Which city lets you capture its spirit from a laser show, relives the King of Pop’s moonwalk steps, and dazzles you with a colorful feast for your senses? Only Hong  Kong, only on Halloween.

By 2:00PM on October 31, the main arteries leading to Lan Kwai Fong, the 2-block heart of the night life on Hong  Kong island, have been closed off by police. They meticulously set up the highly efficient entry and exit paths for the thousands of party goers which will descend on the streets in a few hours. Locals, expatriates and even visitors have spent the last few days and weeks preparing for the showdown in “LKF”, as most locals call Lan Kwai Fong. Some have spent only a few dollars during a last minute shopping spree in the stalls of Pottinger street, while others spent much more to design their own from Italian fabrics.

However, the night begins on the other side of Victoria harbor at 8:00PM sharp, lasting for 15 minutes. The laser, light and sound show is not only spectacular, but it’s also one of the unique events which drives audiences to the cultural side of Hong Kong. The Cultural Centre, Space museum, IMAX theatre, and Hong Kong’s version of ‘Walk of Fame’ are all within walking distance from the water’s edge.

But tonight, the place to see and be seen is in LKF. From Captain Jack Sparrow to Charlie Chaplin to some of the famous dynasties of China’s past, the clubs and bars welcome all walks of life. Even Eve showed up with her red apple, perhaps looking for Adam? The heart pumping music of the DJ’s and live bands provide entertainment for everyone, not to mention bartenders dressed up as gorillas who serve up liters and pints of your favorite brew, even without a cup.

The party lasts until the wee hours of the morning or until you decide to give up and indulge yourself in a juicy gyro sandwich, a hot savory bowl of noodles, or a veggie burger served on a toasted sesame roll with a side of fries. For those who have experienced this night, they have stories and memories to share for a life-time. For those who missed it, you have until October 31, 2010 to prepare yourself to cross the fine line between reality and fantasy in a city which can let you do both at the same time on the same night.

Ali Ghorbani