GALAXY Macao commenced its Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations in regal style by unveiling spectacular holiday displays for visitors to the New Palace of Asia from now till Oct. 12.

During an event held at the resort’s East Square, Macao’s hottest venue for performances and exhibitions, the eight winners from China, Hong Kong and Macao received their awards at the Galaxy Macao Lantern Design Competition 2012. The winning works of art had been featured in an exhibition from Sept. 22 to Oct. 12 for the public’s enjoyment.

First prize at the competition went to Hong Kong’s TK Wong, whose “Glowing Lotus” symbolizes the flourishing of a nation through a blooming lotus accentuated by a moonbeam. First runner-up was Lin Yanhua of China for her “Silhouette of Chrysanthemum,” reflecting the prosperity of her home country with a grand, traditional design. Second runner-up was Chang Ming-lou of Hong Kong with “Silvery Realm,” a Buddhist-inspired lantern adorned with 63 golden orbs that pays tribute to China’s 63rd National Day and the arrival of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Then, audience members were dazzled by the unveiling of a sight fit for royalty: a three-story-high hanging lantern that will attempt to gain the Guinness World Record for the title of the “Largest Hanging Lantern.” The gigantic lantern, measuring 9.5m in height and 7m in diameter, added an additional dimension of palatial splendor to the New Palace of Asia.

“Galaxy Macao is committed to providing diversified entertainment experiences for guests,” said Raymond Yap, senior vice president of International Premium Market Development for Galaxy Entertainment Group. (Maggie Tang)