Macau is set to welcome between 1.4 and 1.5 million tourists over the course of the nine-day Lunar New Year festivities, with an expected average of between 158,000 and 175,000 per day.
According to TDM Canal Macau, the Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) noted that this is a “large number of people” – justifying the 5 percent yearly increase in the budget for the LNY entertainment: MOP36 million ($4.48 million).
Debuting this year is a simultaneous drone and firework show, with three performances scheduled – on February 19th and 23rd and on March 3rd.
“This is a new endeavor and we hope that everyone will enjoy it. We want to bring a new experience for our visitors to enjoy,” stated the official.
The typical Lunar New Year Parade will also take place, bringing 1,300 artists from various regions around the world, accompanied by 17 floats and “many performances”.
The LNY celebrations are a key attraction for entertainment-focused tourists, with many coming from the neighboring regions for day trips to enjoy the festivities.
Analysts are predicting that the typical travel flux during the first weeks leading up to the LNY is likely to negatively impact casino play, but this should reverse in the final weeks of the month and compensate for any downturn.
Given that entertainment is a key element during the LNY celebration, media questioned the MGTO head on the recent cancellation of events featuring Japanese artists. The official noted that “from our side, we don’t have any idea behind the rationale of such cancellations”, noting that it’s not appropriate for MGTO to comment on the arrangements.
“I think nowadays Macau has many different types of concerts – from mainland China and from international artists. I believe that organizers will continue to find different groups to bring to Macau. Many (famous) acts have already come to Macau and I believe this will continue,” noted Helena de Senna Fernandes.
