Festivities marking the arrival of the Year of the Horse began in spectacular fashion on Tuesday as the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) launched its “2026 Chinese New Year Activities” with a grand golden dragon parade through the city’s historic quarters.
The celebrations opened at the iconic Ruins of St. Paul's, where officials of the Macao Special Administrative Region government presided over the traditional eye-dotting ceremony for a 238-meter-long golden dragon and 18 vibrant lion dance troupes rituals symbolizing vitality, prosperity, and good fortune for the year ahead.
Addressing attendees, MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes extended New Year greetings to residents and visitors, expressing hope that the Year of the Horse would usher in renewed prosperity, happiness, and dynamic growth for the city.
The procession wound its way through major heritage sites and bustling streets, captivating crowds with performances by the towering dragon, lively lions, the God of Fortune, the three deities representing Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity, as well as the Horse zodiac mascot and Macao’s tourism ambassador Mak Mak. Spectators lined the routes early in the morning to secure vantage points.
Local resident Ms. Lam said she makes it a point to attend the parade each year. Arriving before sunrise, she described the event as a cherished tradition and welcomed the opportunity to interact with performers. “I hope there will be even more of these activities,” she said.
Tourists also joined the celebrations in large numbers. Chen, a visitor from Beijing who has been in Macao for five days, said the city’s festive atmosphere left a strong impression. He noted that he had never before seen such an extensive dragon display, calling it “splendid and very impressive.”
According to China Daily, the two-day community roadshow accompanying the parade features performances by art troupes across several popular locations, including the Macao Grand Prix Museum area, Barra Square, and the Taipa Houses.
The annual celebration is one of Macao’s most anticipated cultural events, blending centuries-old Spring Festival traditions with the city’s vibrant tourism appeal, while extending auspicious wishes to all in the Year of the Horse.
BOB Post
