Fireworks cracking overhead, four 30-meter-long colorful dragons began undulating through white clouds, all formed by costumed dancers on the main stage at the east side of Tiananmen Square.

The dragon is a symbol of national unity in China.

Meanwhile, 600 people waved red silk banners and sang a song titled "Flying Dragon" accompanied by traditional Chinese gongs and drums.

In other parts of the world's largest square, dancers dressed as 200 smaller dragons and 100 lions were performing traditional dances to the music on the 1,300-square-meter stage, an ancient folk art form on celebration occasions.

The inspiring song and dance numbers in the midnight festivities were designed to reflect the bond of blood between the motherland and Macao, and to express a brighter tomorrow.