The influx of tourists on this island has led the whole world to positively assume that they pronounce this multicultural lifestyle image of Singapore by tying up the people and society with one sociocultural fabric.
Singapore is always jam packed with festivals, events and entertainment, so being part of any one of these social gatherings will definitely make your holiday a memorable one.
Here is a list of a few festivals to experience while you are in Singapore
- Chinese New Year
This by far is the most important festival marked on the Singapore event calendar. It is considered to be a day of grand celebration in the Chinese community and therefore is observed by every Singaporean from all walks of life. During this festival, the activity hub "Chinatown" bustles with colors, people and famous lion and a dragon dance.
The New Year is observed on the first day of the first month in the Chinese calendar and ends on the 15th day.
- Christmas
Be it any international event or a local festival, Singapore offers a splendid choice of having a great holiday experience all-round the year. Singaporean Christmas festivities begin from 17th Dec to 25th Dec with loads of nightly performances, parades a large number of entertaining "last minute shoppers"
The entire Sentosa Harbour front is brightly decorated with lights from 24th Nov and to 31st Dec.
If you are holidaying on this beautiful island during Christmas time then Orchard road will surely be a fascinating place to visit. Visitors and shopaholics can also enjoy massive discounts that are offered during this time.
- Deepavali
If you enjoy the dazzling festival of lights, fireworks and colors then you have to visit the attractive Serangoon Road in Singapore during Diwali.
Deepavali is a festival that highlights the end of harvesting and the return of Lord Rama after 14 years of Vanvaas. This is one of the most important festivals for the Hindu community and is also celebrated with equal spirit in Singapore.
The Indian ethnic quarter of Little India starts a weeklong preparation for this festival of lights. Roadside stalls sell terracotta lamps, flowers and traditional decorative. The street of little India is a must to visit place for this festival. You can also witness festive bazaars, Indian heritage exhibitions, concerts and abundance of Indian delicacies on the streets of Little India. Singapore celebrates this festival by applying henna art on their hands. This historically rich enclave transforming into "the heart of Indian city" celebrating Deepavali is a must watch.
- Hari Raya Haji
Also known as "The Festival of Sacrifice", Hari Raya is celebrated by the Muslim community commemorating the holy pilgrimage to Mecca. This festival starts on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijja, 70 days after the holy month of Ramadan. This day is a perfect time to observe the ethics and practices of the Muslim community.
Kampong Glam, Arab Street and Haji lanes are the best places to enjoy the spirits of Hari Raya Haji with Mint Tea and smoking Sheesha.
- Moon Cake festival
Also known as the mid-autumn festival, The Moon cake celebration is a harvest fiesta that is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of Chinese calendar during the full moon.
The name is derived from a traditional Chinese bakery product called moon cake, which is the main delicacy in mid autumn.
Exactly one month before the festival, moon cakes and other delicacies will start to be sold in the Chinese market. The Moon Cake festival is one of the most important celebrations of Singapore. Joyous family reunions and merry making are one of the biggest festival highlights. Some areas stage opera shows, calligraphy, craft making, storytelling and essay competition.
The Chinese Garden, Singapore River, China Town, Esplanade and Marina Bay are the 5 must see places during this mid-autumn festival. So travel here and soak yourself in the culture, tradition and colors of true china.
Singapore laps many cultures and traditions and this celebration spirit has surely made the island a cosmopolitan "getaway between east and west". Therefore, this city truly represents a great diversity of food and festivals!