After writing about the top festivals in Thailand, it was only right to discuss the top festivals in Singapore! It was so hard to choose between the many due to the fact that each one is extremely different from the rest. From Taoist to Muslim to Hindu beliefs, the festivals of Singapore are worldly. The five below are some of the best festivals with only two being true Singaporean festivals.
1) Chinese New Year
When: Days 1 to 15 of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar (usually during the first two weeks of February)
The two long and exciting weeks of Chinese New Year are anticipated each year with such a high population of Chinese. It’s safe to say that Singapore has the closest festival to the real thing. The streets of the city become alive, especially in Chinatown. Highlights include the Street Light Up, Chingay Parade and the River Hong Bao.
2) National Day
When: August 9th
It would be extremely rude not to mention Singapore’s birthday! The nation was born in 1965 and is growing stronger and stronger each year so there is reason for such a grand celebration. Each year on August 9th, Singaporeans hold their flags high and celebrate with several traditions including a massive firework display.
3) Hungry Ghost Festival
When: The 15th night of the seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar (usually in August)
Observed by Taoists, Buddhists, and Chinese folk religion believers, the Hungry Ghost Festival is believed to be the time when the gates of hell open, resulting in a mixed environment of living and deceased. Therefore, main festivities are circled around warding off the deceased. The living do this by burning incense, joss paper, candles, and fake money. They even put on performances and leave the first row empty (for the dead)!
4) Singapore Arts Festival
When: End of May to end of June
The second true Singaporean festival, the Singapore Arts Festival is for all culture buffs. Each year from the end of May to the end of June, the city becomes a mecca of the arts with theater acts, international dance ensembles, music and art installations. There’s some great talent to be seen and heard!
5) Hari Raya Aidilfitri
When: The first day of the month of Shawal (usually in August)
With such a strong Muslim community in Singapore, this list would not be complete without one of the biggest Muslim holidays, Hari Raya Aidilfitri. This day marks the end of the fasting Ramadan month. This colorful festival brings Kampong Glam and Gelang Serai to life complete with performances and street bazaars selling everything from wind-charms to yummy treats.
Photos by Nestor’s Blurrylife, kyeniz, photo_gratis, kodomut and coolinsights
