Proving their unwavering status in the luxury hotel industry, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong celebrated their 50th anniversary with an over-the-top gala on October 18, 2013. The elegant event was attended by 800 high-profile celebrities, socialites and dignitaries from Hong Kong, and around the world, including Oscar-winner Helen Mirren, singer-songwriter Karen Mok, English author Frederick Forsyth, actor Moses Chan, and French chef Pierre Gagnaire.

In true five-star fashion, the evening began with a red carpet reception with a personal welcome by the hotel group's Chief Executive Edouard Ettedgui, General Manager/Area Vice President Jonas Schuermann along with various other members of operations. Upon arrival, each guest got a chance to see the history of the brand through a 3D projection onto the building—from the opening of the flagship Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong in 1963 to the growth of the group worldwide as we know it today. Inside, everyone dined on dishes prepared by Executive Chef Uwe Opocensky and enjoyed musical entertainment by Karen Mok and British singer Bryan Ferry, as well as a performance by The City Contemporary Dance Company created by Chinese modern dance choreographer Willy Tsao.

The extravagant event even allowed time to give back to local charities like The Hong Kong Red Cross and Hong Kong Cancer Fund through an auction led by President of Christie's Asia Francois Curiel. "From our great beginning in 1963, our brand has grown to 45 luxury hotels in major global destinations," said Edouard Ettedgui. "It is fitting that tonight we pay tribute to our original flagship, our wonderful staff and our loyal guests. The excellent service and attention to detail given by our 850 colleagues each and every day is why this hotel is held in such high regard by so many people around the world."