Waterbomb Hong Kong 2025 Postponed Amidst Typhoon Threat; Refunds Underway

The highly anticipated Waterbomb Hong Kong music festival, originally scheduled for October 4-5, 2025, has been postponed due to the looming threat of Tropical Cyclone Matmo. Organizers announced the decision on Wednesday, citing forecasts of potential strong winds and tropical cyclone signals from the Hong Kong Observatory, prioritizing the safety of attendees, artists, and staff.

Approaching Typhoon Forces Festival Cancellation

Tropical Cyclone Matmo, which formed east of the Philippines, was forecast to intensify into a typhoon as it tracked across the South China Sea over the weekend. The Hong Kong Observatory predicted increasing winds and squally showers for the Hong Kong region from Saturday, October 4, through Sunday, October 5. By Sunday morning, the storm was expected to be a severe typhoon, potentially passing close to the southwest of the city. Recognizing the potential for inclement weather and strong winds, the organizers made the difficult decision to postpone the event just days before its scheduled commencement.

A Proactive Safety Measure Amidst Festival’s History

This postponement comes just over a year after the festival’s 2024 inaugural event in Hong Kong, which was marred by significant operational issues, including delays due to Typhoon Maliksi and severe chaos at the luggage storage facilities. These past problems, which led to widespread public backlash, likely contributed to the organizers’ decision to err on the side of caution with the current typhoon forecast. The organizers stated they have learned from previous experiences and are committed to ensuring a safer and more complete festival in the future. They referenced the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa from the previous week as a reminder of the paramount importance of event safety.

Impact on Attendees and Refund Procedures

The abrupt postponement has caused considerable disappointment among ticket holders, particularly those who had made travel arrangements, many of whom were already preparing to depart for Hong Kong. Ticket prices for the festival ranged from HK$880 for a one-day General Admission pass to HK$3,280 for a two-day VIP pass. In accordance with the organizer’s announcement and the policies of various ticketing platforms, full refunds will be processed. Customers have been notified that refund procedures will commence within 14 business days, though the process could take up to 45 business days depending on the bank and payment method. Details regarding a rescheduled event date and any potential changes to the artist lineup will be announced by the organizer once finalized.

Waterbomb Festival: A Global Brand’s Cautionary Tale

Waterbomb, a popular water-themed music festival originating from South Korea, has been expanding its global reach. The Hong Kong edition, known for its unique blend of K-pop, hip-hop, EDM performances, and large-scale water fights, was set to be a major event on the city’s entertainment calendar. However, the decision to postpone underscores the challenges of hosting large outdoor events in regions prone to tropical cyclones. While organizers have committed to finding a new date and ensuring a better experience, the incident highlights the delicate balance between delivering exciting entertainment and guaranteeing public safety in the face of unpredictable weather patterns. Fans are advised to stay tuned for further announcements regarding the rescheduled event and refund processes.