As winter approaches, Macao and the Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin are buzzing with festive charm, breathtaking sights, and endless activities. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland and the third anniversary of the establishment of Hengqin—making it the perfect time to celebrate and explore.
Starting January 1, 2025, permanent residents and residence permit holders in Hengqin will be eligible to apply for multi-entry permits to Macao, opening doors to seamless travel between the two regions. With Christmas and New Year around the corner, let's dive into the exciting festivities and spots and experience the holiday season!
Macao
Light Up Macao 2024 (2024幻彩耀濠江)
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Macao's return and other major festive occasions, "Light Up Macao 2024" dazzles until February 28, 2025. Across six districts of the Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane, you'll find four art installations, twelve light installations, nine interactive installations, and three themed mapping shows at 23 locations. From 8 to 9 PM every Saturday during the event, different pop-up events enliven designated locations, featuring giant inflatable dolls, electronic keyboard performances, funny balloon shows, cartoon paintings, and mini band shows.
(Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
Senado Square (议事亭前地)
Senado Square has been Macao's urban center for centuries and is still the most popular venue for public events and celebrations today. It is surrounded by pastel-colored neoclassical buildings, creating a consistent and harmonious Mediterranean atmosphere.
(Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
The square recently has been transformed into a winter wonderland with a giant Christmas tree, gift-laden miniature trains, and a glowing tunnel adorned with flags celebrating the 25th anniversary. By nightfall, the square shimmers like a starry sky.
(Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
(Photo: Xinhua)
Macau Tower (澳门旅游塔)
With a height of 338 meters, Macau Tower offers magnificent panoramic views all over Macao and much of the Pearl River Delta from its observation deck and revolving restaurant, at the 223-meter level.
(Photo: Xinhua)
On December 25 at 9 PM, a fireworks display will light up the sky above the sea overlooked by Macau Tower to mark the 25th anniversary. Climb the tower at sunset for an unforgettable golden-hour view and glittering nightscape!
Best viewing spots for the fireworks display (Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
Ruins of St. Paul's (大三巴牌坊)
As a symbol of Macao's history, the Ruins of St. Paul's is the facade of the Church of Mater Dei (Church of St. Paul) attached to St. Paul's College founded in 1594. Now, the spot's steps are adorned with oversized festive decorations, such as stockings, gift boxes, and bells, which become a perfect photo backdrop to capture the holiday cheer.
(Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
Macau Fisherman's Wharf (澳门渔人码头)
Located on Macao's outer harbor, Macau Fisherman's Wharf is the largest leisure and entertainment complex on the Macao Peninsula, offering exceptional dining, entertainment, and sightseeing experiences.
(Photo: Macao Government Tourism Office)
Currently, the "Macao Stories: The Aspirations of 100 Macao People" exhibition is being held at Galeria Lisboa until December 31. The exhibition features two sections: interactive multimedia displays and photographic showcases, highlighting Macao's remarkable transformation over the past 25 years since its return to China. Through 100 video stories from Macao residents and 73 photographic series, the exhibition vividly captures the evolving journey of Macao.
(Photo: Guo Hongda)
Hengqin
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom (横琴长隆海洋王国)
Hengqin's iconic Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is a dreamland for families, where tourists can enjoy thrilling rides, penguin and whale shark exhibits, and lively parades throughout the day. On December 31, the theme park will offer two fireworks shows: a colorful display at 8 PM and a dazzling New Year countdown show at midnight!
(Photo: Nanfang Daily)
Legend Ponto Square (励骏庞都广场)
Just steps from Hengqin Port, this art-inspired shopping center blends Portuguese architecture with Chinese cultural elements. Throughout the holiday season, the square offers various activities like band performances for visitors, and don't miss the artificial snowfall on the evenings of December 21, 25 and 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025!
(Photo: Economic Development Bureau of Hengqin)
Sumlodol Camping Town (星乐度·露营小镇)
Perfect for a winter escape, Sumlodol Camping Town offers unique accommodations like stargazing RVs and charming cabins. Until January 1, 2025, tourists can enjoy family fun with activities such as bonfires, artificial snowfall, and games.
(Photo: Zhuhai Municipal Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau)
Hengqin Flower Corridor (花海长廊)
The Hengqin Flower Corridor stretches 13.6 km from the Hengqin Bridge to Gang'ao Avenue along North Qinhai Road. With 7,500 blooming silk floss trees and radiant bougainvillea, the area becomes a romantic wonderland during winter. You can capture the perky pink blossoms at the No. 1, 2, and 5 rest stations. Relax on swings, climb observation towers, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of southern China's warm winter blooms.
(Photo: Economic Development Bureau of Hengqin)
Author: Huang Xinying
Poster: Cai Junru
Editor: Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He
