The theme song for the Macao International Parade could again be heard at various points in Macau’s city centre as the 2026 edition took place yesterday afternoon, with troupes adding a rainbow to Macau’s overcast streets as they marched, danced and performed their way to Praça do Lago Sai Van.
Now the 12th edition since its launch in 2011, this year’s parade was themed “The Maritime Silk Road as a bridge for cultural exchange”. It kicked off from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ruins of St. Paul’s, where Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Wallis O Lam and Cultural Affairs Bureau President Deland Leong Wai Man, along with other representatives from the government and Macau’s integrated resort operators, officiated at the event.
With around 1,600 performers this year, participants consisted of 10 international groups comprising those from places along the Maritime Silk Road across Africa Asia, and Europe, alongside 50 local troupes.
Each group walked down the steps of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site towards a route that covered areas including Largo do Senado, Rua da Sé (大堂前地), and Avenida Panorâmica do Lago Nam Van (南灣湖景大馬路), all the while catching the attention of curious crowds of all ages, many waiting to snap a photo or take a video and have a chance at interacting.
Observers noted there appeared to have been fewer spectators than last year.
Crowds also had a chance to watch certain groups perform at designated areas along the route such as on a stage in the city’s main square, Largo do Senado, and under a white tent near the Nam Van Lake. Along the lake side was also where “VIVA Carnival” was set up, featuring a variety of booths that offered snacks and games, among other activities, to members of the public.
The parade concluded in front of Macau Tower, where participating local and international troupes joined hands for a final performance.
– Photos taken yesterday by Rui Pastorin
