MACAO, Feb. 15 (Xinhua) -- As the Year of the Horse approaches on the lunar calendar, Macao's streets are glowing with decorations and joy. Neighborhoods and commercial blocks across the city have launched New Year activities.

Flowers remain central to the holiday tradition in Macao. At Tap Seac Square, the annual Chinese New Year market has opened with lively scenes. Food stalls, gift booths, and game stands line the venue. Flower vendors, however, are the busiest.

Staff members at a flower shop that has participated in the market for over 10 years told Xinhua that orchids are the best-selling flowers ahead of the festival. Peach blossoms, believed to bring good luck, are also popular, along with lucky bamboo and money trees, all regarded as auspicious plants.

Some prefer greenery to blossoms. A customer bought a bundle of pomelo leaves. He explained that on the 28th day of the last lunar month, families sprinkle water infused with the leaves around their homes to dispel bad luck and welcome the new year.

Near A-Ma Temple, the "Barra Lucky Blessing Market" has also opened, blending tradition and trends. Nostalgic game booths, hands-on craft workshops, and festive performances attract visitors of all ages.

Art installations add a modern touch. A floating piece, co-created by artists from China and Italy and titled "Lie in Fortune," displays a relaxed and adorable pink God of Wealth, reclining peacefully on the water alongside a gold ingot.

"Our brand usually tries to give a message to be calm, relaxed, and just chill, which suits the Barra district really well," the artist Bertil Butturini said, adding that he plans to explore Macao well during his stay.

Miquelina Hoi, one of the market's organizers, said the event aims to introduce new elements while highlighting contrasts between the old and the new to create a lively atmosphere.

"Right after getting off the light rapid transit, we could already feel the festive vibe," said Ms. Yang, a visitor from Shenzhen. She said she was pleasantly surprised to see traditional culture integrated with creative design. The mix offered her a fresh perspective on the city.

Across the sea in Taipa, the area near the Taipa Houses has turned into a sea of flowers. A Spring Festival-themed flower exhibition runs through the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, or Feb. 22.

The display features Year of the Horse decorations and colorful, auspicious blooms. Residents and visitors stroll through the floral arrangements, enjoying the early spring warmth.

The Public Security Police Force of the Macao Special Administrative Region government earlier estimated that total border crossings between Feb. 15 and 23 will reach between 6 million and 6.21 million. ■