A grand float parade and the first of three Chinese New Year drone-enhanced fireworks displays lit up Macao on Thursday, the third day of the Year of the Horse, drawing residents and visitors into festive celebrations.

About 1,300 performers from Macao, Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and others joined the parade, alongside 17 floats, according to the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) tourism office.

After the parade, the sky above the sea near Macao Tower was illuminated by fireworks and 3,888 drones in formation, combining pyrotechnics, music and laser effects. Flowers, a dancing lion, a running horse, and other auspicious patterns were seen in the sky.

Witnessing the spectacular display of sci-tech and tradition, tourists extended their Spring Festival blessings to the nation and the people.

"The moment when 3,888 drones took to the sky was extremely breathtaking, and absolutely beautiful. I felt the progress and development in our country's science and technology. I hope our country will be even more prosperous and thriving in the new year," said Sun Linlin, a tourist from the Chinese mainland.

"Drones represent science and technology, while fireworks represent tradition. The perfect combination of science, technology and tradition left me deeply impressed. I feel the happiness and joy that sci-tech progress brings to the people. Finally, I wish our motherland prosperity and strength, with its people living in peace," said Macao resident Lam Gaa Cyun.