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The 2026 Sands Shopping Carnival: A Landmark Event in Macao

The annual 2026 Sands Shopping Carnival, held from July 23 to 26 at The Venetian Macao, proved to be a spectacular success. This year, the carnival attracted nearly 160,000 visitors in just four days, achieving the highest attendance record since its inception, with cumulative visits since 2020 surpassing 800,000.

This marks the seventh edition of the carnival, which has evolved into one of the largest shopping events in Macao. This year's event showcased more than 580 booths across eight themed exhibition areas, including the largest food court seen at the carnival, and introduced exciting new zones like the Sports Experience Zone. The carnival showcased a variety of cultural brands from the Greater Bay Area, further enriching the overall experience for attendees.

Among the many attractions this year, the ICBC ePay Presents Greater Bay Area Karaoke King Singing Competition stood out, witnessing participation from around 150 talented singers across the region. The competition's growing appeal was highlighted by the fact that over half of the participants hailed from Hong Kong, showcasing the event's regional significance. The atmosphere was electric, with performances that enthralled audiences, reflecting the carnival's vibrant spirit.

In addition, the Busking Corner attracted numerous singing enthusiasts eager to share their talents on stage. This lively addition not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community among attendees. Professional singers further enhanced the carnival's atmosphere with their performances, creating a celebratory vibe that permeated the event.

The carnival additionally showcased its commitment to community and social responsibility. This year, 20 local social service organizations participated, allowing disadvantaged groups to exhibit their talents and integrate more fully into society. The event aimed to empower these groups by providing practical experiences and opportunities to promote their handmade products. This initiative not only enhances skills but also builds confidence within the community.

Families were catered for with various activities designed to encourage local participation. The BOC Smart Kids Presents Little Master Chef Workshop drew nearly 3,000 young chefs, who relished the hands-on cooking experience, supported by Sands China's food and beverage team. The carnival also featured an area dedicated to children, offering inflatable attractions, game booths, and exciting activities, all designed to foster family bonding and engagement.

Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., celebrated the carnival's conclusion, noting its evolution from an SME initiative into Macao's largest consumption event. He expressed gratitude to the Macao SAR government and societal stakeholders for their unwavering support of the event, underscoring the significance of collaboration across sectors.

Macao's Tourism+ policy encourages these events as part of the city's broader economic diversification strategy. The carnival not only promotes local SMEs by offering 4,000 complimentary booths to businesses but also attracts visitors from across the Greater Bay Area. This aligns with Sands China's broader vision of establishing Macao as a leading hub for tourism and leisure.

Looking ahead, Sands China plans to leverage the success of the carnival to further connect local SMEs with community partners. The aim is to continue fostering economic growth while enhancing the visibility of Macao's unique offerings as a vibrant shopping destination.

The 2026 Sands Shopping Carnival illustrates the power of community collaboration, entertainment, and business opportunity, helping to solidify Macao's reputation as a vibrant melting pot of culture and commerce.