This lively harvest festival, celebrated by the Tamil community in Singapore, spans several days. It is a time to give thanks for a successful harvest. One of the event’s highlights is the preparation of a special dish made from newly harvested rice and lentils. Other festivities include vibrant rituals, traditional music, dances and feasts, which add to the joyful and festive atmosphere.

The Lunar New Year is the most important event of the year for Singapore’s Chinese community. Beginning on the first day of the first lunar month, the celebrations last for 15 days and often feature colourful lion dances, drums and festive meals with family. The streets of Chinatown are adorned with colourful lights and lanterns, creating a lively atmosphere, bustling with festive activities.

One of the most colourful events that takes place during Chinese New Year is a dazzling parade of street floats, clowns, dancers, acrobats, jugglers and many other performers. In the Hokkien dialect, the word chingay means “the art of costume and masquerade”. The first Chingay Parade took place in February 1973 and it has become a beloved tradition that continues to this day.

This Hindu festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The event is marked by colourful processions, vibrant music and an awe-inspiring display of faith, where devotees embark on a spiritual journey, piercing their bodies to express their devotion. Central to the celebration are ceremonial items called kavadis, which are used for religious rites and acts of penance.

Marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is the largest annual celebration for the Islamic community. Also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa, the festival follows a period of solemn reflection, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days and engage in acts of kindness. Eid brings a joyful conclusion to this time of spiritual growth and devotion.

To commemorate the birth, death, and enlightenment of Buddha, people gather at Buddhist temples to pray, meditate and make offerings. On this sacred day, the Buddhist flag is hoisted and prayers are chanted, creating an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. Devotees gather to honour Buddha’s teachings, share wisdom and reflect on the path to enlightenment.

Held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this annual festival honours the memory of Qu Yuan, a revered poet from 340-278 BC. The festival centres around thrilling dragon boat races that are accompanied by traditional drumming and dance performances, and people often enjoy zongzi, a sticky rice cake wrapped in bamboo leaves.

Known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” this important Muslim event commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son to demonstrate his obedience to God. Dishes made of meat, a symbol of sacrifice, are typically eaten on this day. During the event, people engage in social visits and shared meals, fostering community spirit through acts of compassion and generosity.

To mark Singapore’s independence in 1965, the city-state transforms into a sea of red and white as people decorate the streets, buildings and homes with national flags. The National Day Parade typically takes place at the Padang, the former National Stadium and The Float @ Marina Bay. Festivities include military displays, multicultural performances and fireworks.

On the 15th night of the seventh lunar month, Singapore’s Chinese community honours their ancestors with elaborate meals and traditional rituals. People make offerings to their ancestors and the streets, especially around Chinatown, come alive with traditional dance, puppet and Chinese opera shows.

Every year, the city comes alive for this high-octane international sporting event. The Marina Bay Street Circuit is renowned as one of the most challenging and unique Formula One tracks in the world. Alongside the thrilling races, the event features an exciting lineup of cultural entertainment, filling the city with an electrifying atmosphere that captivates visitors and locals alike.

Marked by colourful lanterns and delicious treats, this popular festival takes place in the middle of autumn, when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. The event has become synonymous with moon cakes, a traditional pastry filled with sweet bean or lotus seed paste. People also enjoy dragon dances and viewing the moon as part of the celebration.

This vibrant Hindu celebration, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a spiritual event marked by candles, flowers and traditional ceremonies. The Silver Chariot Procession winds through the streets as Little India comes alive with bustling bazaars, dazzling street light-ups and cultural performances.