The Macao International Fireworks Display Contest returns for its 34th edition, lighting the sky from 12 September to 4 October. Ten teams from different nations will compete, and a large-scale drone show joins the fireworks for the first time.
Since its launch in 1989, the contest has evolved into a marquee autumn attraction, with each edition expanding its roster of international pyrotechnic crews and solidifying the sea area before the Macau Tower as a celebrated stage.
Event schedule and participants
The competition unfolds over five evenings: 12, 19, 25 September and 1 and 4 October. Each night features two shows lasting about 18 minutes, beginning at 9:00 p.m. and 9:40 p.m.
All performances take place in the sea area in front of the Macao Tower.
The opening night will showcase Brazil at 9:00 p.m., followed by Switzerland at 9:40 p.m. Both are among four debuting teams, alongside Italy and Portugal.
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Subsequent evenings pair Italy with Canada, Portugal with Korea, Thailand with China, and finally the Philippines with the United Kingdom, concluding the contest on 4 October.
New drone component and theme
This year’s theme, “Set Sail for Macao, where the Silk Road Sparkles,” guides three program chapters: “Encounter with History,” “Encounter with Civilization,” and “Encounter with the Future.” The narrative blends pyrotechnics, music and aerial choreography.
The 2026 edition also brings a first-ever large-scale drone component, marking a technological milestone for the event.
For the first time, more than 3,400 drones will create synchronized formations on the opening and closing nights. The drones trace shapes that echo the Silk Road concept, adding a modern visual layer to traditional fireworks.
Viewing options and related activities
Six official viewing spots are recommended, stretching from the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre to the Kun Iam Statue Waterfront Recreation Area on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, as well as the Macao Science Center waterfront, Avenida de Sagres near Mandarin Oriental, Anim’Arte NAM VAN, Caminho Marginal do Lago beside YOHO Treasure Island Hotel, and Avenida do Oceano in Taipa.
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Designated areas provide synchronized sound systems so audiences can hear the music that accompanies each display. The soundtrack also streams on TDM – Radio Macao’s Chinese Channel (FM 100.7), while live video coverage airs on television and online platforms.
The waterfront beside the Macao Science Center hosts a nightly Fireworks Carnival. Running from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, the carnival features food stalls, live performances and games, all themed around the city’s mascot, Mak Mak.
Visitors can explore the carnival before the first launch, then watch both competing teams from the same location, creating a seamless entertainment experience.
Interactive features and prizes
MGTO offers a WeChat mini-program that lets users play an interactive game during the contest. Participants complete challenges or predict which team might win, entering a draw for souvenirs and a round-trip ticket between Macao and the Chinese mainland.
Additional creative contests invite the public to submit photographs, drawings or AI-generated art inspired by the displays. Winners receive recognition and prizes, encouraging broader engagement with the event.
