Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Chinese New Year
January or February, depending on the lunar cycle. Chinatown turns into a giant lantern-lit market; shops sell seasonal cakes and cookies. Chinese lion dances performed around town to ward off evil spirits for the upcoming year.
Thaipusam
January or February. Ancient Tamil Hindu festival of penance and thanksgiving; devout men attach spikes and metal hooks to their skin to carry steel-arch kavadis (decorated structures bearing offerings) and then proceed from one temple on Serangoon Road to another on Tank Road.
Christmas
Mid-November-January 2. Orchard Road is transformed into a spectacular array of twinkle lights and Christmas displays. Area malls and hotels make it a tradition of trying to out decorate one another.
Dragon Boat Festival
June or July. Dragon-theme boats complete with large teams of rowers and a drummer to set the pace; races in Marina Bay or one of the city’s other reservoirs; honors revered Chinese scholar Qu Yuan.
National Day
August 9. Massive military parade and fireworks spectacular celebrates the day when Singapore was ousted from Malaysia. Held on a floating stage on the marina basin in the heart of the business district.
