The 23^rd Lotus Exhibition of China combines with the 9^th Macao Lotus Festival to create what is perhaps the largest public happening devoted to a single species of flower since the 17^th century Dutch tulip craze.

Beginning Wednesday 10, the festival will host lotus flower painting exhibitions, lotus photography shows, lotus flower arrangement competitions, a lotus picture and literature exhibition, lotus appreciation eco-tours, a lotus longevity dinner, a lotus planting demonstration, a lotus puzzle competition, a lotus paper folding activity, a lotus-inspired traditional costume presentation, a lotus-themed culinary exposition, and a large lotus art competition and exhibit.

In addition, hundreds of hybrids and subspecies of nelumbo nucifera (lotus plants, of course) will be arrayed in Macau’s many public parks, recreation areas, public squares and popular tourist spots all throughout Macau, bringing to life the festival’s fragrant slogan, ‘The Scent of Lotus Perfumes the City of Macao’ (allergy-afflicted Macau residents, begin stockpiling antihistamines and hunker down). Most of the feature exhibitions and activities will be held on Taipa: along the Avenida da Praia, in the Taipa Houses, and at the Carmo Fair.

The lotus flower plays a focal role in the symbolism of Chinese art and Asian folklore. Indeed, many of Macau’s streets, buildings, and public spaces are named in honour of the flower. Why all the heavy feting over this ancient angiosperm? Come smell, touch, taste, study, read, play, fold, appreciate, assess, listen to, dance to, arrange, and see the flower for yourself.

Wednesday 10-June 28,