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HONG KONG, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) said on Tuesday that the signature "Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations" will go online due to the continuing COVID-19 epidemic.

It will be the first time for the event to be held online and everyone will be able to count down to the New Year in the comfort of their home using their smartphones or computers, the HKTB said in a statement.

On Dec. 31, the HKTB's website and social media platforms will begin showing a live countdown clock at 11:00 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. respectively.

Once the clock strikes midnight, a two-minute video featuring views of the Victoria Harbor and landmarks of Hong Kong will follow, along with festive greetings sending blessings to the world, according to the HKTB.