As Light up Macao 2023 continues to enchant the city, discover what awaits in the Nam Van, Central, and Praia do Manduco Districts.
To say that this is the Season to be Jolly is an understatement. With the city in high spirits, anticipating Macao’s several upcoming festivities in the next few months, both locals and visitors have plenty of reasons to celebrate this time of year. Contributing to this joyful atmosphere is Light up Macao 2023, a festival that truly brings the city to life.
Dazzling Wonderland comprises a spectacular light display featuring radiant installations, engaging interactive displays, and captivating mapping demonstrations spread across 34 sites within seven districts spanning Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane until February 25.
**This is a sponsored feature.
Dancing with Butterflies
The waterfront areas of Nam Van District offer spellbinding views that set the background to enjoy Dancing Butterflies and Blooming Wonders. Along the Wynn Macao Lakeside Promenade (Avenida de Sagres), visitors will find inspiration in the Secret Garden, where a flower installation sporadically unfolds, nestled within the palm grove. Don’t miss the light installation Graceful Butterflies on Water, where the lake mirrors the graceful dance of colourful butterflies and the Flower Sea Romance interactive installation, where flowers create a spectacular sight of the waterfall flowing backward when the audience waves to the Sea of Flowers.
Spread your wings to Anim’Arte NAM VAN to embrace the Wishful Butterfly Sphere, an interactive experience that unlocks the magical gateway to the soul. After touching the installation, visitors will see butterflies gradually appear, eventually glowing red. an accommodate up to 6 people for a shared experience.
Along the walkway between Anim’ Arte NAM VAN and the Nam Van Lake Nautical Centre is the Stepping Blossoms Gallery. As visitors walk under the lights, flower images appear with each step, creating a beautiful metaphor of “every step brings forth flowers.”
Once you reach the Nautical Centre, a Floral Wonderland is waiting for you, creating a breath-taking seascape with both romance and joy. Next, you may follow the light path and enter the Butterfly Adventure Labyrinth before stepping into the Blossom Playground, a vibrant park where each step taken is reflected in corresponding changes in sound and colour
Look up, and you will easily find the Nautical Centre’s White Tent. There you get into the Butterfly Castle, where vibrant butterflies flutter above visitors.
City Centre Enchantment
The bustling heart of the city is a renowned destination for visitors exploring Macao, and a cherished spot for locals to unwind with leisurely strolls, shopping, and daily activities. The perfect place for a visit, the area is one of the most inviting and one not to be missed!
We suggest starting at Cathedral Square, the Blooming Splendor begins with the Sparkle of Light installation. This 1-minute light show is held at 8 pm and 9 pm every night, featuring colourful illuminated round lamps on the tree in front of the Cathedral Square synchronized with music and light projections around the fountain.
Moving onward to the picturesque Travessa de S. Domingos, visitors will marvel at the beautiful Illuminated Arches, creating picture-perfect moments waiting to be shared.
Continuing along this marvellous path will lead to Rua de Cinco de Outubro, where a mesmerising Floral Fantasiaawaits, promising moments of wonder and magic for everyone. For those who venture towards the inner harbour, which we strongly suggest you do, a truly unique experience continues to surprise.
The interactive Golden Lotus Pavilion at the Sofitel Front Courtyard is poised to captivate even the most discerning individuals, offering an interactive show promising amusement and fascination for the entire family.
But that’s not all! Click here to discover more about the Central District, including a nostalgic experience at the Kam Pek Community Centre, where Splendor Rickshaws await to be photographed!
Charming City
In the Praia do Manduco District, a beloved area where East meets West amidst a collection of beautiful architectural landmarks, there’s much to admire. Encompassing the Moorish Barracks, Largo do Lilau, and extending to the Barra Pier, this area has gained even more allure with the touch of light and marvel.
For those with a romantic inclination, we suggest starting at the Moorish Barracks, where the sub-theme Warmest Stories evokes soft and joyful memories, crafting a genuine Winter Romance (another subtheme of this unique installation) to be shared with someone special.
From there, the journey leads to Largo do Lilau, a square that hold a unique place in Macao’s history and where memories of the old Macao can still be experienced. It is here that light and movement lend a special touch. A color spectacle awaits, inviting everyone to delight in the interactive installation spread across captivating panels throughout the square.
We should say that a visit to Barra Pier is highly recommended. Not only will the young ones enjoy in the views and old-town ambiance, but the enticing Blissful Wave light installation is sure to capture their attention! And who wouldn’t want to seize a fantastic selfie opportunity beside the giant LED “I ♡ Macao” sign, just adjacent to the Barra Public Transport Interchange Square? We have just one advice: be creative!
Join in the Fun
There’s a lot to be enjoyed, good quality time with family and friends enjoying this spectacle of light. But it is not all! Not only are all these locations the perfect opportunity for creative photos, ensuring memories will never fade, but you can qualify for prizes. Truly the best of both worlds!
Use the hashtags #lightupmacao2023 or #illuminatemacau2023 when sharing your posts. This doesn’t just allow you to showcase your incredible images but also gives you the chance to win gifts once your post garners 20 likes. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to enter a grand lucky draw!
