Celebrations in Singapore
The following are among the most widely celebrated festivals and events in Singapore.
Chinese New Year
While Singapore and its multicultural community celebrate New Year’s Day on January 1, the bigger New Year celebration takes place during Chinese New Year in February. The celebration is island-wide and streets are filled with parades, roaring Chinese dragons, all-night dancing and drinking and a grand fireworks display that illuminates the night. The night markets in Chinatown remain open all night.
Thaipusam
In February, Singapore also celebrates the Thaipusam festival, one of the most controversial Hindu festivals, already banned in India. As part of the celebration, devotees undergo a series of body piercing to show their devotion. The festival culminates with a procession to the Chettiar Hindu Temple.
Vesak Day and Dragon Boat Festival
May is a lively month in Singapore. Celebrations begin with Vesak Day on May 1, which celebrates the birth and death of Buddha and involves many events featuring the release of caged doves to mark the freedom of captive souls. May is also the month of the annual Dragon Boat Festival which honors the death of a Chinese patriot who drowned himself to protest corruption in government. Labor Day is also celebrated in May.
Hungry Ghost Festival
On the Chinese calendar’s seventh month, people believe that the gates of hell open and hungry ghosts wander among the living. To appease the ghosts, Singaporeans offer food, burn incense and perform rites and concerts, including special opera performances.
Ramadan
The Arab Street district, located near the Sultan Mosque, leads the celebration of Ramadan in November, culminating with the Hindu Deepavali festival. Celebrations span three days and are filled with merry-making in the streets. At this time, all of Little India is festooned with lights.
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