Top 10 CNY events in Singapore

image credits: Singapore  Travel Hub

Chingay Parade

One of the most outstanding CNY events in Singapore, the Chingay Parade is a vibrant mix of spectacular floats, twirling dragons and exuberant dancers. The noise and colors of the annual event are beguiling.  Having started more than 40 years ago to compensate for a ban firecrackers, it is now the largest street performance and float parade in Asia. Typically the event takes place on the first weekend of the Lunar New Year (another name for CNY) and starts at the F1 track before snaking its way to the NS Square. Don’t miss it.

2019 Chingay Parade in Singapore will begin at 8:00 pm on Friday, 15 February 2019, to Saturday, 16 February 2019.

image credits: New Age Parents

River Hongbao Carnival

The River Hongbao Carnival is a keystone of Singapore’s CNY activities. The annual event, which takes place at the NS Square, is a fair of epic proportions featuring lip-smackingly good food, incredible giant lanterns and amusement rides. It’s a noisy, bright, exciting event that brings the city together and leaves everyone with a smile on their face.

2019 River Hongbao Carninval is from 3 February 2019 to 10 February 2019.

Chinatown’s Official Light-Up and Opening Ceremony

If there’s one place in Singapore to celebrate CNY then, unsurprisingly, it’s Chinatown. The Official Light-up and Opening Ceremony is where its celebrations all kick-off. Much like the name suggests, you can expect vibrant colors and some traditional Chinese entertainment to see in the revelries. Make sure to catch the incredible dance groups and the spectacular firecracker and fireworks displays that accompany this fantastic event.

Date: 19 January 2019
Time: 6.00pm – 10.00pm
Venue: New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

image credits: Honeycombers

Huayi — Chinese Festival of Arts

The Huayi festival has been a wonderful celebration of Chinese art since 2003. The annual cultural fiesta showcases the very best of Chinese art in all its forms, from theater and dance to visual arts and much more. The 10-day event takes place at Esplanade — the national performing arts center — and provides an educational twist on the CNY events in Singapore. There’s a little something for everyone so make sure to check out the full events calendar before you arrive.

Fortune Street

Divination masters from across the globe gather at Fortune Street for an intriguing celebration of speculation. The all-seeing fortune tellers meet and greet guests, revealing what lies in store for the new year. With a remarkable mixture of skills on show — including palmistry and astrology — the CNY event is as much educational as it is fun and perfect for those with a young family.

International Lion Dance Competition

No CNY celebration would be complete without watching a traditional lion dance. You will find plenty taking place across Singapore, but the International Lion Dance Competition is undoubtedly one of the most brilliant. The annual event brings banging drums and spectacular costumes to Chinatown for an incredible show of agility, strength and artistry. Troupes come from all over Asia to compete in a bid to be named the very best around.

Istana Open House

Explore the President of Singapore’s very own residence when it’s opened up to visitors. The annual celebration, which takes place around Chinese New Year, is a fantastic chance to explore one of Singapore’s grandest buildings in a unique way. Entrance is free for Singapore residents and just a couple of dollars for visitors. Make sure to check out the insides of the palace before taking a refreshing stroll around the beautiful grounds.

Resorts World Convention Centre celebration

Resorts World Sentosa does Chinese New Year in a big way. Aside from the marvellous Fortune Street event, there are plenty of other excellent festivities to look forward to. The Chinese New Year Live Showcase will be one of the most spectacular in 2019 with performances by the ‘Taiwanese Queen of Mandopop’ A-Mei who will be supported by superstars Anna and Eve Ai.

Spring Surprise at Gardens By The Bay

The annual Spring Surprise sees a host of live performances in the stunning floral setting at Gardens By The Bay. Each year will bring something different, but you can expect plenty of family-friendly activities to help you see in the Chinese New Year. Lion dances, concerts and film showings are typical but make sure to keep an eye on the Gardens By The Bay website for further details.

Chinese New Year Countdown Party in Chinatown

Every new year’s celebration needs an epic countdown — and Chinatown hosts the very best in Singapore. The Chinese New Year Countdown Party, at New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street, is a festival like no other. Typically, the annual event features a fantastic show which includes dances, performances and more. Then, when the time comes, a grand countdown, firecrackers and fireworks mark the beginning of the new year.