Chinese New Year: Where should you go in Singapore?

If you’re not taking the long weekend during the Chinese New Year to do a spot of travelling, there’s still a lot to do in Singapore for the festive season.

Whether you’re new in town and you want to partake in the activities or just looking for a new experience with your family, there is something for everyone in the multitude of events going on for the Chinese New Year.

There are 15 days in the Chinese New Year and you should fill them all with seasonal activities.

Here are a few places you can visit to get into the Year of the Goat.

Chinatown

On the eve of Chinese New Year on Feb 18, the celebratory spirit in Chinatown hits a fever pitch with the Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown party. Usher in the Year of the Goat with a rousing countdown with artistes from Mediacorp. Expect cheery medleys and interactive games, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Feb 18, 9.30pm to 12.30am
New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

Chingay Parade

To celebrate Singapore’s 50^th birthday, this year’s Chingay Parade is the biggest and the grandest since 1973. Presented by 11,000 multi-cultural performers, the parade is specially choreographed with themes like “We Love Singapore” and “Dreams and Hope Singapore”. The parade will take place over two days on Feb 27 and 28 at the Promenade and F1 Pit Building at 8pm. Tickets are available on Sistic.

Feb 27 and 28, 8pm

River Hongbao

Visiting the River Hongbao has been a tradition for many Singaporeans since 1986. Now it is held at the relatively new Floating Platform @ Marina Bay. This lively festival comprises large lantern sculptures , intricate handcrafts and other cultural products. A myriad of activities like carnival games and street opera keeps things interesting. Admission is free.

Feb 17 to Feb 28, 2pm to 11pm
Floating Platform @ Marina Bay

National Museum

Use your public holiday wisely with a fun filled trip to the National Museum. Activities for all ages are available at the museum. You can enter the Singapura: 700 Years Lunar New Year exhibition for free and experience the humble years of Singapore as a fishing village to the independent nation of today. Other activities such as lion dances and story-telling will also be ongoing.

www.nationalmuseum.sg

Chinatown Walking Trail

Take a walking tour around Chinatown for free. Get first hand explanations into the decorations, buy festive goodies at the bustling street bazaar and enjoy the cultural shows at Kreta Ayer Square. The tour is limited to 10 participants and it is held from 2pm to 3.30pm and 5pm to 6.30pm on Feb 7, 8, 14 and 15.
Email [email protected] for enquires and reservation.

Cheryl Lee

Photo: SIPA