Happy B’day USA
GUESTS FROM HONG KONG AND BEYOND GATHERED TO CELEBRATE UNITED STATES INDEPENDENCE DAY AT ISLAND SHANGRI-LA
It was actually july 3, but the Island Shangri-la was bursting with the spirit of the Fourth of July as US Consul General Clifford Hart hosted a lavish celebration of his country’s Independence Day. The Island Ballroom was decked out in red, white and blue, with balloons and flowers galore, and many of the guests donned outfits in the colours of the Stars and Stripes to demonstrate their patriotism or support for the US. A toast between Hart and Hong Kong Financial Secretary John Tsang kicked off the event. “This is a special occasion for me: my first Independence Day reception in Hong Kong as the US Consul General,” Hart told the gathering. “As many of you know, I’ve spent a lot of the last year reacquainting myself with Hong Kong’s remarkable food scene. Tonight, I have the chance to turn the tables a bit, by inviting you to celebrate one of America’s most traditional holidays: the Fourth of July.” Guests mingled while enjoying a delightful assortment of appetisers, which were followed by a huge spread of American food. The fantastic buffet featured roast striploin, honey-glazed Virginia ham, shrimp creole, Georgia pecan pie and free-flowing wine, champagne and craft beer.