With up to 75 percent of the population of Singapore being of the Chinese origin, no wonder that the Chinese New Year is one of the most important events of the country's festive calendar.
Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival is a time to honour both traditional deities and familial ancestors. It is celebrated with parades and processions, seasonal markets, performances and, of course, lion dances.
The Chinese New Year Opening Ceremony will take place in Singapore's Chinatown, hence it is the place to head for the best party in town. The Chinatown Street Light Up with lion dancers and fire-eaters performing at Kreta Ayer Square is definitely not to be missed. Festive activities will be on during the whole month of January and culminate on Jan 25–26.
To feel like a local, wear the red colour and be prepared to eat plenty of Mandarin oranges – the golden colour of the fruit brings prosperity and happiness. Other delicacies of the season include buttery pineapple tarts, rich prune lapis (layered cake), crisp love letters (rolled egg biscuits), melt-in-your-mouth kueh bangkit (coconut cookies), spicy shrimp rolls and bak kwa (barbequed meat slices).
Head to Singapore for Chinese New Year (Jan 25–26)
News in Asia
Modern and old-age traditions seamlessly blend together during the colourful celebration of the Chinese New Year in Singapore. This year, the festivities will take place on January, 25–26.