5 festivals in Macau

SCENIC: Lotus Flower Festival

With Macau being shaped like a lotus, it's only fitting that the administrative region pays homage to the aquatic flower with a festival. Every June, bodies of water in the city are bulked out with the green foliage and pastel flowers of the lotus.

On land, potted lotus plants are strategically placed in parks, on street corners and at popular sightseeing points, while a horticultural exhibition and photography exhibition also pay tribute to this exotic specimen. If all this floral glory has built up your appetite, head to the lotus food showcase where you can munch your way through a longevity lotus lunch. The festival runs from June 16 to 24.

QUIRKY: Feast of the Drunken Dragon

This festival is best described as a Chinese take on a pub crawl, where a wooden dragon is heaved to and from drinking establishments. In the morning, fisherman perform a drunken dance and begin the wine skolling, culminating in a dinner for those left standing.

It may seem illogical but there is a legend behind it. Long ago, in a plague-ridden village, a giant python is said to have emerged from a river and been chopped in three by a Buddhist monk. The land was soaked with the creature's blood and suddenly became fertile, after which the plague ended and everyone drank in a wild celebration. The locals continue this celebration throughout May with the festivities starting at Kuan Tai temple near Senado Square. The event takes place on April 28.

TASTING: Macau Food Festival

Macau's unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese history is epitomised by its cuisine, and every year the region holds a food festival in front of the iconic Macau Tower.

Macanese cuisine arose centuries ago when the region was first colonised. Its origins stem from the desire of Portuguese wives to replicate European dishes using Asian ingredients. The distinct flavours of its dishes include turmeric, coconut milk and cinnamon. African Chicken sounds neither Chinese nor Portuguese but it is Macanese nonetheless, and is thought to be a nod to Portugal's African colonies. The festival runs from November 9 to 25.

SPORTING: The Macau Grand Prix

In November each year, the eyes of the motor racing world are on Macau. This is the only street circuit in the world with car and motorbike racing events. The best recognised event is the Formula Three race, which has launched the career of many a global racing star.

Formula Three is the stepping stone to Formula One racing – Michael Schumacher is just one past master to have started as a Formula Three driver. The street circuit is bound with crash barriers and combines long straight stretches with corkscrew bends, making it one of the most challenging drives in the world. The value of this event is underscored by the Grand Prix Museum, which showcases Macau's motor racing heritage through video, cars and racing simulators. The event runs from November 15 to 18.

TRADITIONAL: en-Cantos

Macau's Portuguese influence is most visible in its colourful architecture and squares, but its East-meets-West legacy can be found wherever you turn.

This year will see the launch of en-Cantos – a fortnight of Portuguese cultural events. It's a celebration of Macau's Portuguese legacy which dates back to colonisation in the 16th century. Launched off the back of Portugal Day, the festival runs from June 8 to 25, featuring street performances, documentaries, food and wine events, exhibitions and concerts.

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festivals