Festivals in Singapore

Pongal, the harvest festival of Tamilians, is a much-awaited extravaganza in Singapore. Celebrated around mid-January every year, it is one of the most popular festivals in the country. Pongal is all about thanking the Sun god for his blessings, new beginnings, and indulging in a variety of mouth-watering cuisines. The festival is marked by a series of thanksgiving ceremonies and rituals, and Singaporeans celebrate it for four days. Come and experience the vibrant and colorful festivities of Pongal in Singapore.

Experience the stunning celebration of Chinese New Year in Singapore, which lasts for 15 days, marking the beginning of the Lunar calendar. Witness the entire island adorned with red and Chinese words on the roads, creating a festive and adorable atmosphere. This festival starts with spring cleaning to eliminate negative energies from homes, followed by night markets, feasting, and praying to ancestors. Celebrated on the second new moon after the winter solstice, the Chinese New Year is an opportunity to marvel at the lights and festivities while families come together to celebrate.

Thaipusam is a significant festival in Singapore celebrated by Hindu Tamilians. Devotees thank Lord Murugan for his blessings and gifts. The preparations start a month before the festival with devotees following a vegetarian diet. During the festival, a long procession takes place where devotees carry decorated Kavadi while their bodies are pierced as a ceremonial sacrifice for Lord Murugan. The festival is accompanied by the sound of traditional drums and foot tapping beats, making it a vibrant and colorful celebration of faith and devotion.

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore is a spectacular celebration of the autumn harvest and the ascension of the Moon goddess Chang E to the moon. It's a time when families and kids come together to light a thousand lanterns and enjoy the moon after dark. Mooncakes are a favorite treat among kids, while families host moon-viewing parties and sip on Cassia Wine. A stroll down Chinatown during the festival is a must-do, with lanterns lighting up the alleys and showcasing the best of artistry and craftsmanship. It's a breathtaking sight that will leave you mesmerized.

Vesak Day is a sacred and significant festival in Singapore that marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. Celebrated on the 15th day of the fourth month of the Chinese Lunar Calendar, this day is filled with colorful prayer flags, lit candles, and hymns sung by devotees in honor of Lord Buddha. It is a time for reflection, devotion, and spiritual awakening as people come together to pay homage to one of the greatest spiritual leaders in history. Vesak day is a beautiful and peaceful celebration that brings together people of all backgrounds and faiths in a collective spirit of reverence and harmony.

The Dragon Boat Festival is a colorful and meaningful celebration in Singapore, honoring the revered political minister Qu Yuan. Spectators are treated to the sight of dragon-headed long boats racing to the beat of drums, as teams compete against each other. The festival exudes a sense of unity and pride as people cheer on their preferred team and wave flags with zeal. With a perfect blend of sport, history, and culture, the Dragon Boat Festival is an occasion that showcases Singapore's spirit of camaraderie and patriotism.

Hari Raya Puasa is a sacred festival for Muslims in Singapore, which marks the end of Ramzan. It's a time to celebrate Allah's love and visit the mosques in the morning, followed by visiting the graves of loved ones. The festival is famous for its beautiful lights that sparkle across Singapore. Homes are lit up from the 20th day of Ramzan until the day of Hari Raya Puasa. The festival is a symbol of positivity and goodness, and people celebrate it with great enthusiasm.

National Day in Singapore marks the country's independence and is a celebration of freedom. The island is decorated in red and white, and the army displays discipline and camaraderie through parades. The festival features multicultural performances, energetic displays, and stunning fireworks, making it a must-attend event for visitors and locals alike.

Experience a visual feast during the cultural extravaganza of Deepavali in Singapore. Witness the celebration of good triumphing over evil with bright lights and decorations adorning the houses and streets of Little India. With gifts, sweets, and authentic Indian cuisine, the festival brings people together to exchange conversations and create lasting memories. The area is transformed into a colorful spectacle with strings, floral garlands, and lights a day before the actual celebration, offering endless photo opportunities. Deepavali is one of the most culturally rich and vibrant festivals in Singapore, a must-see for visitors and locals alike.

Hari Raya Haji, also known as the festival of sacrifice, is a significant Singapore festival that commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's trust in God and his willingness to sacrifice his son. Devotees dress up and attend mosque to offer prayers and listen to sermons. Despite being a celebration, cows, sheep, lambs, and goats are sacrificed for God in a ceremony called 'Korban.' After the sacrificial animal is cleaned and cooked, Muslims gather to enjoy a lavish feast and visit each other's homes to socialize.

The Hungry Ghost Festival is a Chinese festival where it is believed that the dead come back to the Earth. However, don't be afraid, as long as offerings are made to them, you can avoid their mischief. People leave money, cars, and jewelry outside in the bins for their dead relatives. The festival also includes Chinese operas and dinners in Ang Mo Kio and Yishun to keep the ghosts entertained and well-fed.

The Singapore International Festival of Arts, hosted by Arts House Limited, is a unique annual festival that promotes various art forms such as music, dance, and visual arts. If you're an art lover, this festival is a must-visit. With a variety of events such as art exhibitions and Shakespearean plays, you can witness an eclectic mix of artistic performances.

The Singapore River festival is an extravagant celebration of multi-cultures, arts, music, and dance by the waters in Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, Empress Place, and Robertson Quay along the Singapore River. It is a week-long festival that takes place every year in September and October, and it features magicians, fun parades, and DJs grooving it up to make you sway and be thankful for life. You can also enjoy entertainment, dining, and good food during this festival. The Singapore River festival is the perfect opportunity to let loose and forget your worries for a week.

The Chingay Parade is a vibrant celebration of Lunar New Year in Singapore, featuring masquerades and costumes that showcase the art of costume and masquerade. This annual extravaganza brings together a myriad of cultures, with a colossal cultural performance by people from different ethnic backgrounds. As Asia's largest street performance and float parade, it offers a breathtaking amalgamation of dance, music, and cultural displays. If you love exploring different cultures and backgrounds, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Singapore's Christmas celebration is a treat for the eyes and taste buds alike. The city is adorned with dazzling lights and delicious food menus, making it a perfect place to experience the holiday season. Stroll through Orchard Road to witness the enchanting decorations and indulge in the festive Yuletide menus. Singapore's multicultural population comes together to celebrate the joy of Christmas, making it a delightful experience for everyone.

Singapore is known for its love of food festivals, and the Singapore Food Festival is a must-visit for any foodie. Showcasing fresh culinary talent and innovation, this festival features noodle dishes, soups, and dumplings, along with classic Singaporean dishes like Bak Kut Teh and wanton mee. The menu also includes delicious treats like soft-boiled eggs, crabs, and stingray meat. Come and explore the gastronomical wonders of Singapore at this exciting food festival.