Tweet

Renowned the world over as one of Asia’s most culturally diverse nations the island metropolis of Singapore is no ordinary holiday destination in the region. As the metropolitan home of a plethora of cultures the Lion City is also a festival capital in Asia with various local festivals celebrated by its multi-ethnic populace decorating its annual calendar. Marked with great pomp and pageantry the festivals highlighting the diverse heritage of Singapore’s vibrant population are nothing short of mesmerizing with the entire city transforming its appearance for the coveted events that are viewed as national celebrations rather than secular events.

The Chinese Lunar New Year is one such festival where the entire country comes together in the month of January to mark the birth of a new year. Characterized by the larger than life Chingay Parade which is deemed Singapore’s most colorful street celebration and the River Hong Bao cultural and shopping mêlée that takes centre stage at the Esplanade Park each year the lunar new year is synonymous with family gatherings and delectable seasonal food that is widely available in Chinatown and other areas of the city.

The month of May is synonymous with the Buddhist festival of Vesak which marks the birth, enlightenment and the attainment of nirvana by Buddhism’s supreme leader Lord Buddha. Mass celebrations in the form of candle lit marches takes place in prominent temples in the city such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Lian Shan Shuang Lin Temple where the faithful flocks to meditate, give alms and chant Buddhist sutras. Charity events and alms giving to the poor are also organized during this period by many Buddhists.

Other red letter cultural festivals include Pongal, a four day harvest festival marked by Tamil communities in the country while November brings the sights and sounds of the Indian New Year Deepavali to the corners of Little India in Singapore. The Mid- Autumn festival which falls in September is best known for Lantern parades and moon cakes whereas The Hungry Ghost Festival is famous for Chinese opera performances and mouthwatering feasts. The Hari Raya Puasa in contrast is an Islamic festival where visitors can sample Malay delicacies and shop in street bazaars.

Travellers in search of luxury Singapore service apartments will be more than pleased with Somerset Liang Court Singapore. Offering guests the best in contemporary facilities and amenities this elegant rest provides serviced accommodation Singapore ranks among the finest in the island.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

Google+

Tweet