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Now here’s an excellent way to ring in the Year of the Horse – with a pony encounter! On March 7, 8, and 15, Tai Kwun will welcome real-life Shetland ponies to its Parade Ground for a family-friendly animal meet-and-greet and unique photo-taking moments!
‘Ponies on Parade’ represents a callback to Tai Kwun’s past life as the Central Police Station, when horses still had a presence on the premises as steeds for mounted coppers. Although the archival photographs show that Shetland ponies were not actually part of the lineup, it still represents a full-circle moment for equestrian activity at Tai Kwun, reimagining it as a gathering place between humans and horses once more.
Not much has been shared about the individual Shetland ponies themselves, how many there will be for the three days, or which stable they are from, but what has been announced is that the meet-and-greet experience will be reserved for ticketed guests. ‘Ponies on Parade’ will take place on March 7 (11.30am-3pm), 8 (11am-3pm), and 15 (11am-3pm) at the Parade Ground at Tai Kwun, and attendees can purchase their tickets ($80 for two persons) online to secure a meet‑and‑greet experience and photo moments with a Shetland pony, plus a $50 Tai Kwun shopping and dining e‑voucher. Walk-ins are available as well at $50 for two persons, but they are subject to availability (if there are any tickets left after online bookings, that is) and the walk-in price does not include a Tai Kwun e-voucher.
Also, think twice before sneaking in an apple thinking you’ll get to feed them – this is strictly a meet-and-greet experience with an opportunity to touch the pony and take a photo with the gentle creature. Feeding the Shetland ponies is not on the itinerary, and neither are rides, which might be tempting for small children. Refrain from making unexpected movements and loud noises, and for those who have never been around horses before, remember: always approach from the front so they can see you. What is encouraged, though, is dressing up with playful props made available to visitors on-site, so choose your favourite when it’s your turn to meet them and strike a pose!
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