The southern China city of Zhuhai that borders Macao threw several evening parties on December 20 to honor Macao's return to the motherland.

In the Zhuhai City Sports Center, more than 600 actors were singing and dancing on a stage with an artificial white lotus at the center.

Parties were also held at the Wanzai Return Square, Yuanmingxin Park, Jiuzhoucheng Citizens Culture Square, and Dantian Adolescents Culture Square.

Streets in the city were decorated with flags, neon lights, red lanterns, as well as logos and slogans relating to Macao's return.Gongs and drums could be heard everywhere.

Tens of thousands of people flocked to the streets to celebrate and many said they were prepared to spend a sleepless night.