Rites, festivities mark handover of Macau

Amid solemn rites and festivities, the Dec. 19 turnover of

Macau to China by Portugal promises to be a grand event

that also befits the ushering in of the new millennium.

The epochal affair will be marked with the establishment of the

Macau Special Administrative Region (MSAR) the following day at

10 a.m.

This will be followed with an afternoon-full of cultural and sports

events commencing at Rua dos Pescadores, winding up to the

Macau landmark.

There will be lion dances and Portuguese folk dances. The Macau

police forces together with the youth group organizations will

mount another number featuring Chinese bands and the Classic

Car Associations.

By 8 p.m., the I Love China special event will be staged at the

Macau Cultural Center by the culture department of China and

Macau cultural groups.

On Tuesday, Dec. 21, a series of exciting events entitled

Happiness in Macau takes place at the Macau Stadium in Taipa

Island. These include a parachutists show, releasing of doves and

balloons, drum performances and lion dances.

More than a thousand performers are expected to perform the

South Punch, Tai Chi Fans, Lotus Dance, Tribe Dance and

songs.

From Dec. 22-Jan. 1, 2000, various festivities will be held such as

the lighting exhibition in Nam Van Lake to commemorate the new

Macau administration.