Light up your sky, Light up your heart

By Carri, Tam Hoi Neng

An expecting moment, a ravishing night sky, an enchanting response - the most magnificent event which takes place between September and October - the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, is fascinating to both tourists around the world as well as local citizens.
The 22nd Macao International Fireworks Display Contest came to an end on Friday, October 1, with Tamaya Kitahara Fireworks Co., Ltd. from Japan winning the championship. The fireworks won a big applause from spectators because of its distinction and uniqueness. Many famous Japanese cartoon images were displayed, which created a stunning scene in the sky. The Japanese team received the championship in 2004, 2005 and 2009, as well as the second prize in 2008.
For local citizens, the annual firework contest has already become one of the favorite cultural activities. People are all eager for such delightful moments;
families and friends come out in groups to watch the fireworks; romances start under the glowing night. The thrill offered in the event is the main reason why this event has been popular over the years, developing from a small scale event into a more successful and well-known worldwide contest. Tourists often choose to visit Macao in this period in order to share the joyful atmosphere with their beloved ones.
"It's a good reason for a gathering," said Samantha Wong, who was sitting comfortably on a sofa in front of a sea view window. "Nowadays we are all busy working, and daily routines occupy most of our time. It's increasingly difficult to go out with friends because we usually feel tired. However, watching the firework contest gives us a good reason to have a party, or you might say it's just an excuse, we are excited to share the happiness together."
In contrast with citizens of our neighboring city of Hong Kong, Macao citizens are more fortunate as watching fireworks is more accessible in Macao. "We do not need to queue up for a desired spot from the afternoon, nor do we need to wait for special holidays to watch the fireworks," said Kelly Mak, a student in Macao Polytechnic Institute (IPM). "In Macao, we have the opportunity to watch this International Fireworks Display Contest on weekends every September."
For the contest this year, there were 10 teams featuring the United Kingdom, Chinese Taiwan, the Philippines, Australia, Portugal, Korea, Japan, France, Italy and China. A special competition of "SMS Voting Game" was launched this year to promote citizen participation in the Contest. The five teams that receive the most SMS votes will be awarded with "The People's Choice" certificates and souvenirs. Same as last year, the participating teams are required to complement background music with their splendid displays in order to enhance the pleasure of spectators.
Organized by the Macao Government Tourist Office (MGTO), the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest has entered into its 22nd year and become a worldwide festival. The original purpose of this contest was to add a festive atmosphere to holidays and festivals. Nowadays, the contest has become one of the signature contests of Macao. MGTO is trying to build up its status and reputation in order to make it a significant global firework display contest.