River Hong Bao 2025

One of the most anticipated events of the Chinese New Year celebration is coming. As usual, it promises to bring bright colours, fabulous festivities, fantastic traditions, and lots of surprises to Singapore. Charming lanterns, outstanding performances, exciting exhibitions, and engaging activities for everyone – all the details of this event are permeated with authenticity. This event celebrates Chinese culture and commemorates Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage. It’s time to get ready to celebrate River Hong Bao 2025 – and BusyKidd can’t wait to share some details on this year’s festivities with you.

River Hong Bao: Meaning and General Information

River Hong Bao celebrations God of Fortune Dragon Gardens By The Bay

River Hongbao literally translates as ‘River of Red Pockets’ in Mandarin. Initially, this event took place at Marina Bay by the Singapore River – that’s where ‘River’ came from. ‘Hongbao’ means ‘Red Packet’ – a symbol of luck that is given to kids and unmarried people during Chinese New Year.

This annual event is part of the Lunar New Year festivities in Singapore. The River Hong Bao celebration was founded in 1986 and has become everyone’s beloved tradition and an indispensable part of every CNY.

Nowadays, River Hong Bao is held at Gardens by the Bay, bringing even more charm and shades to this welcoming place. Some of the fest’s highlights include larger-than-life lantern sets, brilliant nighty stage performances, culinary delights at the Food Street, interesting exhibitions, amusement rides, and even more.

Is River Hong Bao free? Yes, this bright event is totally free for all Singaporeans and visitors to the city. So, save the date – and step into the colourful universe of culture and traditions.

River Hong Bao 2025

River Hong Bao a part of Singapore’s 60 years of independence celebration Gardens By The Bay

In 2025, the whole of Singapore will enjoy the 39th edition of River Hong Bao. Yes, just like any event in The Lion City this year, River Hong Bao will also become a bright part of Singapore’s 60 years of independence celebration. So, you can imagine the scale of the festivities! It will be an incredible mix of our country’s rich heritage and modern delights – and it won’t leave anyone indifferent!

Traditionally, all Singaporeans and city guests are invited to enter the Year of the Snake at Gardens by the Bay. This everyone’s favourite place will turn into a festive wonderland full of traditions and excitement from 27 January to 5 February. Gardens by the Bay will be adorned with enchanting giant lantern sets and mesmerizing lights all around. The main stage will be lit up with outstanding cultural performances, including songs, dances, and other entertainment programmes with local and international talents. Be sure to visit the colourful Carnival with the double-storey carousel, thrilling rides, fun games, lots of family-friendly activities, and a vibrant atmosphere. Head to the Food Street for incredible tastes and aromas. And don’t forget to take many bright pictures – to remember this fun-filled time with your nearest and dearest!

Are you intrigued already? Let’s check some of the River Hong Bao 2025 highlights!

River Hong Bao 2025 Highlights

River Hong Bao food street Gardens By The Bay

This year’s River Hong Bao has prepared even more thrilling things to do for visitors of all ages. From SG60-themed lantern displays to fantastic performances and contests – there will be absolutely no time to get bored.

RHB 2025 Highlights:

River Hong Bao painting Gardens By The Bay

Lanterns. When traditions meet creativity, a true beauty is born. Explore enchanting lantern displays nestled between the flora and fauna of Gardens by the Bay. The all-time favourite God of Fortune, ‘The Lion City,’ ‘Joyful Years Ahead,’ and others – each installation is a true masterpiece of art that tells a fascinating story of Singapore and inspires.
Firecrackers. On the first three nights of River Hong Bao 2025, mind-blowing firecracker displays will light up the Singaporean sky in commemoration of SG60. An absolutely must-visit fairy tale!
Nightly Stage Performances. From cultural showcases to beloved local and international talents – be sure to dive into the festive spirit at Nightly Stage Performances. Sing and dance along with people all around. Enjoy the brilliant performances and celebrate Singapore’s diversity.
Exhibition. Visit a fascinating exhibition called ‘Greetings from Afar: Chinese Remittance Letters.’ Learn more about the history of Chinese migration and the tradition of sending remittance letters. Explore amazing artifacts and interactive elements.
Amusement Rides. The Double-Storey Horse Carousel, the Euro Swing, Space Shuttle, Mini Viking, and other thrilling rides – it’s time for ultimate fun and unforgettable moments with your nearest and dearest!
Food Street. Of course, River Hongbao won’t be full without the incredible aromas and tastes of the Food Street. From local delights to overseas favourites – no one will go hungry!
River Hong Bao Booths. Cultural showcases, mouthwatering treats, and fantastic shopping opportunities – be sure to visit every booth at River Hong Bao because each has prepared lots of surprises for all guests.
RHBHacks 2025. Get acquainted with innovative products of RHBHacks 2025 competition winners. See the future of Singapore.

Wow, each of the RHB highlights is absolutely worth a visit – and it seems even a week won’t be enough to explore everything!

River Hong Bao live stage performance Gardens By The Bay

River Hong Bao 2025: Visitors Information

River Hong Bao celebration kids Gardens By The Bay

We highly recommend that you download the River Hongbao map before your visit so that you can enjoy your time at this enchanting event to the fullest.

How to get to River Hong Bao 2025?

You can get to the event by MRT: Alight at Bayfront MRT Station, Gardens by the Bay MRT Station, or Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (then hop onto bus 400 and alight at bus stop 03371 along Marina Gardens Drive).

You can also get to River Hong Bao by car. However, note that traffic may be heavy during this period, and parking spaces are limited (available at the Main Entrance, Bayfront Plaza, The Meadow, and Satay by the Bay).

As always, admission is free! No tickets and pre-registration are required! Only your presence and good mood!

Please note that you have to undergo bag checks at the entrance checkpoints.

Where: Gardens by the Bay: Golden Garden, Supertree Grove, The Meadow, The Colonnade & Dragonfly Lake
When: 27 January to 5 February:
- 27 January: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- 28 January: 6:30 PM to 12:15 AM
- 29 January to 5 February: 2:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Age: For all ages
Admission Price: Free
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