With the 2016 festive season fast approaching, Macao is readying itself for a number of colourful festivals and family events.

From December 8-13, Macao is rolling out the red carpet at the inaugural International Film Festival and Awards, where a series of films from Asia and beyond will be screened, with key international movie directors among the VIP guests.

The film festival and awards, organised by the Macao Government Tourism Office, aims to raise awareness and promote the various aspects of Chinese-language, East Asian and international cinema in all its forms. The festival will be highlighted by a number of industry screenings, major awards and workshops.

Other exciting events to keep an eye on are:

Macao Light Festival 2016 – Treasure of Light (December 4-31)

Macao’s version of Sydney’s annual Vivid where many of the streets, lanes, squares and historic buildings are the focus of video-mapping projections, glittering light installations, interactive games, as well as a music and light shows.

Parade through Macao – Latin City (Sunday, December 4)

A colourful Sunday evening street parade which celebrates the 17th anniversary of Macao’s Handover to China. The parade takes the classic Chinese text Classic of Mountains and Sea.

Macao Galaxy Entertainment International Marathon (Sunday, December 4)

Local runners take on international challengers across three distances – a 42km marathon, the half marathon and a mini marathon (about 5kms).

Macau Shopping Festival (December 3-31)

A bargain hunter’s delight, the many stores of Macao – large and small – take part in an expanded shopping festival, complete with lucky draws and giveaways.

For more information on what’s on visit Visit Macao or Macao Tourism.