Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) welcomed the Chinese New Year with a series of spectacular celebrations, attracting visitors from around the globe to partake in the festive spirit.
Dazzling Festivities Light Up Macao
On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) kicked off the “2025 Chinese New Year Activities” at the iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s and Senado Square. The highlight was a majestic 238-meter-long golden dragon procession accompanied by 18 vibrant dancing lions. Joining them were the God of Fortune, the three Gods of Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity, and the Chinese Zodiac Mascot of the Snake, all distributing golden ingots to delighted residents and visitors.
“We wanted to bring joy and share our Chinese New Year greetings through the traditional dragon and lion dances,” said Ho Kin Ho, a coach involved in the performance.
Visitors Immerse Themselves in Tradition
Zhu Jingjing, a tourist from the Chinese mainland, was captivated by the festivities. “It’s quite impressive,” she remarked. “I brought my child here specifically to experience the Chinese New Year atmosphere in Macao. The dragon and lion dances here are very traditional and unique.”
Local resident Leong Ka Chun was also eager to share the cultural richness with his family. “I wanted my daughter to learn about the essence of traditional Chinese culture through these performances,” he told reporters.
Cultural Markets and Exhibitions
The New Year Market at Tap Seac Square, organized by the SAR’s Municipal Affairs Bureau, offered an array of New Year gifts, festive flowers, and snacks. Visitors enjoyed cultural performances, a grand floral exhibition, and vibrant New Year decorations.
In the Barra District, the “Barra Lucky Blessing Market” is running through February, featuring workshops on New Year prints from Beijing’s Prince Kung’s Palace Museum, live music performances, and booths showcasing trendy goods. James Wong, a participant and representative of small and medium-sized enterprises, expressed his enthusiasm: “The market provides a great platform to meet new people and expand my business.”
Several cultural venues added to the festive ambiance with special exhibitions. The Macao Museum of Art (MAM) is hosting the “Palace of Double Brilliance: Special Exhibition from the Palace Museum” until March 2. MAM exhibition coordinator Zhao Kaixin said, “We hope this exhibition offers residents and visitors a glimpse into historical treasures and highlights the beauty of Chinese culture.”
Fireworks and Parades Illuminate the Sky
Friday night saw the “Parade for Celebration of the Year of the Snake” mesmerize spectators with 17 elaborate floats. The evening culminated in a stunning fireworks display over the Seafront of Macao Tower. Additional fireworks shows are scheduled for February 4 and February 12, alongside another grand parade set for February 8.
Booming Tourism Welcomes the New Year
“We welcome friends from all over the world to Macao,” said MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes. “Take a stroll around our city and experience the rich cultures and exciting elements of the Chinese New Year.”
According to the Public Security Police Force of the Macao SAR, there were over 423,000 border crossings by 5 p.m. on Friday. Estimates suggest that during the Chinese Spring Festival holiday, Macao will see between 5.04 million and 5.36 million entries and exits, averaging 630,000 to 670,000 people daily—a 3% increase compared to the previous year.
