Head to Macau for a Dazzling Time

Showers of light and shimmering crackers in brilliant red, green and white explode across the night sky as thousands of spectators watch the brilliance unfurl – spellbound. The accompanying music, befitting the theme of the display, lulls everyone into a false sense of celestial magnificence from where the journey back to terra firma is not an easy one. Nevertheless, it is an event which pulls thousands of tourists each year to the welcoming shores of Macau. We’re referring to the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest, a one of its kind event! In 2017, the event is taking place on September 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and October 1st. 

 

Lighting up the Night Sky

Macau has been well-known for its thriving fireworks industry and the contest was envisioned in the 80s as a fitting tribute to the makers of brilliant firework displays. Organised by the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO), the event has over the years, became very popular not just in Asia but across the world. Today, it receives teams from almost everywhere – Mainland China, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Japan, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Australia, US and Portugal, who compete for the coveted trophy. 

A Crackling Good Time

Although Macau, the Vegas of the East, situated across the Pearl River estuary from Hong Kong and well known for its scintillating night life and casinos, is a great place to visit almost the year round, it is particularly delightful during the fireworks display contest. The contest and the opportunity to witness this spectacular explosion of lights and colours across the sky draw thousands of visitors to the island each year. The displays are usually held at the Macau Tower Shorefront and can be enjoyed from several places on the Macau Peninsula and Taipa Island. The best places to witness the displays are considered to be the waterfront of the Macau Tower Outdoor Plaza, the Macau Tower Street seaside as well as the square in front of the Kun Iam Statue which is located on Dr Sun Yat Sen Avenue.

 

When in Macau…

Don’t forget to take a tour of this city. Having been colonised by Portugal till 1999, it is now a Special Administrative Region of China and has over the years, developed into a wonderful place with unique European and Chinese influences. It has a rich smattering of beautiful churches, temples and imposing buildings. There is always something interesting happening on its waterfronts, and its many theme parks and amusement parks. There are also a number of shopping malls where you can easily spend a day. However, one activity you should definitely not miss out on is a visit to the casinos.

How to Get There

Macau is well connected to Hong Kong and China. Ferry services run from Hong Kong as well as Mainland China. You can also get there by road (car or bus) and by air. Flights land at the Macau International Airport from all major cities in the region including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Singapore, and Penang.

Book Your Flight to Macau