Singapore Visitors Guide for Chinese New Year 2025
Chinese New Year (CNY) in Singapore is a vibrant and culturally rich experience, blending traditional festivities with modern celebrations. In 2025, the Year of the Snake, the city comes alive with dazzling decorations, lively performances, and mouth-watering food. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your visit during this festive season.
1. Chinatown: The Heart of CNY Celebrations
Chinatown is the epicenter of CNY festivities, offering a sensory overload of lights, sounds, and flavors.
- Street Light-Up: From January 10 to February 27, the streets are adorned with stunning lanterns and decorations themed around the Year of the Snake. Don’t miss the iconic light displays along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road.
- Festive Bazaars: Explore bustling markets selling traditional snacks like pineapple tarts, bak kwa (barbecued meat), and festive decorations. The Chinatown Fair at Sago Street and Temple Street is a must-visit.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy lion and dragon dances, traditional Chinese opera, and martial arts demonstrations at Kreta Ayer Square.
2. River Hongbao at Gardens by the Bay
One of Singapore’s largest CNY events, River Hongbao, takes place from January 27 to February 5 at Gardens by the Bay.
- Lantern Displays: Marvel at larger-than-life lantern installations, including a towering God of Fortune lantern and a nostalgic Retro Snake Game display.
- Cultural Performances: Watch live music, opera shows, and martial arts demonstrations. The event also features a vibrant food street and carnival rides.
- Firecracker Show: Catch the rare firecracker display on the first three nights of the festival.
3. Chingay Parade: A Multicultural Extravaganza
The Chingay Parade, held on February 7–8 at the F1 Pit Building, is a dazzling showcase of Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
- Theme: The 2025 parade celebrates Singapore’s 60th anniversary with the theme “Joy,” featuring food-inspired floats and performances by over 4,000 artists.
- Highlights: Look out for the 60 lion dancers, multi-ethnic drummers, and a 360-degree parade layout.
4. Festive Food and Dining Experiences
Food is central to CNY celebrations, and Singapore offers a feast of traditional and modern dishes.
- Yu Sheng (Prosperity Toss): Join locals in tossing this raw fish salad for good luck. Popular spots include Jumbo Seafood and Din Tai Fung.
- Festive Menus: Indulge in CNY-themed dishes at restaurants like Peach Garden and Hai Tien Lo. Don’t miss nian gao (glutinous rice cake) and pineapple tarts.
- Hawker Centers: Visit Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat for affordable and authentic CNY treats.
5. Family-Friendly Activities
Singapore offers plenty of activities for families to enjoy together during CNY.
- Universal Studios Singapore: From January 22 to February 15, the park features festive decorations, character meet-and-greets, and special performances inspired by Kung Fu Panda.
- LEGO at Suntec City: Kids can participate in interactive activities like building a LEGO Koi fish and sharing their wishes for the new year.
- SEA Aquarium: Witness an underwater dragon dance performed by divers amidst the aquarium’s stunning marine life.
6. Temple Visits and Cultural Immersion
Temples play a significant role in CNY celebrations, offering a peaceful retreat from the festivities.
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Located in Chinatown, this temple hosts special rituals and blessings during CNY.
- Thian Hock Keng Temple: One of Singapore’s oldest temples, it is beautifully decorated for the festivities and offers insight into Chinese Taoist culture.
7. Shopping and Festive Promotions
CNY is a great time to shop for festive goods and enjoy exclusive promotions.
- Orchard Road: Luxury malls like ION Orchard and Takashimaya feature CNY-themed decorations and sales.
- Bugis Street: Known for its affordable goods, this bustling market is perfect for picking up souvenirs and festive trinkets.
8. Practical Tips for Visitors
- Book Early: CNY is a peak travel period, so secure accommodations and event tickets in advance.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear red or bright colors to align with the festive spirit. Avoid black or white, as they are associated with mourning.
- Respect Traditions: When giving red packets (ang pao), use new banknotes and avoid amounts with the number 4, which is considered unlucky.
Singapore’s Chinese New Year celebrations are a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re marveling at lantern displays, indulging in festive delicacies, or joining in cultural performances, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories.
