Chinese New Year

2025 is the year of the Snake, starting from January 29, 2025 (Chinese Lunar New Year Day) and lasting until February 16, 2026. If you were born in 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013…, your Chinese zodiac sign is the Snake.

Chinese New Year in Singapore is one of the biggest celebrations on the event calendar. Generally celebrated in January or February each year (the date fluctuates), this event marks the transition from summer to winter.

If you are in Singapore during the Chinese New Year, check out some of the planned events. You will learn a great deal about the rich Chinese culture that continues to influence Singapore today.

Symbolised by one of the twelve zodiac animals, this period of renewal and celebration is marked with family reunions, gatherings among friends and island-wide festivals where all are welcome.

The ‘main public event’ of Singapore’s Chinese New Year season is indisputably the Chingay Parade. The Chingay Parade is undoubtedly one of the most important events in Singapore, and it’s when street floats, clowns, dancers, acrobats, jugglers and many other performers can be seen in the celebration of the Chinese New Year. The parade’s origin is in China, where processions were made in honour of the Lunar New Year for two weeks in preparation for the arrival of spring. You must purchase tickets to attend, and the parade is typically celebrated at the F1 Pit Building (next to the Singapore Flyer).

Also, the River Hongbao celebration is considered one of the main celebrations of the Chinese New Year. It typically occurs at Gardens by the Bay and along the Esplanade Waterfront Promenade. This is a family event where various entertainment and cultural events are suitable for all ages.

Bring your family and enjoy the sumptuous Chinese cuisine that characterises the culture. Many restaurants will serve a special meat porridge that precedes a delicious pineapple tart called ‘Ong Lai’, a symbol of good luck. This will be followed by peanut cookies, which are meant to represent longevity. Afterwards, join the locals and toss a fish salad into the air. The higher you throw it, the more prosperity will come your way.

Typically, the following events are scheduled for Chinese New Year in Singapore:

• • Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations Official Light-Up and Opening Ceremony: at Kreta Ayer Square
  • Street Light-Up: Along New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street and South Bridge Road
  • Countdown Party: at Kreta Ayer Square
  • Festive Fair and Food Fair: Along Smith Street, Pagoda St,  Trengganu St, and Temple St
  • Trade Fair @ People’s Park: at the Open space in front of OG People’s Park Complex

You can enjoy the distinctive Chinese fireworks all over the city. Come down to Marina Bay and enjoy the fireworks from the shore, one of the tall buildings, or the Singapore Flyer.