Chinese New Year in Singapore is vibrant and filled with festivities. There are so many events going on at the same time that some of us might still not have plans.
To narrow things down, here are some of the destinations we recommend that you add to your checklist for this celebration, presented in a choose-your-own-adventure fashion.
The Reliable Pick: Visit Chinatown
Of course, Chinatown will be first mentioned in this list. The best way to be immersed in Chinese New Year celebrations is to be in a place filled with Chinese culture. Some places you can go to in Chinatown include:
- Chinatown Heritage Centre
- Chinatown Complex
- Tong Ah Eating House
The Independent also compiled a list of Chinese New Year events in Chinatown, some of which you can go to until February 22:
- Chinese New Year Light Up: January 4 – February 22, 2020
- Chinese New Year Countdown Party: January 24, 2020
- Festive Street Bazaar: January 3 – 24, 2020
- Lion Dance Competition: January 11 – 12, 2020
- Chingay Parade in Chinatown: February 2, 2020
The Unconventional Route: Huat Huat Land
In case you want to celebrate Chinese New Year in a different way, you might want to check out the Huat Huat Land in the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre. Get to see gigantic displays of pineapples and mahjong tiles and marvel at a series of murals designed by award-winning local illustrator Lee Xin Li.
You can even redeem an augmented reality (AR) red packet event and see interactive displays depicting various local traditions such as lion dances, lohei, and exchanging of Mandarin oranges. Check out their official website for more details.
For Performance Lovers: River Hongbao Carnival
The River Hongbao Carnival in the Float at Marina Bay is filled with lantern displays, fireworks, and plenty of live performances that you can jam to. If you need to recharge, there are also food stalls around where you can grab something to eat. You also play fun carnival games with you friends and family. Don’t miss out on the colorful fireworks showcase from 8 to 10 pm.
For Festival Enthusiasts: Huayi 2020
The Esplanade Theatre will be showcasing talented Chinese artists and their world-class dance and music performances in Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts 2020. There are also silent movies you can watch while you’re there. The festival will be until the 9th of February so you can come back in case you will run out of time this Chinese New Year.
For an Otherworldly Experience: S.E.A Aquarium
The S.E.A Aquarium will feature an Underwater Dragon Dance where you can see about 40,000 sea creatures exhibit the mystical beauty of the ocean. You will also meet the sea animals Chinese customs associated with wealth and prosperity in case you want to have some good luck.