MACAO INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACES – If you’re big on boats but don’t fancy getting yourself soaked, you’re going to want to head down to the shores of Nam Van Lake in the city centre for the Dragon Boat Festival in May. The annual event sees dedicated local and international teams paddle their colourful dragon-shaped longboats ferociously along the water to the sound of beating drums, while competing for the ultimate prize.
MACAO FIREWORKS CONTEST – China is famous for its fireworks, but this event’s simply exceptional. Throughout September and into October, pyrotechnic geniuses from around the world go head to head to see who can create the most incredible show of bangs and bright lights, all set to music. Expect awe-inspiring entertainment on the shorefront of the Macau Tower.
CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR – Combine your visit with Chinese New Year on 28 January in 2017-it’s the most important and colourful Chinese festival of the year. Over ten days the whole city comes alive by day and night with colourful long dragon and lion dance displays, lit-up temples and lanterns lining the streets. Observe the locals setting off firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and receiving gifts of red envelopes containing money for prosperity in the year ahead.
MACAU GRAND PRIX – For high-octane action and breakneck speed, petrolheads should check out the Macau Grand Prix, which sees the world’s best F3 drivers put pedal to metal as they race through the city’s streets every November (from 17-20 November this year). Beyond the street circuit, you’ll be sure to find a festival buzz about the city, as bars and restaurants bustle with the thousands of spectators.