• MGM introduced the mega event “Summer Hype” to the Barra District to establish a walkable lifestyle destination in Macau.
• The event empowers young entrepreneurs in cross-industry ventures to co-create a trendy lifestyle community.

This summer, MGM expanded lifestyle and retail offerings in the Barra District with the “Summer Hype” series, a gradual micro-renewal initiative designed to transform the area into a vibrant “community lifestyle hub” that combines trendy commercial components with the warmth of neighborhood life, establishing a new landmark in light commerce within Macau.

The “Summer Hype” series features four major happenings that include leisure attractions, visual design, cross-industry retail collaborations and trendy illustration exhibitions, all aimed at converting the district into an inclusive, multifunctional living space.

The launch event in July, the “BERTILO Drifts in Barra” art installation, turned the district into a must-visit pink-themed destination. MGM collaborated with local bus companies to introduce 10 pink public buses, spreading the charm of the “pink chubby Italian” all over Macau. The initiative also partnered with local F&B vendors to offer a variety of pink-themed snacks from food trucks, supporting SMEs in boosting their business opportunities.

Also in July, MGM unveiled a newly revitalized space in the district – the former Barra slaughterhouse site. In collaboration with the Cultural Affairs Bureau and France’s renowned Centre Pompidou, MGM co-hosted “Fantastic Art World from Centre Pompidou: The Plantamouves”. This interactive event invited Macau’s kids and their parents to “co-craft” a vibrant giant art installation using light, color and lines, fostering a spirit of creativity and engagement.

Additionally, MGM teamed up with the Macao Illustrators Association to launch the the “Barra District Visual Identity Design Contest”, which seeks to develop a unique visual identity for the district. This community-driven project aims to revitalize Barra’s maritime history and industrial heritage through innovative design.

In August, MGM collaborated with Macau’s fashion retailer THE BIG APPLE to host renowned Japanese illustrator Matsui’s first exhibition in Macau, “Matsui’s the dog exhibition”. The event was complemented by themed dining and fashion retail experiences, further establishing the district as a pet-friendly space.

Leong Wai Man, Director of the Cultural Affairs Bureau, noted, “In the past, revitalization projects primarily involved only the government and property owners. Now, with the involvement of MGM and a variety of SMEs, the revitalization of Barra district has reached a new dimension, allowing for closer cooperation and innovative models.

“Although Barra district is a historical area, its future holds many possibilities, and can host a wide range of creative projects. I believe future revitalization happenings here will combine the rich historical and cultural elements of the district with innovative elements, gradually sparking a new wave of vitality to the district.”

Kenneth Feng, President and Executive Director of MGM China, said, “Barra District is a newly revitalized place in Macau. MGM’s role goes beyond leveraging our cultural tourism strengths; we are also building community bridges with local partners to co-create a vibrant lifestyle hub.

“We are delighted to see the district becoming a distinctive landmark. Its open and inclusive atmosphere continues to draw the public and SMEs to come and explore its new lifestyle and business models. Together, we are driving Barra District’s future development.”