Macao has just celebrated the 14th anniversary of its return to China. Macao became a Portuguese colony in the mid-16th century and it was returned back to China in 1999.
The parade started at the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Paul, an iconic site in Macao. Performers from Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and a host of Latin America nations took part in the event. Entertainers from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan also took part. Spectators were free to join the 2000 performers along the parade. The parade was broadcast live on large screens set up in various neighbourhoods to spread the joy to everyone. "Love, peace and the fusion of cultures was the theme of the parade. Fireworks shows were also staged in the night near the Macau tower, ending the celebrations on a high note.