The Macao International Fireworks Display Contest returns for its 34th edition, running from 12 September to 4 October, and will feature large-scale drone shows alongside traditional pyrotechnics.
Event Timeline and Participants
First launched in 1989, the competition has grown into a marquee attraction, drawing fireworks teams from around the globe to the sea area in front of the Macau Tower.
All displays take place over five evenings—12, 19, 25 September and 1, 4 October—with two roughly 18-minute shows each night, starting at 9:00 pm and 9:40 pm.
Ten teams will compete, representing Brazil, Switzerland, Italy, Canada, Portugal, Korea, Thailand, China, the Philippines and the United Kingdom.
The 2026 contest adopts the theme “Set Sail for Macao, where the Silk Road Sparkles,” emphasizing cultural exchange through light and sound.
For the first time, more than 3,400 drones will join the fireworks, forming three chapters titled “Encounter with History,” “Encounter with Civilization,” and “Encounter with the Future.”
Opening night on 12 September will see Brazil launch the competition at 9:00 pm, followed by Switzerland at 9:40 pm; both are among four debuting nations, alongside Italy and Portugal.
The debut night also marks the inaugural use of the drone component, creating a combined aerial spectacle that blends illuminated fireworks with coordinated drone formations.
Integrating drones expands the visual vocabulary of the event, allowing designers to craft shapes and narratives that fireworks alone cannot achieve, while still preserving the traditional burst patterns that audiences expect.
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The second evening, 19 September, features performances by Italy and Canada, each presenting a unique blend of music and pyrotechnic choreography.
The contest concludes on 4 October with Philippines and the United Kingdom delivering the final performances, wrapping up the five-night program.
Viewing Locations and Broadcast
Six recommended viewing spots span the waterfront, from the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre to the Kun Iam Statue Recreation Area on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, as well as the Macau Science Center waterfront and Avenida de Sagres near Mandarin Oriental.
Designated areas will host synchronized sound systems, broadcasting the musical scores that accompany each display, ensuring visitors hear the intended soundtrack in real time.
The audio feed will also be available on TDM Radio Macau’s Chinese Channel (FM 100.7), while live video streams will be carried by local television and online platforms.
One of the most lively venues is the waterfront beside the Macau Science Center, where the Fireworks Carnival gathers each competition night.
The carnival runs from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, featuring food stalls, live performances and games, all themed around Mak Mak, the city’s mascot.
Interactive Activities and Extras
Visitors can engage with an online interactive game via the MGTO WeChat mini-program, completing challenges or predicting which team might win; correct guesses enter a draw for MGTO souvenirs and a round-trip ticket between Macao and the Chinese mainland.
Additional creative contests invite participants to submit photography, drawing or AI-generated art inspired by the fireworks, encouraging broader artistic involvement.
