People watch a dragon dance performance in celebration of the Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, near the Ruins of St. Paul's in south China's Macao, Jan. 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)

The Public Security Police Force of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) said that on Friday, Macao's borders recorded 423,000 entries and exits by 5 p.m., with 261,000 of them being visitors and 191,000 being incoming travelers.

This Spring Festival marks its first version after being inscribed in the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list. Macao injected fresh vitality into the traditional festival with exciting events.

On Wednesday, the first day of the Chinese New Year, the Macao SAR government tourism office (MGTO) organized a community roadshow, "2025 Chinese New Year Activities," at the Ruins of St. Paul's and Senado Square.

A 238-meter-long golden dragon and 18 dancing lions joined the God of Fortune, the three Gods of Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity, and the Chinese Zodiac Mascot of the Snake to greet and distribute golden ingots to residents and visitors.

Ms. Ji, from Shenzhen, exclaimed: "It's quite impressive." It was her first time coming to Macao with her parents, and they coincidentally arrived just in time for the golden dragon parade. Ms. Fan, who came from Wuhan to celebrate the Spring Festival, arrived at 9 a.m. and secured a front-row spot to watch the golden dragon.

"This is my fourth time in Macao and my first time experiencing the Chinese New Year here. The Chinese dragon, lion dance, and other traditions reflect the rich essence of Chinese culture," she said.