Racial Harmony Day: Talk to Kids About

Racial Harmony Day 2024 is already in Singapore! Why do we celebrate Racial Harmony Day? What is Racial Harmony Day in Singapore? Why is Racial Harmony Day important? When is Racial Harmony Day in 2024? Well, it is such an important topic that raises so many questions. Especially if you are happy parents of little adventure seekers exploring an incredible world around them. The BusyKidd team invites you to dig a bit deeper into this issue, see the meaning of this celebration, and check out what Racial Harmony Day 2024 has prepared for all Singaporeans and city guests.

First, let’s talk about Racial Harmony Day’s history and meaning.

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Concerts in Singapore: Should You Bring Your Kids?, Teachers’ Day Gift Guide.

Racial Harmony Day: General Information

Racial Harmony Day was launched in 1997 by the Ministry of Education in schools. It is a celebration of commitment to racial and religious harmony and a way to promote understanding and respect, reinforce our nation’s dedication to unity, and prove that everyone is an equal member of our community, regardless of race and religion.

Which country celebrates Racial Harmony Day? Probably, you all know the answer. It is a significant and beloved holiday celebrated in Singapore. Is Racial Harmony Day a public holiday? No, Racial Harmony Day is not a public holiday in Singapore.

When is Racial Harmony Day in 2024? Racial Harmony Day 2024, just like every Racial Harmony Day, is observed in Singapore on July 21. Why is Racial Harmony Day important? It is a significant annual event that commemorates the communal riots of 1964 and promotes racial and ethnic harmony within the nation. It is a day with a huge meaning and a very special mission – to raise awareness of the importance of embracing diversity and fostering understanding. After all, Singapore boasts a multicultural society where each member deserves respect and mutual support. And all parents need to talk to their kids about Racial Harmony Day from an early age. Although the topic is serious and may be difficult for little ones to understand, there are ways to talk about racial harmony in a fun, easy-to-perceive way.

Racial Harmony Day In Schools

Schools and grassroots organizations arrange most activities on this day. For example, students are encouraged to come to school in traditional Racial Harmony Day costumes from other cultures. They play traditional games and participate in various Racial Harmony Day activities in school, such as designing Kolams and Maruthani and Henna hand paintings. Great attention is paid to education on racism and racial stereotypes.

Since July 21, 2024, is not a school day, schools commemorate Racial Harmony Day 2024 on July 19, 2024.

Racial Harmony Day At Home

Parents also play a significant role in promoting their kids’ understanding and appreciation of multiculturalism in Singapore. Our task is much bigger and more critical than choosing ethnic costumes to put on our little ones on this day and tasting ethnic foods together. And not only on Racial Harmony Day. Whether it directly impacts your family or not, you should conduct conversations with your child on this topic – at home, while enjoying a leisurely walk in the nearest park, during a family picnic, etc.

Explain to your kids the importance of unity between different races and ethnicities in Singapore’s vibrant multicultural society. If you still have not talked to your young explorers about Racial Harmony, there is always time to start this conversation. What is the best way to begin? Children’s books, of course. You can choose from a great variety of books with lovely stories and beautiful illustrations that explain the importance of embracing diversity and fostering understanding. Some of the books are:

Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin (author) and Lauren Tobia (illustrator)
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
The Boy In The Whale Suit by Marie Toh
Jane, the Fox and Me by Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault
And others

There are also many books and articles for older children to read and discuss with their parents.

Another ideal option to tell your little explorers more about Racial Harmony is cartoon movies and films for kids. Choose the one that tells about diverse cultures and traditions. What about ‘Encanto’ or ‘Coco’? Your kids will definitely love the ‘Esme & Roy’ series, the ‘Mira, Royal Detective’ series, and the ‘Odd Squad’ children’s live-action educational television series. Fun, evocative, with a significant meaning, these films and cartoons make everyone think (both kids and adults) and feel.

Grab your family and plunge together into an incredible world of different cultures. Visit the museums, attend exhibitions, and take interesting educational tours. Spend this evening in an Indian or Mexican restaurant and try new cuisines. Visit markets and festivals that celebrate different cultures. Learn more about their traditions and take part in engaging workshops. Have a fun and meaningful time with your little ones.

Besides, you can engage your child in the conversation via various kids-friendly Racial Harmony Day activities for preschoolers and older kids, like:

Decorating your home with Racial Harmony Day decorations, like Racial Harmony Day drawings and posters, etc. By the way, why don’t you make those decorations together with the kids? Thus, we move to…
Enjoying Racial Harmony Day art and craft: cutting out paper dolls, colouring Racial Harmony Day colouring pages, making Racial Harmony Day bookmarks, etc. Or you can use your own family Racial Harmony Day craft ideas.
Playing with themed cards (like food, clothes, recipes from around the world, etc.). You can buy the cards or even make them with your little ones. Play and discuss.
Organizing a real food festival at home.
Playing Racial Harmony Day games, like Race Unity Word Search, Five Stones, Zero Points, Hopscotch, and others.
And many others

Actually, you can use any of your kids’ favourite activities to tell them about Racial Harmony Day, right? Just get a little creative – and enjoy precious moments with your family.

Attending various Racial Harmony Day dedicated activities with your kids is also a great way to gain a deeper appreciation of racial harmony. Moreover, the choice is impressive. Follow the announcements – and you will definitely find something interesting for kids of all ages.

Racial Harmony Day 2024

Racial Harmony Day is a long-awaited holiday since it brings many exciting and meaningful family-friendly activities aimed at celebrating our country’s diverse cultural heritage. Traditionally, Racial Harmony Day 2024 has also prepared something special for all Singaporeans and visitors to the city. Are you ready for the Racial Harmony Day 2024 celebration?

So, let’s check the list of themed Racial Harmony Day 2024 activities not to miss with your nearest and dearest.

Racial Harmony Day 2024 Theme

By the way, what is the theme for Racial Harmony Day 2024? The Racial Harmony Day 2024 theme is ‘Singapore: Our Multicultural Mosaic.’ The theme emphasizes Singapore’s rich diversity that makes up its multicultural society.

Racial Harmony Day 2024 Activities

While main Racial Harmony Day 2024 activities take place at Singapore’s schools on July 19, 2024, a great choice of exciting and heart-warming Racial Harmony Day 2024 things to do take place in Singapore throughout July. Yes, a whole month of excitement, inspiration, and love for your community!

People’s Association: Celebrating 64 Years Of Promoting Racial Harmony In Singapore

The People’s Association (PA) is a non-profit organization. It was established on July 1, 1960, as a statutory board to promote racial harmony and social cohesion in Singapore. The organization aims to ‘build and bridge communities in achieving one people, one Singapore.’ In what way? Through a wide range of programmes, activities, contests, conferences, and various PA events for everyone, regardless of age, race, and religion. Today, the People’s Association boasts over 2,000 grassroots organizations, 100+ Community Clubs, and 5 Community Development Councils.

This year, on Racial Harmony Day 2024, the People’s Association celebrates 64 years of promoting racial harmony in Singapore. Of course, PA invites everyone to celebrate together!

July 7

Queenstown Interfaith Dialogue Luncheon at The Fullerton Hotel. Did you know that food also can bring people together? Learn more about ‘Connecting Through Food,’ treat yourself to delicious meals, enjoy nice talks, and make Racial Harmony Day tasty and interesting. You can join the Queenstown Interfaith Dialogue Luncheon at a price of $10 per person.
Woodgrove Racial Harmony Day 2024 at Atrium @ 888 Plaza. Watch stage performances, sing, dance, get presents, and have family fun. Don’t miss an amazing opportunity to participate in the Racial Harmony Best Dressed Contest. Admission is free for everyone.

July 14

Harmony Extravaganza @ MacPherson CC. Take your kids to MacPherson CC Multi-Purpose Hall for the Harmony Extravaganza! Explore various fringe activities, cultural performances, and even a magic show. And not only this! Free admission! Refreshments are also provided!

July 20

Admiralty YOUnity Walk 2024. Take a scenic walk and enjoy YOUnity Talkshow. Join fun activities and treat yourself to delicious snacks. Be sure to put on your ethnic costumes to win prizes. Admission is free.
Art Unite 2024 Art Exhibition celebrating Racial Harmony Day 2024 at Katon CC. Bright multicultural costumes and exciting fashion show. Entertaining workshops and live demonstrations. Various attractions for the whole family. Absolutely free of charge.
Buona Vista Racial Harmony 2024 and Friendship Day. Come to Buona Vista CC Multi-Purpose Hall, Level 2 – have the Racial Harmony Day 2024 full of excitement and surprises. Live performances, magic shows, food booths, craft workshops, and even more. It’s going to be a memorable celebration. Registration is free.
Ci Yuan Racial Harmony Day. If you are looking for a place to spend this Racial Harmony Day 2024 in a heartwarming atmosphere, head to Ci Yuan CC to celebrate diversity. With colourful performances, handicraft booths, tasty treats, and more. Admission is $4 per pax.
Let’s Celebrate Racial Harmony @ Nee Soon East CC. Watch cultural performances. Play 5 Stones, Congkak, Pick-up-Sticks, and other traditional games. Try various delicacies. Win prizes for the best dressed in ethnic costumes. Have fun and the best Racial Harmony Day 2024. There’s no registration fee!
Punggol Coast C2E & Harmony Circle – Racial Harmony Day 2024 Celebration at One Punggol CC. Head to One Punggol for the most exciting Racial Harmony Day 2024 events. Watch music and dance performances, play fun games, participate in contests, and don’t miss cultural snacks.
Racial Harmony 2024: A Kampong Spirit Fiesta @ Limbang Shopping Centre. Dikir Barat Performance, Delicious Bento Meals, snack and food booths, and lots of exciting Racial Harmony Day 2024 dedicated events. It’s going to be unforgettable. Tickets cost $2 only.
Racial Harmony Carnival @ Sembawang West. Multi-racial food and cultural performances. Best-dressed competition and fulfilling activities. Sembawang West prepared a lively carnival for its residents and friends to celebrate Racial Harmony Day 2024. Tickets price: $2.
Sembawang Central Racial Harmony Day 2024. Games, food, and brilliant performances – spend the Racial Harmony Day 2024 at Sembawang Central and feel its spirit. Have fun and make memories.
Yuhua Father’s Day & Racial Harmony Day 2024 Celebrations. Cultural performances, hawker food stations, lucky draw, and not only this! Two incredible events in one – two meaningful celebrations. Tickets cost $8 per pax.

July 21

Racial Harmony and PAssionArt Village Carnival @ Clementi. All friends of Clementi are invited to spend this Racial Harmony Day 2024 together – with bright performances, delicious food, kampong games, and more. Be sure to join the art-jamming session. Admission is free.
Unity in Harmony @ Boon Lay CC. Join amazing Racial Harmony Day 2024 festivities at Boon Lay CC Multi-Purpose and Basketball Court. Games, cultural displays, a quiz and a magic show, a photo booth, many tasty treats (including ice cream, of course), and even a bouncy castle for little adventure seekers await everyone on July 21. Tickets price: $3 each.

July 27

Punggol West Racial Harmony Day 2024. Batik Painting, Henna Art, Tea Appreciation, DIY Chinese Knot, and more – there are so many exciting family-friendly things to do at the Racial Harmony Day 2024 celebration at Punggol West! Tickets cost $10 per pax and include a Multicultural bento box.

July 28

Northwest Brisk Walk @ Our Admiralty. Enjoy a meaningful walk, learn more about Singapore’s rich cultural diversity, and have a great time. Don’t forget to put on comfortable walking shoes, as you are going to overcome a 3.5-km route full of interesting information and beautiful views.

There may be more Racial Harmony Day 2024 dedicated events in your community, so follow the official announcements.

Besides, you can participate in many other family-friendly Racial Harmony Day 2024 activities in Singapore. The choice of things to do this Racial Harmony Day 2024 is truly wide, so you will easily find something to your and your little ones’ taste!

Other Family-Friendly Racial Harmony Day 2024 Activities

Harmony Fest! ’24 @ Singapore Sports Hub

Explore 4 colour-coded interactive zones, watch brilliant cultural performances, enjoy sports, esports, AR & VR, meet & greet with Singapore’s iconic mascots, and not only this – spend an unforgettable Racial Harmony Day 2024 at Singapore Sports Hub. Be sure to take part in the Lion Dance Workshop!

Where: OCBC Square, Singapore Sports Hub
When: July 6 and 7: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Age: For all ages
Admission Price: Free
More Details

Heartlands in Harmony @ Our Tampines Hub

Enjoy outstanding multicultural performances. Participate in the Ultimate Frisbee Tournament. Explore the Exhibition of Wedding Traditions. Celebrate Racial Harmony Day 2024 with your family and create precious memories.

Where: Our Tampines Hub, 1 Tampines Walk, Singapore 528523
When: July 27 and 28: 10 AM to 6 PM
Age: For all ages
Admission Price: Free
More Details

Racial Harmony Day 2024 Celebration @ Our Tampines Hub

This Racial Harmony Day 2024 at Our Tampines Hub will be fun-filled and adventure-packed. Let’s Embrace – Celebrating Harmony Cultural Performance, The Human Library: Meet a Museum Minion, Tampines Heritage Trail, Storytelling at NLB, Multicultural Cooking Workshop – and this is just the beginning. Get ready for true Racial Harmony Day 2024 excitement!

Where: Our Tampines Hub, 1 Tampines Walk, Singapore 528523
When: July 13 and 14
Age: For all ages
Admission Price: Free admission with ticketed activities
More Details

Racial Harmony Day 2024 Specials @ Kiztopia

Kiztopia invites all little ones and their families to celebrate diversity together – and enjoy an exciting and meaningful time. Watch special stage performances, participate in lively cultural fest, play fun old-school games, and get many surprises for kids and adults.

Racial Harmony Day 2024 Specials take place at Kiztopia’s multiple locations.

Where: Multiple locations
When: July 20 and 21: 1 PM, 2 PM and 4:30 PM
Age: For all ages
Admission Price: Admission charge to Kiztopia applies
More Details

Besides, many engaging workshops, guided tours, storytelling sessions, and other kid-friendly activities await you to make this Racial Harmony Day 2024 truly special.

Each of us is a tiny cog in a giant machine, and this machine functions and develops properly only if all cogs work together. So, take the time to talk to your kids about racial harmony. Be sure to return to these conversations from time to time. No doubt, this will result in growing up tolerant, kind kids who respect each other. After all, they are the future.

Happy Racial Harmony Day 2024!