Hong Kong’s annual Wine and Dine Festival has drawn more than 160,000 people, with average daily visits up 30 per cent from last year, according to the organiser.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) said on Monday that visitors to the four-day event were also more willing to spend this year, following the conclusion of the festival a day earlier at the Central Harbourfront Event Space.

“The average daily tasting token number increased by close to 40 per cent compared with last year,” it said.

Each tasting token costs HK$25 (US$3.20) and is used for purchasing drinks and food at the event.

“Merchants were also happy with the sales, some noting that business increased by 40 to 50 per cent from last year, and attributing the increase in participation and spending ambience to the extended event hours,” HKTB added.

The event recorded a higher footfall than the board’s expected 150,000 visitors, benefiting from extended opening hours that lasted until midnight for the first time this year.