Top Festivals in Singapore 2025 Guide
Thinking about visiting Singapore while the festive season ?. Festivals in Singapore are more fantasised as the colourful lights adorn the streets, and the religious areas are full of hymns of traditional songs. This state offers an authentic glimpse into Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and other heritage celebrations year-round.
This makes it the perfect festival destination. From Chinese New Year fireworks to Hindu temple processions, every month in Singapore showcases the beauty of different communities. Read this guide to learn more about the festivals, dates and their importance in Singapore tourism. Also fly for holidays will guide you to the visa process and help you which one is best and or just do it your way customized way
Key Takeaways
- Singapore’s festival calendar is packed with major festivals all year long, symbolising Chinese, Malay, Indian, Buddhist and Western cultural practices in a single multicultural centre.
- The periods January–February (Chinese New Year), March–April (Thaipusam/Holi), and October–November (Diwali/Deepavali) are especially lively in terms of festival celebrations.
- Many festival celebrations are free to experience and photograph a great bonus for travellers.
- Each cultural district transforms during festivals: for example, Chinatown for Chinese celebrations, Little India for Hindu festivals, and Kampong Glam or Geylang Serai for Malay traditions.
- Respectful participation is encouraged locals appreciate visitors showing interest in the cultural heritage with an open mind.
Singapore Festival Calendar 2025: Month-by-Month Guide
Month | Festival | Location | Cultural Origin |
January | Chinese New Year | Chinatown, citywide | Chinese |
Jan/Feb | Thaipusam | Little India, Tank Road | Hindu/Tamil |
February/March | Lantern Festival (Mid-Autumn) | Chinatown | Chinese |
March/April | Holi (Festival of Colours) | Little India | Hindu |
May | Vesak Day | Buddhist Temples citywide | Buddhist |
July | Dragon Boat Festival | Marina Bay, Bedok Reservoir | Chinese |
August | National Day & Singapore Night Festival | Citywide / Bras Basah-Bugis | Singaporean / Chinese |
September/October | Navaratri | Little India | Hindu |
October/November | Diwali (Deepavali) | Little India | Hindu |
November/December | Hari Raya Puasa & Aidilfitri | Geylang Serai, Kampong Glam | Malay/Islamic |
Note: Some festivals like Islamic ones follow the lunar calendar, so exact dates may shift.
So, accordingly the your preference to visit book the best Singapore tour package with the help of proper authorized agency such as fly for holidays.
Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals in Singapore 2025
Chinese New Year 2025 in Singapore: Chinatown & Chingay Parade
For two weeks, Singapore is illuminated during the Chinese New Year (CNY). Red lanterns line the streets of Chinatown, where you can witness lion and dragon dances, lively marketplaces, and the spectacular Chingay Parade featuring aerial performers, floats, and tom-tom sounds.
Where to visit: Chinatown, South Bridge Road, Temple Street.
Celebrated months: ending of January into February.
Tips: Book your hotel early as prices surge. Evening light-up and fireworks at Marina Bay are top photo opportunities.
Thaipusam 2025: Spiritual Procession in Little India
Thaipusam is among the most visually striking of Singapore’s Hindu festivals. Devotees carry elaborate kavadis or pierce themselves as acts of devotion. It’s intense, moving and deeply traditional.
Where to visit: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple (Little India).
Celebrated month: January/February.
Tips: Wear breathable cotton clothes; it gets crowded early morning. Maintain respect for the spiritual significance.
Lantern Festival (Mid-Autumn) 2025: Chinatown Night Lights
The Lantern Festival (Mid-Autumn) marks the end of CNY celebrations. The streets of Chinatown glow with lanterns, and at spots like Gardens by the Bay you’ll find contemporary art-meets-tradition lantern installations.
Where to visit: Chinatown, New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street.
Celebrated month: February (mid-February) in 2025.
Tips: After sunset the lantern glow is best; mooncakes are everywhere — try traditional & modern flavours.
Hari Raya Puasa 2025: Community Spirit in Geylang Serai & Kampong Glam
For the Malay-Muslim community in Singapore, Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr) is a time of togetherness, forgiveness, and feasting. Anticipate lively bazaars, illumination, and warm hospitality.
Where to visit: Geylang Serai, Kampong Glam.
Celebrated month: March/April (in 2025).
Tips: Visit bazaar in the evenings, join the festive iftar (breaking fast) respectfully, wear modest attire.
Vesak Day 2025: Buddhist Rituals Across the Island
Vesak Day commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and demise. Singapore’s temples are calm yet lively, with communal deeds of kindness, candlelit prayers, and bathing-of-Buddha rites.
Where to visit: The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, and other Buddhist temples.
Celebrated month: May (2025).
Tips: Go early to temples, dress modestly, and soak in the quiet spiritual energy amidst city bustle.
Singapore Night Festival 2025: Light, Art & Culture in Bras Basah/Bugis
An illuminated wonderland is created in the Bras Basah-Bugis precinct during the Singapore Night Festival. Anticipate food, music, light art installations, and projection mapping on historic buildings. Its an unforgettable night indeed.
Where to visit: Bras Basah / Bugis area.
Celebrated period: Late August to early September.
Tips: Go on weekdays to avoid massive crowds. Wear comfortable shoes you’ll be walking through art villages.
Diwali (Deepavali) 2025: Little India Lights & Food Markets
During Diwali, Singapore’s Little India turns into a bright and colourful place filled with lights and decorations. Beautiful rangoli designs cover the streets, and the smell of delicious street food fills the air. The festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness and is one of the most joyful cultural events in Singapore.
Where to visit: Serangoon Road, Campbell Lane, Little India.
Celebrated months: October to November 2025.
Tips: Visit after dusk for the light-up; sample sweets and savour street dinners — modest dress appreciated.
Singapore Design Week 2025: Nation by Design
For a modern cultural experience, Singapore Design Week 2025 celebrates how design has helped shape the city over the past 60 years.The event features exciting displays of design, architecture, and urban innovation across different parts of Singapore.
Where to visit: Bras Basah.Bugis, Marina, Orchard, Science Park.
Celebrated dates: 11-21 September 2025.
Tips: Free events mixed with ticketed exhibits; great for design-enthusiasts and photographers.
Singapore Fintech Festival 2025: Innovation & Global Finance
Although this festival is mainly focused on business, it attracts global leaders and innovators from around the world. It includes talks, exhibitions, and networking events, making it a special international event in Singapore.
Where to visit: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre (typically).
Celebrated dates: 12 to 14 November 2025.
Tips: Ideal for tech & business travellers; early registration recommended; if not attending formal events, the booths and side-activities are still worth a look.
Animation Nation 2025: Animation Celebration in Singapore
Animation Nation is a yearly film and animation festival that showcases both local and international talent in the animation world. It’s a smaller, more relaxed event but perfect for art and film lovers who enjoy creativity and new ideas.
Where to visit: Alliance Française de Singapour (and other venues).
Celebrated dates: 10-19 October 2025.
Tips: Great for families and niche culture fans; look out for workshops and local-talent screenings.
Festive Shopping
For festive shopping in Singapore, explore Orchard Road, Bugis Street Market and Chinatown Street Market. During major festivals like Christmas and Diwali you’ll find special markets at places like Gardens by the Bay.
Best Times to Visit for Maximum Festival Fun
- Peak Season (Jan-Mar): Chinese New Year, Thaipusam — spectacular, but expect high prices and large crowds.
- Sweet Spot (Apr-May, Sep-Nov): Vesak Day, Singapore Design Week, Diwali — manageable crowds, strong cultural flavour.
- Year-Round: Many cultural celebrations happen throughout the year — there is always something to experience.
Getting Around During Festivals
Singapore’s MRT and bus network connects major festival areas smoothly. For example:
- The North-East Line and Downtown Line serve Little India and Chinatown.
- The Circle Line loop helps connect Kallang, Marina, and cultural precincts.
During large street festivals expect some roads to be closed — walk where possible to engage with street-level festivities.
Festival Etiquette & Visitor Tips for Singapore 2025
- When visiting temples or mosques during festivals, wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
- Maintain respectful distance during religious rituals, don’t disrupt proceedings.
- If invited to open-house celebrations, graciously accept food/drink offered.
- Book accommodation at least 1-2 months ahead during major festival periods.
Avoid using flash photography during sacred rituals; remove shoes when entering temples and mosques.
Conclusion: Why Singapore Festivals Should Be on Your 2025 Travel List
Festivals in Singapore offer an unmatched blend of cultural diversity, colourful celebrations and urban sophistication. From the grand dragon-dance parades of Chinese New Year to the shimmering lights of Diwali, from the spiritual calm of Vesak Day to the cutting-edge vibe of Singapore Design Week, each event is a vivid window into the island’s multicultural soul. Plan your trip around the festival calendar, pick the experiences that speak to you, and dive into Singapore’s joyous, welcoming festival spirit in 2025.
Top Festivals in Singapore 2025 Guide
Celebrate culture, food, and music at the nation’s most exciting events.
Major festivals include Chinese New Year, Thaipusam, Vesak Day, Hari Raya Puasa, Diwali, and Singapore Night Festival.
They showcase Singapore’s rich multicultural traditions.
What is the most popular holiday in Singapore?
Chinese New Year is the most celebrated holiday across Singapore.
It features parades, decorations, and traditional performances.
Is Singapore Night Festival free?
Yes, most events and light displays during the Singapore Night Festival are free.
Visitors can enjoy art, music, and cultural performances at no cost.
What is the biggest music festival in Singapore?
The ZoukOut Festival is Singapore’s largest electronic music event.
It attracts international DJs and thousands of music lovers every year.
What is the biggest celebration in Singapore?
Chinese New Year is the largest celebration in Singapore.
It fills streets with lanterns, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Is $5000 a good salary in Singapore?
Yes, $5000 SGD/month is above the median income and considered comfortable for a single person.
It can cover rent, food, transport, and leisure comfortably.
What is the best time to visit Singapore?
February to April and July to September are ideal for festivals and pleasant weather.
These months offer cultural events and lower rainfall.
Which are the main festivals?
Key festivals are Chinese New Year, Thaipusam, Vesak Day, Hari Raya Puasa, Diwali, and Singapore Night Festival.
They reflect the city’s multicultural heritage.
Which place in Singapore is most visited?
Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are the most popular tourist spots.
They offer iconic views, attractions, and photo opportunities.
What are the four major holidays?
The main holidays are Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, and Christmas.
These are widely celebrated across the island.
What are the 8 public holidays?
Public holidays include New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Good Friday, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day, Vesak Day, National Day, and Christmas.
They are observed nationwide with closures and celebrations.
What is the top 10 most celebrated holiday?
Top holidays include Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Christmas, Vesak Day, National Day, Thaipusam, Mid-Autumn Festival, Hari Raya Haji, and Good Friday.
They attract both locals and tourists with vibrant events.
What are the 12 holidays?
Singapore’s 12 holidays include New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year (2 days), Good Friday, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day, Vesak Day, Hari Raya Haji, National Day, Deepavali, Christmas Day, plus regional holidays.
These cover cultural, religious, and national celebrations.
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