Each year, pyrotechnic teams from across the globe come head to head at the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest. The city’s skies are aflame with cascading lights and the crowds emit an electric buzz. Displays are choreographed to music and laser projections, adding even more magic to the event. For this 28th year see Thailand, Portugal, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Japan, Korea, Italy, Canada, Romania and China battle it out to be crowned the competition winner.

As you might expect, this is a popular event in the Macau calendar and crowds are to be expected. So here are our top tips on where to go for the best views on both Macau Peninsula and Taipa, and what else is happening alongside the festivities.

28th Macau International Fireworks Display Contest:

Date: Sep 3, 10, 15, 24 & Oct 1, 2016

Time: 9pm and 9:40pm each event night

Duration of each firework show: 10-15 minutes

Where: Macau Tower shorefront

Website for more info: click here

The impressive fireworks display can be seen from various locations around Macau and Taipa. Here are a few of the best locations.

1. Macau Tower

For arguably the most impressive views of the Macau fireworks spectacular, dive straight into the centre of the action at Macau Tower . Get your Macau Tower admission tickets here for the bargain price of US$11 or for the ultimate dinner and show experience, book the buffet at 360 Cafe to enjoy delicious international food with your fireworks.

For those with an adventurous streak, what more adrenaline-inducing way to view the show than from the Macau Tower Skywalk ! Put your nerves to the test as you walk, lean off, sit down or glide along the outside of Macau Tower, 233 meters above the ground! Book here during firework dates for the ultimate experience.

2. The Waterfront

The fireworks are set off near waterfront at the bottom of Macau Tower making Praia Grande and Nam Van Lake perfect viewing spots. However, the crowds realise this and you’ll be vying for position! Be sure to arrive early, to secure your standing ground.

Another suggestion is to find Ave. de Republica which runs behind Sai Van Lake. Find a spot on the lake wall and watch the show. You’ll get some beautiful photos of the fireworks reflecting off the lake in the foreground. We hear that lakeside restaurants such as Henri’s Gallery and Ali Curry House are tasty places to grab a bite whilst watching the spectacular show.

3. Peninsula side

Staying on Macau Peninsula will give you a closer view of the firework carnival. If you possibly can, try to get a window table at the Italian restaurant of the Wynn resort or a private room in the Chinese restaurant. You may be paying a little more for the luxury, but you won’t have to deal with the crowds. For a more budget option, the fountain square in front of the Wynn is a cheaper alternative.

4. Up the hill

A favorite viewing point is Penha Hill on Macau Peninsula. Space here is also limited so the same rule applies: arrive early to claim your spot.

5. On the bridge

Walk to the middle of the Macau-Taipa bridge for less crowds and good views. However keep in mind that the noise of the traffic can distract from the spectacle.

6. Over to Taipa

You’re more likely to get an unobstructed view if you opt to see the Macau fireworks from Taipa (the island connected to Macau Peninsula by three bridges). However the show will appear much smaller and there will be a sound delay as the noise travels across the water. To enjoy a relaxed evening in style, opt for a table at the lounge bar on the 38th floor of the Altira Hotel (Avenida de Kwong Tung).

Macau Fireworks Contest Program

Other happenings:

Fireworks Carnival

This annual event running on each of the 5 days during the Macau fireworks festivities is a firm favorite in the city, with traditional music, food and drink adding even more fun and colour to the event.

Time: 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Venue: Adjacent to Macau Tower

Admission: Free

Musical accompaniment

Each show is choreographed to music and lasers. Wherever you watch, be sure to tune in to TDM Radio (100.7FM) to get a clearer soundtrack.

Getting there and away