MACAO -- The 33rd Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, organized by the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government tourism office (MGTO), got underway on Saturday night, drawing large crowds of residents and tourists.

The opening performance featured a team from Australia, which presented the theme "Great Southern Land," showcasing the country's landscapes and cultures through a fireworks display. The South African team took the stage next, lighting up the sky with their "Serengeti" show, inspired by the natural beauty of Africa.

A total of 10 teams will compete in 18-minute displays above the sea across Macao Tower on Sept 6, 13, 20, and Oct 1 and 6, according to the MGTO.

A "fireworks carnival" event, coordinated by the General Union of Neighborhood Associations of Macao, also kicked off on Saturday and was scheduled to take place next to the waterfront of the Macao Science Center each evening of the fireworks display.

As the event coincides with the typhoon season, the MGTO said the office will closely monitor weather updates and make timely assessments.