Сhinese New Year 2024: Best Events and Activities in Singapore

Step into the enchanting world of Chinese New Year 2024 in Singapore! This article will take you through the city’s most exciting events and activities. From lively parades to delicious food fairs, Singapore is brimming with festive charm during the Year of the Dragon. The Year of the Dragon brings energy and courage to the Chinese zodiac. It’s a time of strength and transformation. Born under the dragon, people are seen as natural leaders with innovation. In 2024, this mythical creature will symbolize good fortune, inspiring new beginnings. Join us as we uncover the best ways to celebrate this special occasion, creating lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Chingay 2024 returns to the F1 Pit

Image Credit: Сhingay.gov.sg

Experience an unforgettable Chinese New Year at the 2024 Chingay Parade! This year, it’s all about a stunning floral display, marking the Year of the Dragon with style. The theme, ‘Blossom,’ signifies growth and prosperity for Singapore’s individuals and community. The parade boasts six captivating acts featuring vibrant costumes, special effects, and diverse performances like stilt-walkers and singers.

Look out for Singapore’s most extended floor projection, creating an enchanting garden. Discover Instagram-worthy backdrops at PAssionArts Street and beautiful blossom-themed art installations made by students from recycled materials. Engage in art activities inspired by these mesmerizing installations at PAssionArts Street. The 2024 Chingay Parade celebrates unity, growth, and creativity.

• Date: February 23 and 24, 2024 | Time: 8 pm
• Where: F1 Pit, Marina Bay Street Circuit, 1 Republic Boulevard, Singapore 038975
• Tickets: Chingay Parade tickets range from $20 to $60. PAssion Card Members enjoy a 20% discount
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River Hongbao 2024

Image Credit: Riverhongbao.sg

River Hongbao, an annual Lunar New Year event in Singapore, started in 1986 with the help of the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Association. It showcases Chinese cultures and traditions, including the symbolic ‘Hongbao’ or Red Pocket, which is believed to bring good luck.

Gardens by the Bay transformed into a magical garden with over 18 lantern sets along the River Hongbao. The event offers diverse entertainment, including performances by Chinese cultural troupes, Getai singers, and appearances by Mediacorp artists. Explore the Greetings and Blessings exhibition, showcasing Chinese New Year cards from the past.

River Hongbao isn’t just about culture; it’s a feast too! Enjoy tasty treats from food stalls and have fun with your family in the carnival atmosphere. There’s something for everyone, from the double-story carousel to bumper boat rides. Don’t miss the bright lanterns, symbolizing wishes for a brighter future. Stay tuned for more details.

• Date: February 8, 2024, to February 17, 2024
• Where: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Downtown Core, Singapore
• Tickets: Free
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Rhapsodies of Spring 2024 Concert

Embrace the Year of the Dragon with enchanting musical performances from the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. In 2024, anticipate a refreshing musical experience enriched with new elements. CAPTIAL958 DJs host the Rhapsodies of Spring 2024 event. Experience a variety of captivating performances, including thrilling shows by Drum Feng and the Taman Jurong CC Juboon Dragon & Lion Dance Troupe. It’s a unique blend of entertainment that adds vibrancy to the celebration. Sheng musician Kevin Cheng will grace the stage with his rendition of the “Spring at the Seaside” Sheng Concerto. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of these musical performances and set the tone for a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration.

• Date: January 26 and 27, 2024 | Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Singapore Chinese Orchestra Concert Hall, 7 Shenton Way, Singapore 068810
• Tickets: from $20 to $80
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Celebrate Lunar New Year with SAFRA

Prepare to join the Year of the Dragon festivities at all seven SAFRA clubs. Expect lively parades, energetic dragon dances, and other exciting events and promotions. Whether you enjoy watching performances or participating in interactive activities, their celebrations blend tradition with a great time.

Embark on a festive journey with SAFRA’s Lunar New Year celebrations, featuring a dazzling array of events and opportunities for pure excitement and joy:

• Experience the thrill of the Lion and Dragon Dance Spectacular with vibrant colors and captivating performances.
• Receiving a special gift for each guest.
• Solve puzzles for a chance to redeem a free FROZT popsicle.
• Be one of the first 200 SAFRA members to spend a minimum of $18 and redeem a sure-win scratch card at SAFRA club tenants.
• Explore Chinese zodiac sign predictions for 2024.
• Snap a photo with iconic food standees at SAFRA clubs, share it on Facebook with #LNY2024withSAFRA, and stand a chance to win vouchers.

Prepare for a fantastic year ahead, full of positive energy, community spirit, and enjoyable moments!

• Date: January 27 – February 25, 2024
• Where: Multiple
• Tickets: Depends on the event
• More Details

Special tours at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre

Explore the intricacies of Chinese culture during Chinese New Year with complimentary tours hosted by the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre. The tours offer insights into the origins of daily habits, such as the tradition of enjoying kaya toast for breakfast and the meaning behind terms like “kopi siudai.” Delve into the evolution of customs like love during Chinese New Year, unraveling the cultural significance of these practices. This event allows participants to gain a nuanced understanding of Chinese Singaporean traditions and customs, fostering appreciation for the cultural diversity within the community.

• Date: The nearest dates are January 6, March 2, and March 23, 2024 | Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am
• Where: 1 Straits Boulevard, Singapore 018906
• Tickets: FREE
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Dahlia Dreams: Year of the Dragon

Experience the magic of the Year of the Dragon at Gardens by the Bay’s annual Chinese New Year floral display, Dahlia Dreams. Walk into a world filled with natural wonders featuring lively dahlias and majestic dragons that symbolize peace, strength, and prosperity for the Lunar New Year. This enchanting showcase at Gardens by the Bay invites you to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and appreciate the beauty of nature during this special celebration. It’s an excellent opportunity to gather your loved ones and enjoy the tranquil yet vibrant setting as you usher in the joyous spirit of the new year.

• Date: January 19, 2024 – February 25, 2024 | Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
• Where: Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
• Tickets: Admission charge to Flower Dome applies
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Museum Roundtable Hongbao 2024

Image Credit: Nhb.gov.sg

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with the Museum Roundtable’s Hongbao Campaign. In its 10th edition, the 2024 Museum Roundtable (MR) Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign brings a festive fusion of tradition and creativity. From January 12 to February 9, 43 museums and galleries will offer visitors exclusive red packets inspired by the Year of the Dragon. Each set features eight unique designs, reflecting the essence of the participating cultural institutions. The campaign adds a celebratory touch to the Lunar New Year and encourages cultural exploration, inviting participants to connect with the rich heritage of Hong Kong’s diverse museums and galleries. This website page shows which museums and galleries are joining the event. You’ll find information on where to get the red packets and what you need to do to collect them.

• Date: From 12 January to 9 February 2024
• Where: 61 Stamford Road #03-08, Singapore 178892
• Tickets: The red packets are free of charge, but visitors may have to pay for admission to the museums
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Chinatown 2024 CNY Street Lantern Light Up

Image Credit: Chinatownfestivals.sg

Celebrate the start of the Year of the Dragon 2024 in Chinatown. Enjoy festive activities like the official street light-up. Chinatown will be full of colorful lanterns and decorations during the celebrations. It’s the perfect place to experience the spirit of the Chinese New Year. Experience the magic of the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebration 2024 with the dazzling street light-up. A standout feature is the dragon lantern on New Bridge Road, offering a better viewing experience compared to last year’s rabbits. Take in the enchanting lights and lanterns along New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street, Upper Cross Street, and South Bridge Road. On the first day of Chinese New Year, the lights will stay on until 6 am, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

• When: From 19 January to 9 March 2024, from 7 pm to midnight
• Price: Free
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Chinatown’s Festive Fair and Weekly Shows

Experience the lively atmosphere of Chinatown during the upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations. This event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive spirit, with the promise of delicious Chinese cuisine and captivating performances. Traditionally, the streets come alive with colorful displays, including lion dances and a tempting Chinatown festive fair showcasing a variety of culinary delights.

Join Chinatown Festivals at Kreta Ayer Square for the CNY Official Light Up and Opening Ceremony on January 19, 2024, at 6 pm. If you can’t make it in person, tune in to the livestream on their Facebook and YouTube pages. Experience a night of exhilarating live performances that will fill you and your family with the vibrant spirit of the Chinese New Year.

• Where: 21 Banda St, Singapore 050005
• When: 19 January 2024; 6 pm
• Price: Free
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Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2024

Image Credit: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall via Instagram

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall during the Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2024! Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with hands-on workshops like dragon lantern making and dragon’s beard candy crafting. Enjoy family-friendly activities such as lion dance workshops, heritage trails, storytelling, and food tasting. The festivities include musical Chinese music performances by the Singapore Chinese Orchestra and Reverberance. Don’t miss the chance to capture memories beside the giant inflatable character Dino. Local artist Ziqi designed it with contributions from Japanese artist Yasu (EBINEKOYA). Experience the joyous celebration at SYSNMH!

• Where: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, 12 Tai Gin Road, Singapore 327874
• When: 16 Jan 2024 – 25 Feb 2024; 10 am – 7 pm
• Price: Free admission with some ticketed activities
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Huayi: Chinese Festival of Arts 2024

Image Credit: Esplanade.com

Launched in 2003 for Chinese New Year, Huayi at Esplanade—Theatres on the Bay celebrates Singapore’s multicultural heritage. It aims to be the pinnacle festival for Chinese artists, showcasing outstanding works internationally. Huayi offers diverse artistic expressions through commissions and presentations, spanning traditional to contemporary forms. Committed to promoting Singapore artists globally, it has become a warmly embraced festival and a sought-after platform for Chinese artists worldwide. During Chinese New Year, Huayi invites everyone to enjoy inspiring arts programs and start the year positively.

• Date: February 16–25, 2024
• Where: 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
• Tickets: Prices vary for each event
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Pineapple Plush Making Workshop

Image Credit: Chinatown.sg

Tiny Rabbit Hole offers a workshop where you can make cute pineapple plushies using knitting machines. The knitting machines make the process easy—just turn the crank, and you’ll see yarn transform into fabric. Once the machine does its part, you use needles to shape the fabric into your plushie. It’s a fantastic experience that combines creativity, education, and a bit of festive cheer, getting hands-on with the crafting.

After the workshop, stroll through Chinatown, soaking in the festive New Year decorations, and proudly carry your handmade pineapple plushie. It’s a fantastic way to welcome the Year of the Dragon with something creative and symbolic of prosperity. It’s an excellent activity for all ages, so don’t worry if your kid is too young. If you have kids under 7, they can join in with your help.

• Date: January 27, 2024; Time: 11:30 am – 6:00 pm
• Where: 2 Banda Street, Chinatown Visitor Centre, Singapore 059962
• Tickets: S$60
• More Details

The dragon symbolizes prosperity and adaptability in Chinese culture. The Dragon Year is linked to groundbreaking achievements and breakthroughs. Individuals are urged to embrace challenges and pursue their passions boldly. It’s a time for self-discovery and empowerment, overcoming obstacles collectively. Navigate the Year of the Dragon and harness its energy for new heights.

Cover Image Credit: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall via Instagram

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