People participate in the 2025 Macao International Parade in Macao, March 23, 2025. The 2025 Macao International Parade celebrating the 26th anniversary of Macao's Return to the Motherland was held on Sunday. [Photo/Xinhua]

　　MACAO -- With a verdant Loong (Chinese dragon) made of bamboo, a handmade armor performance from Japan, and an elephant hat dance from South Korea showing up in front of the Ruins of St. Paul's, the “2025 Macao International Parade“ officially set off on Sunday.

　　These were part of the 83 performing teams from various cultures across the world.

　　Upholding the spirit of “Love, Peace and Cultural Integration“ while promoting Macao's designation as a “Culture City of East Asia 2025,“ this year's parade featured local groups and participating groups worldwide, totaling an estimated 1,800 artists.

　　People participate in the 2025 Macao International Parade in Macao, March 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

　　The local team, “the Funny Old Tree Theater Ensemble,“ performed about the Earth, suggesting that different cultures share one home. Vong Weng Chon, a team member, said that as a Macao resident, he was pleased to make new friends from different backgrounds. “It's lively and exciting,“ he added.

　　As another “Culture City of East Asia 2025,“ Huzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, brought the dance of bamboo leaf Loong. Zhu Zhengguo, a member of the performing team, told Xinhua that it was an honor to bring their traditional treasure to this event. He was also happy to see and communicate with other art groups.