Macao's tourism market thrived during the combined National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays, with festive events lighting up the city and visitor arrivals surging.

According to the Public Security Police Force of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), a total of 175,991 visitor crossings were recorded as of 5 pm on Tuesday. Figures released by the police force also showed that from Oct 1 to Oct 4, the number of visitor arrivals at Macao's checkpoints continued to rise, reaching over 190,000 on Oct 4 alone.

On the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival, which fell on Monday, "A Full Moon Night at the Ruins of St. Paul's 2025" concert took place as scheduled, drawing crowds to celebrate reunion under the full moon.

"It's my first time spending the Mid-Autumn Festival while traveling, and it feels really special and joyful," said Ms. Wang from Zhuhai of Guangdong province. "I love the blend of various cultures here," she added.

The SAR government rolled out a rich array of cultural and tourism activities. A themed light show at the Na Tcha Temple offered an immersive experience of Macao's intangible cultural heritage -- the Ne Zha beliefs and customs. A boat tour at the Barra Pier allowed visitors to enjoy the city's maritime charm, while a guided tour at the Hong Kung Temple Square allowed tourists to explore community life.

Colorful fireworks also lit up the sky as part of the 33rd Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, held on Oct 1 and 2. Teams from China, Portugal and other countries presented dazzling performances that added a festive flair to the holiday celebrations.

"It's a time for the whole nation to celebrate together," visitor Ye Kenan told Xinhua, as she and her daughters were walking to watch the fireworks display.

As of 11 pm on Oct 2, Macao had welcomed 30 million visitors so far this year, reaching the milestone 40 days earlier than last year and on par with 2019 levels.

Li Xi, executive associate dean of the Faculty of International Tourism and Management, City University of Macao, said the performance of Macao's tourism sector during the National Day holiday was impressive.

"Many districts hosted creative events to attract visitors to explore different parts of the city," he noted.

"With the guidance and support of government departments, various sectors have worked together to enrich Macao's tourism appeal and enhance the sustainability of its development," Li added.