10th Anniversary of Macau's return to China

Macau marks its 10th anniversary of its return to China on the 20th December 2009.

Located on the Southeastern coast of China, Macau (comprising of a peninsula and two islands in the Pearl River delta of Guangdong Province) was once a Portuguese colony. China resumed sovereignty over Macau in 1999 and the territory became a Special Administrative Region (SAP).

In these 10 years, Macau grew to become a thriving and busy city, with International Casino-resorts built, attracting gamblers and tourists by the millions. This 10th Anniversary is celebrated with spectacular display of fireworks and entertaining parades and performances.

The flag-raising ceremony marking the 10th anniversary.

Golden Lotus Sculpture - Presented by China government in 1999 to Macau to mark the transfer of sovereignty

The flag-raising ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland is held at the Golden Lotus Square in Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR)

Fireworks display

Art & Cultural Performance Gala

One of the performance during the celebrations

China President Hu Jintao with the cast of performers on stage in a group chorus performance.

Macau locals celebrating in their own ways

A parade float designed with the 10th anniversary theme.

A group of school children having their own party celebration in their classroom.