If you are visiting Singapore over the Chinese New Year period, tourism-related activities should be open for business as usual. Do note that most heartland places will be closed for the first two to three days of celebrations.
While it may seem like a ghost town for the most part as the Chinese do their family visitations, you don't have to fret about having nothing to do. There is a slew of exciting activities for all ages to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
Check out our list of what to do over Lunar New Year! The events listed below will be available through the Lunar New Year weekend (Feb 16-18).
This is an eleven-day extravaganza of lights, sights, and sounds to usher in the Year of the Dog. Themed “An Endearing Home for One and All”, RHB2018 portrays how multicultural Singapore builds an endearing and inclusive society which embodies the philanthropic spirit of our pioneers – through thematic lantern displays and an exhibition titled “My Home, My New Year.”
RHB2018 highlights also include fireworks, cultural performances from home and abroad, food street and interactive fringe activities. It is a fun-filled carnival for the whole family to enjoy.
When: Feb 14-24
Where: The Float @ Marina Bay
Entry: Free
2. Spring Surprise (Gardens by The Bay)
Spring Surprise 2018 offers an array of festive performances and fun for the entire family. Try your hands at making traditional Chinese handicrafts, and be dazzled by the magnificent UV lion and dragon dance performances!
On Feb 18, enjoy a refreshing morning yoga session with your best furry-pawed doggie buddy.
When: Feb 14-25
Where: Gardens By The Bay
Entry: Programmes are free, admission to Flower Dome applies.
3. Huayi Chinese Festival of the Arts
Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts is one of four annual cultural festivals at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay celebrating Singapore’s multicultural heritage. It's held at the beginning of every year, during the month of the Lunar New Year.
There are over 100 free performances and activities presented throughout the 10-day festival from 23 February to 4 March 2018.
From Chinese dance to instrumental concerts, clown and puppetry performances to evergreen hits, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
When: Feb 23-Mar 4
Where: Esplanade
Entry: Ticketed and free programmes available
Every year, the Istana Grounds is open to the public in celebration of Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day and National Day.
There will be a variety of performances on the grounds. For an entrance fee of $2 for Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents and $4 for others, visitors could tour selected function rooms in the Istana building and view a special display of gifts presented to the President and the Prime Minister.
There are also guided tours of the Istana building, conducted by the Preservation of Sites and Monuments (PSM) volunteers.
When: Feb 17
Where: Istana
Entry: Free
5. FUN-Tastic Fortune Awaits You at Sentosa
During the first 3 days of Chinese New Year (Feb 16-18, 2018), join in the festive celebrations with lion dance and dragon dance performances, meet & greet sessions with Snoopy!
You can also check your zodiac fortunes at the Snoopy-themed Zodiac Boards at Beach Station (next to iFly Singapore). For convenience, download marq+ app and scan the icon on the zodiac board to access your full Zodiac fortunes, as well as adorable Snoopy AR effects!
When: Jan 19-Mar 4
Where: Sentosa
Entry: Sentosa admission fees apply