As a city with a melting pot of cultures and religions Singapore unsurprisingly celebrates a variety of colourful festivals each year. Here are some of the more popular celebrations that you’ll want to catch if you’re ever visiting the Lion City.
Lunar New Year
This is the most significant festival for Singapore’s Chinese community when families get together to decorate their homes and share festive meals. This is also the time of year when Chinatown is at its busiest with lion dances, vibrant decor and yummy street eats.
Thaipusam
This annual two-day festival is a cultural cornerstone of Singapore’s Hindu Tamil community. Held in honour of the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, the festival lights up Little India, a vibrant neighbourhood close to Novotel Singapore on Kitchener, and you’ll see devotees carrying pots of milk and colourful altars in procession through the street.
Vesak Day
The Buddhist community in Singapore comes together on this day to commemorate the Buddha’s life and enlightenment. Visiting any of Bangkok’s temples is one of the popular activities to do in Singapore during this time and is a great way to witness the various prayers, chants and offerings being held.
Hari Raya Puasa
Also known as Eid Mubarak, this festival is celebrated by Muslims when the Ramadan month ends. If you’re out and about in the city, you’ll see many devotees dressed up in colourful traditional clothing, as well as the sight of many busy bazaars and stalls alive with customers.