The 2026 Sands Shopping Carnival: A Celebration of Community Spirit and Inclusion

The Sands Shopping Carnival has become a staple of community engagement and support in Macao since its debut in 2020, bringing together small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local social organizations to promote inclusivity. The seventh annual event, which took place from July 23 to 26, showcased Sands China's unwavering commitment to fostering community ties through collaboration, support, and shared opportunities.

Growth and Participation: A Record-Setting Event

This year's carnival, hosted at the Cotai Expo, saw nearly 160,000 attendees, setting a new record for the event, and contributing to a cumulative visitation of 800,000 over seven years. With the participation of 20 social service organizations and more than 100 Sands Cares Ambassadors, the carnival served as a vibrant platform for businesses, social initiatives, and community engagement.

Despite facing adverse weather conditions, the resilience and enthusiasm of attendees highlighted the community's collective spirit and dedication to supporting one another. The carnival provided a rich tapestry of activities and opportunities for families to connect, learn, and grow together, embodying the essence of Sands Cares.

Inclusive Activities and Programming

At the heart of the carnival was a diverse program designed to engage participants of all ages and abilities. The event hosted over 580 booths featuring local and international brands across eight themed zones, including Household Products, Gourmet and Wine, Cultural Creatives, and Sports. Notably, the carnival also emphasized inclusivity through performances by community members. Highlights included the appearance of Chan Ka Keong, a visually impaired pianist from the Caritas Macau Sunshine Center, who wowed the audience during the karaoke competition with his musical talent.

Sands China also hosted family-friendly activities inviting nearly 90 family members from local volunteer organizations to enjoy fun interactions, promoting a warm, welcoming environment. With nearly 50 Sands Cares Ambassadors leading workshops and games, opportunities for joyful connections flourished throughout the event.

Empowering Local Talents

The carnival not only served as a sales platform but also as a venue for local talents to shine. Social service organizations showcased products made by their trainees, especially those with special educational needs. By facilitating this sales exposure, Sands China helped nurture confidence, vocational skills, and community integration among participants. Feedback from community representatives emphasized how the carnival has transformed service users from being passive recipients of services into active contributors who showcase their skills and talents.

“For young rehabilitated individuals, the carnival is a significant opportunity to demonstrate their value. It allows them to generate a sense of accomplishment,” shared Chan Chi Neng, the manager of the Noah Youth Growth and Development Centre. “We are thankful for Sands China's support in elevating our community's awareness of their potential.”

Collective Efforts of Community Support

As a testament to the event’s importance, Sands China reaffirmed its commitment to community collaboration by working alongside local businesses and government entities. Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice-chairman of Sands China, noted, “This event has significantly contributed to the local economy and social development by attracting communities together, fostering mutual aid, and demonstrating the impact of supportive networks.”

The partnership with various local organizations highlights the shared aspirations for a cohesive community where every individual is valued, and everyone has a role to play. The carnival is more than just an annual event; it symbolizes the perseverance and unity of Macao's residents and the importance placed on progressive community involvement.

Looking Ahead

As the Sands Shopping Carnival continues to evolve over time, plans for next year's event are already underway. Sands China aims to expand its outreach, elevate community engagement, and ensure that local SMEs and organizations remain at the forefront of this annual celebration.
Joining hands with diverse stakeholders, Sands China is committed to driving future successes while building a more inclusive and vibrant community spirit in Macao. As the carnival embarks on its next chapter, the anticipation and enthusiasm among community members and organizations promise to keep the spirit of the Sands Carnival shining bright for many years to come.