The 24th edition of the Macao Lotus Flower Festival, organized by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM), is set to grace Avenida da Praia in Taipa from June 14 to June 23. This vibrant festival promises a visual feast as potted lotus flowers adorn the streets, offering visitors a glimpse into the enchanting world of lotus blooms. Alongside this floral spectacle, a diverse array of exhibitions and activities await, ensuring both active and leisurely enjoyment for all attendees. The festival extends a warm invitation to the public to partake in its festivities.
Under the theme “Lotus Flowers in the Era of Prosperity for Double Celebration,” this year’s festival commemorates the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao Special Administrative Region. Central to the celebration are the meticulously curated displays, featuring the themed lotus variety “Nelumbo nucifera cv. ‘Shenzhou mei·ao’” alongside an array of seasonal flora. The main exhibition venue, conceptualized around the theme of “returning home,” is divided into three distinct areas, each offering a unique perspective on the cultural significance of lotus flowers.
The first area, titled the “Blessed Land of Lotus Flowers,” serves as a scenic corridor connecting eight iconic spots in Macao. Spanning over a lotus pond, an arch bridge offers visitors a visual journey through Macao’s rich cultural and natural heritage. The second area, “Aroma of Lotus Flowers Carried by Mist Across China,” captivates with a Chinese avenue adorned with art installations of lotus leaves. Here, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the allure of lotus culture, with the emerald-like leaves reaching for the sky and vibrant flowers glistening in the sunlight. The third area, “Magnificent Scenery of the Motherland,” features the symbolic “Haitang Gate” facing the “golden lotus of Macao,” signifying the joy of Macao’s reunification with the motherland. Art installations depicting the scenic landscapes of China further enhance the thematic narrative of the exhibition.
In addition to the main exhibition, visitors can explore the nearby lotus wetland spanning 69,000 square meters. A leisurely stroll along the 1,100-meter-long bank offers panoramic views of the blooming lotus flowers, providing an immersive experience amidst the natural splendor of Macao’s wetlands. Furthermore, the “Lotus and Macao Image and Text Exhibition” offers insights into the enduring relationship between the city and lotus flowers.
Over 5,000 potted lotus flowers will be strategically placed across major streets, green areas, and tourist attractions throughout Macao, including Senado Square, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Municipal Park, Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, Ruins of St. Paul’s, and Lou Lim Ioc Park. This widespread display ensures that the public can revel in the fragrant beauty of lotus flowers at their convenience.
To enrich the festival experience, IAM has curated a series of lotus-themed activities open to the public. These include the “Exhibition of Winning Works of Drawing Competition of the 2nd Hengqin Lotus Festival,” the “Themed Workshop on Hengqin Ecology,” jointly organized with the Urban Planning and Construction Bureau of Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, and various workshops and seminars exploring the cultural and ecological significance of lotus flowers. From culinary workshops to eco-tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Macao Lotus Flower Festival.
