-35, costume-clad, beer in hand and in the thick of the infamous party scene. If you’re planning on enjoying the South stand atmosphere, fancy dress is recommended as you’re likely to have
North
Although this stand is smaller, often a large portion is taken up by die-hard Fiji supporters, serious players will also watch from here. It has a lively-yet-tame atmosphere.
East and West
Otherwise known as the family or under 18’s stand, this family-orientated area is where you’ll find the
After parties
HSBC Sevens Village and After Party
There is no need to go anywhere once the final whistle is blown. In the evening, the Sevens Village comes alive with crowds looking for a place to continue the party. Conveniently located just opposite the stadium, head straight over and enjoy a pitcher of beer, then rock the night away to the tune of live bands and DJs. The Sevens Village is open to the public for free.
Lan Kwai Fong
As if anyone needs an excuse to hit the streets of Lan Kwai Fong. For the week running up and during the Rugby Sevens weekend, Lan Kwai Fong will be lined with game booths, beer stands, there is even a parade!
Safety and support
As you can imagine, it will be huge crowds (and a lot of booze) all weekend, but there are police and paramedics on site stationed at different points around the stadium. Look after your belongings, you don’t want to be losing anything valuable inside the vast grounds. Pace your drinking and have fun!
Feature image courtesy of Hong Kong Rugby Sevens.
