As we prepare to usher in the auspicious Year of the Snake in 2025, Singapore comes alive with the infectious energy and rich traditions of the Chinese New Year. Beyond the dazzling displays of red lanterns and the rhythmic beats of lion dances, Singapore offers a myriad of exciting events, activities, and attractions during this festive season.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Singapore as we guide you through the best places to celebrate and explore during the Chinese New Year in 2025. From vibrant street festivals to iconic landmarks adorned in festive hues, this guide will lead you on a journey through the heart of Singapore’s New Year celebrations, blending tradition with modernity in a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Let’s embark on a festive adventure together, discovering the best places to revel in the joyous spirit of the Year of the Snake.
Chinese New Year CNY EVENTS
Slither into a prosperous Year of the Snake as River Hongbao 2025 brings cherished traditions and exciting festivities to life! This year, we’re honouring Singapore’s 60 years of independence with SG60-themed celebrations, blending rich heritage with modern delights.
Prepare to be mesmerised by dazzling lantern displays, thrilling performances, and interactive exhibits that capture the spirit of Chinese New Year. Don’t miss out on unique activities, from engaging contests to a nostalgic Retro Snake Game, and collect exclusive digital stickers to share festive joy with loved ones.
📅 27 Jan to 5 Feb 2025
⏰ 27 Jan: 6.30pm to 10.30pm | 28 Jan 6.30pm to 12.15am | 29 Jan to 5 Feb: 2.30pm to 10.30pm
📍 Gardens by the Bay
🏷 Free
For more information, visit Singapore River Hongbao 2025.
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2. Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2025
The Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebration 2025 returns to liven up the streets of Chinatown with physical festivities including the all-time favourite Festive Fair and Street Light-Up. Held in Chinatown, a culturally and historically significant precinct, the celebration aims to promote a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture and traditions, among locals from all walks of life.
📅 8 Jan to 27 Feb 2025
📍 Chinatown
For more information, visit Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations 2025.
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3. Our Tampines Hub Ushers in Chinese New Year
As Singapore commemorates its 60th birthday, Our Tampines Hub will start its Chinese New Year 2025 festivities with its annual ‘Spring Melodies Concert’ on 8 February and end with the People’s Association Chingay @ Heartlands parade on 21 Feb 2025.
📅 Now till 21 Feb 2025
📍 Our Tampines Hub OTH
For more information, visit Our Tampines Hub Chinese New Year 2025.
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4. Experience the Lion & Dragon Dance Performance this CNY
Photo credit: SYSNMH
Chinese New Year is never complete without Lion & Dragon dance. We have curated list of locations where you can witness these captivating performances during the Chinese New Year in Singapore.
For more information, visit CNY Lion & Dragon Dance Performance.
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5. Museum Roundtable Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign
Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign (photo courtesy of NHB International and Museum Relations)
The National Heritage Board’s (NHB) Museum Roundtable Hongbao Campaign returns once again with all-new red packet designs, this time featuring the Chinese zodiac animal of 2025 – the Snake.
Members of the public will be able to visit these participating museums, heritage institutions, and galleries, and collect a set of six red packets. Each visitor is entitled to one set from any of the venues, while stocks last.
📅 21 Jan to 12 Feb 2025
📍 Various
For more information visit Museum Roundtable Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign 2024.
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6. One Punggol Celebrates Chinese New Year 2025 with Sichuan Opera Act & Acrobatic Performance
Enjoy the vibrant Lion and Dragon Dance featuring the ‘cai qing’ ritual for prosperity and thrilling pole-leaping ‘tiao zhuang’, accompanied by rhythmic beats and the majestic dragon symbolizing success and unity this festive season. Young children will enjoy fun-filled CNY-themed bouncy castles, calligraphy craftwork and fan painting workshops, and interactive table-top games.
📅 Saturday, 25 Jan 2025
🕙 4pm – 10pm
📍 One Punggol, 1 Punggol Drive, Singapore 828629
🏷 Free admission to the public
For more information, visit One Punggol Celebrates Chinese New Year 2025.
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7. Istana Lunar New Year CNY Open House
Embark on a guided tour of the Istana grounds to explore its rich history, architectural heritage, and unique landscape of flora and fauna. The 1-hour walking tour begins at the Main Gate and features highlights such as the Villa, Japanese Garden, and Ceremonial Plaza.
Tours are conducted in English and Mandarin every hour from 9am to 4pm. Fees apply, and all proceeds go to the benefitting organisations supported by the President’s Challenge.
📅 2 Feb 2025
⏱ 8.30am – 6pm
📍 The Istana
For more information, visit Istana Open House.
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8. Spring Blossoms: Legend of Lady White Snake（春花盛开之白蛇传）
This Chinese New Year, Gardens by the Bay ushers in the Year of the Snake with Spring Blossoms, a floral display inspired by Legend of the White Snake – one of China’s four great folklores, which tells the story of the union between a mortal man, Xu Xian, and a female snake spirit, Bai Suzhen, also known as Madam White Snake.
📅 17 Jan to 23 Feb 2025
🕙 9am to 9pm
📍 Flower Dome (Admission charge applies)
You can get tickets via Klook, Fever and Pelago.
For more information, visit Gardens by the Bay Chinese New Year.
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Get ready for an extraordinary celebration at Chingay Parade 2025! This vibrant multicultural extravaganza returns with the theme “JOY,” promising an exciting experience for everyone.
As Singapore commemorates its 60th birthday, Chingay 2025 is set to be a spectacular celebration of our nation’s unity and shared journey. This year’s parade brings together communities and families through the universal language of food, offering a more immersive experience than ever before.
📅 7 and 8 Feb 2025
⏰ 8pm
📍 F1 Pit Building
For more information, visit Chingay Parade 2025.
PLACES OF INTEREST
1. Mandai Wildlife Reserve (Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Night Safari and Bird Paradise)
King cobra at Singapore Zoo. Credit Mandai Wildlife Group
Gather your friends and family to learn about the fascinating abilities of snakes and the important role they play in balancing our ecosystem, as well as receive auspicious greetings for a prosperous year ahead. From day to night, get transported into the amazing world of our star reptiles through scheduled Keeper Talk sessions featuring the king cobra at Singapore Zoo, the green anaconda at River Wonders as well as the cave racer and carpet python at Night Safari.
📅 28 Jan to 12 Feb 2025
You can get tickets via Klook for Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Night Safari.
For more information, visit Lunar New Year at Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
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2. S.E.A. Aquarium (S.E.A. 海洋馆)
S.E.A. Aquarium (S.E.A. 海洋馆) is celebrating the Chinese New Year through Spring in the SEA, where visitors can experience a marine world of festive charm. Watch S.E.A. Aquarium come to live with dazzling decorations that beautifully blend the wonders of marine life with the joy and traditions of the season.
📅 22 Jan to 16 Feb 2025
SEA Aquarium Underwater Dragon Dance. Photo Credit: Resorts World Sentosa.
For more information, visit S.E.A. Aquarium Lunar New Year.
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3. Jewel ushers in Year of the Snake with POP MART Chinese New Year-themed installations
Image credit: Jewel Changi Airport Development (JCAD)
Get ready to welcome Lunar New Year at Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel), where POP MART joins forces with Jewel to create a festive wonderland! Jewel will be the only destination outside of China where POP MART’s Chinese New Year themed installations can be found. This collaboration showcases POP MART’s signature blend of art and storytelling through stunning installations, exclusive collectibles, and festive promotions to create unforgettable moments.
📅 10 Jan to 28 Feb 2025
📍 Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel)
For more information, visit Jewel Changi Airport Chinese New Year.
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4. Universal Studios Singapore (新加坡环球影城)
USS, Po and Tigress share festive greetings and hand out lucky fortune cookies. Photo credit: Resorts World Sentosa
Universal Studios Singapore welcomes the Year of the Snake with exciting fortune-filled experiences. The celebrations kick off with Po’s Parade of Prosperity, where Po and Tigress from DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda share festive greetings and hand out lucky fortune cookies on their journey through the park. Other fan-favourite characters include Madagascar’s Alex, King Julien, and Gloria, Trolls’ Poppy and Branch, and Sesame Street friends Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, and Oscar, all dressed in their best Chinese New Year outfits for fun photo moments.
📅 22 Jan to 12 Feb 2025
For more information, visit Universal Studios Singapore Lunar New Year.
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Experience breathtaking, panoramic views of Singapore and beyond on Asia’s largest Giant Observation Wheel. Be awed by an interactive gallery for a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Singapore Story and the iconic Singapore Flyer, told via an engaging multimedia showcase.
📅 Daily, including Public Holidays
⏱ 2pm – 10pm (last admission at 9:30pm)
🏷 Charges apply
You can get tickets online at Klook or KKday.
For more information, visit Singapore Flyer.
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Enjoy free admission* to National Orchid Garden for Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders, Local Students, Dependant Pass holders.
📅 29 & 30 Jan 2025
⏱ 8.30am to 7pm (Last entry at 6pm)
📍 National Orchid Garden
For more information visit Free Admission To National Orchid Garden.
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7. Science Centre, Omni-Theatre, Snow City and KidsSTOP™
Science Centre Singapore and its attractions showcase the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through a unique blend of exhibitions, educational programmes, and events.
📅 Tue to Sun (Closed on Mondays except for Public Holidays and the gazetted school holidays)
⏱ 10am – 5pm
• Space Explorers: THE INFINITE
Be the first in Southeast Asia to experience the world’s largest extended reality space exploration at Science Centre Singapore. Created by Felix & Paul Studios and PHI Studio
The ultimate space adventure! Enter the world of astronauts aboard and outside the International Space Station in an awe-inspiring immersive experience inspired by NASA missions. Get as close as you can to being in space. Witness the daily lives of astronauts and see Earth as you’ve never seen it before. Space Explorers: THE INFINITE is the world’s largest collective immersive experience, showcasing life in space with scenes and footage from the Emmy Award-winning series Space Explorers: The ISS Experience.
📅 12 Oct 2024 to 23 Mar 2025
📍 The Annexe, Science Centre Singapore
Get your tickets on Fever.
For more information, visit Space Explorers: THE INFINITE.
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8. Adventure Cove Waterpark (水上探险乐园)
Splash into Spring at Adventure Cove Waterpark (水上探险乐园) and delight in an abundance of good fun on thrilling water slides or mesmerising close-up experiences with marine life. Its rides and attractions include the adrenaline-pumping Riptide Rocket as well as the relaxing Adventure River, where guests can lay back and drift through stunning themed zones.
You can purchase Adventure Cove Waterpark tickets via Klook or KKDay.
For more information, visit Adventure Cove Waterpark New Year.
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9. Amazonia
Photo credit: Klook
Amazonia is one of Singapore’s oldest and largest family play facilities operating to this date with gigantic multi-level play-gym covering over 3000 sqft of play area. Equipped with the highest indoor wave slide, super-sized play-gym, and offers all the thrills that any child could desire.
⏱ 9.30am to 7.30pm
🏷 Charges apply
You can get tickets online via Klook and KKday.
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10. SkyHelix Sentosa
Located within the collection of attractions at Imbiah Lookout, SkyHelix Sentosa is an unforgettable gondola ride that reveals breathtaking views as it gently rotates 35 metres above ground along a vertical helix-like structure. Guests will enjoy unparalleled 360° sights of Sentosa and the developing Greater Southern Waterfront while dangling their feet in the air with a cool drink in hand. The ride’s apex is 79 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest vantage points on Sentosa.
Operation hours: 10am – 9.30pm daily
Admission: Charges apply.
You can purchase Skyhelix via Klook or KKday.
For more information, visit SkyHelix Sentosa.
MUSEUMS
The following museums are open during the Chinese New Year Period. The list is not exhaustive, visit here for a list of Museums in Singapore.
1. National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is the nation’s oldest museum that seeks to inspire with stories of Singapore and the world. Its history dates back to 1849. Known then as the Raffles Library and Museum, the museum moved to its current premises on Stamford Road in 1887.
📅 Daily
⏱ 10am to 7pm. Last admission 6.15pm (Glass Rotunda) | 6.30pm (All other galleries)
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
Non-citizens/PRs can get tickets online at Klook or KKday.
For more information, visit National Museum.
• CNY Celebrations at National Museum
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with our annual lion dance performance on 30 Jan at 11.30am. Admission to the National Museum’s galleries will be free for all visitors on 29 & 30 Jan 2025.
For more information, visit CNY Celebrations at National Museum.
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2. Reflections at Bukit Chandu Museum
Photo credit: Reflections at Bukit Chandu
Reflections at Bukit Chandu is a World War Two interpretative centre that commemorates the battle of Pasir Panjang and the men of the Malay Regiment who fought in it, as well as the history of Bukit Chandu itself. Housed in a bungalow that is closely connected to the site’s history, the interpretative centre uses immersive experiences and contextual artefacts to present a multi-faceted look at Bukit Chandu and Pasir Panjang, while inviting visitors to reflect on our nation’s wartime experience and the brave sacrifice of the soldiers.
⏱ 9.30am to 5pm (Tue to Sun)
Closed every Mon except Public Holidays
Last admission at 4.30pm
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
For more information, visit Reflections at Bukit Chandu Museum.
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3. Changi Chapel and Museum Singapore
The Changi Chapel and Museum tells the story of the prisoners of war and civilians interned in Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. The museum features content and artefacts, including stories and personal objects collected from families of former internees, presented in an intimate and engaging format. The museum’s narrative is centred on remembrance and reflection, encouraging visitors to contemplate both the hardships that the internees underwent, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of difficulties.
⏱ 9.30am to 5.30pm (Tue to Sun)
Closed every Mon except Public Holidays
Last admission at 5pm.
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
For more information, visit Changi Chapel and Museum Singapore.
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Explore the rich tapestry of art and culture at the National Gallery Singapore during public holidays. Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through Southeast Asian masterpieces and international exhibitions, making it a perfect destination for a day of cultural enrichment and aesthetic appreciation.
📅 Daily
⏱ 10am – 7pm
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
Non-Citizens/PRs can get tickets at Klook or KKday.
For more information, visit National Gallery Singapore.
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5. Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is home to over 1 million specimens from fossils to flora and fauna, of which about 2,000 specimens are on display.
📅 Tue to Sun
⏱ 10am – 6pm
🏷 Charges apply
You can get tickets at Klook.
For more information, visit Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum.
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The Peranakan Museum showcases the rich culture of Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia. With newly designed permanent galleries featuring a comprehensive collection of objects and a focus on contemporary expressions of Peranakan culture, the museum provides a multi-faceted exploration of themes related to origins, home, and style across three floors, inviting visitors to ponder the question, “what is Peranakan?”.
📅 Daily
⏱ 10am – 7pm (Fri from 10am – 9pm)
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
For more information, visit Peranakan Museum Singapore.
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The Former Ford Factory in Singapore, initially established by the Ford Motor Company in 1926, played a pivotal role in World War II as the site of the British surrender to Japanese forces on February 15, 1942. Now a national monument, it houses a permanent exhibition on the war and its lasting impact, curated by the National Archives of Singapore.
📅 Tue to Sun (Closed on 29 Jan 2025)
⏱ 9am – 5.30pm
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
For more information, visit Former Ford Factory.
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8. Children’s Museum Singapore
To welcome the new year, there’s an exciting lion dance performance happening at the museum on Saturday 1 Feb 2025, 12pm. Come and join us!
Psst… they remain open on Day 1 and 2 of Lunar New Year (29 & 30 Jan 2025).
📅 Tue – Sun (closed on Mon)
⏱ 9am – 5.45pm
🏷 Bookings required
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Dive into the captivating narratives of Asian civilizations at the Asian Civilisations Museum. From intricate artifacts to immersive exhibits, the museum offers a unique opportunity to discover the diverse heritage of Asia, making it an enriching and culturally rewarding experience for visitors.
📅 Daily
⏱ 10am – 7pm | 10am – 9pm (Fri)
🏷 Free for Citizens | Permanent Residents | Children 6 years and below
For more information, visit Asian Civilisation Museum.
FREE PLACES
1. Chinese Garden & Jurong Lake Gardens
Usher in the Year of the Snake with a touch of nature and tradition! This year, make time for family, unity and togetherness at Chinese Garden, Jurong Lake Gardens. Soak in the festivities with engaging activities and decorations nestled amidst the serenity and lush greenery!
📅 18 Jan to 12 Feb 2025
🕙 9am – 12am
📍 Chinese Garden
🏷 Free
For more information, visit Chinese Garden Lunar New Year.
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Don’t miss the dazzling Bukit Panjang Town Chinese New Year Light Up @Pang Sua Pond!
📅 On-going
⏰ 7pm – 10pm
📍 Pang Sua Pond
🏷 Free
For more information, visit Pang Sua Pond Chinese New Year.
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The Singapore Botanic Gardens showcases the best and most spectacular of tropical flora, including more than 10,000 types of plants and the region’s most significant living collection of documented palms, orchids, cycads and gingers. Its historic 19th century garden landscape is well preserved and includes the earliest ornamental designed lake in Singapore.
📅 Daily
⏱ 5am – 12am
For more information, visit Singapore Botanic Gardens.
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The Mandai Boardwalk offers a serene 3.3km trail with stunning views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Skirting River Wonders and Singapore Zoo, the wheelchair-friendly boardwalk allows visitors to observe local wildlife and glimpse zoo animals. Open daily from 7am to 7pm, it’s free to access from entrances near River Wonders and Mandai Wildlife East, providing an inclusive and peaceful experience for all ages.
For more information, visit Mandai Boardwalk.
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5. Thian Hock Keng – Oldest Chinese Temple in Singapore
The Year of the Dragon is just around the corner! Thian Hock Keng Temple will remain open during the Chinese New Year (CNY) period for devotees to seek blessings in the New Year!
For more information, visit Thian Hock Keng Temple Chinese New Year 2025.
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Haw Par Villa is a unique garden that is rich in educational value and grand in architecture. It is an undisputed wonderland of beautiful landscape and over a thousand sculptures that artistically portray stories and events based on famous Chinese historical personalities, mythology and legends.
📅 Daily
⏱ 9am – 8pm (last entry: 7.30pm)
For more information, visit Haw Par Villa.
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7. Lau Pa Sat
Relive childhood memories at Singapore’s iconic hawker market, Lau Pa Sat with life-size installations including ‘Snakes & Slides’ game and Mickey & Friends ‘Joy of Festival’ character displays, zodiac readings and attractive festive deals.
📅 30 Dec 2024 to 14 Feb 2025
For more information, visit Lau Pa Sat Lunar New Year.
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8. Chinatown LEGO Chinese Zodiac Minifigures
Usher in the New Year with us at Smith Street with LEGO’s 12 Chinese Zodiac Minifigures, each standing at 2 metres tall. Snap a photo with these playful creations and soak in the festive atmosphere, complemented by the vibrant cultural activities happening throughout Chinatown.
Stop by the Chinatown Visitor Centre to grab a map and plan your route. Highlights include the bustling Chinatown Street Market for delicious CNY goodies and decorations, insta-worthy street murals for you to clock memories, and much more. For a deeper dive into Chinatown’s rich heritage, immerse yourself in unique experiences like a Peking Opera Backstage Tour and Chinese Opera Makeup experience.
📍 Smith Street, Chinatown Singapore
For more information, visit LEGO Chinese Zodiac Displays.
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SHOPPING MALLS
1. Illuminate Spring with Blooms across Lendlease Malls
Usher in the Year of the Snake with blooming rewards and shopping experience at Lendlease malls. This spring will be immersed in festive celebrations, exciting games, and abundant rewards. Remember to check out the Lunar New Year Lion Dance performances too.
📅 3 Jan to 12 Feb 2025
📍 313@somerset, Jem, Parkway Parade and Paya Lebar Quarter
For more information, visit Lendlease Malls Chinese New Year.
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2. Celebrate Growth and Prosperity at One Raffles Place Shopping Mall
Welcome the Lunar New Year with a fresh start with One Raffles Place shopping mall’s “Blooming into the New Year” campaign. Shoppers in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) can look forward to an exciting lineup of promotions, rewarding giveaways, and engaging activities to usher in a year filled with growth and prosperity.
📅 7 to 27 Jan 2025
📍 One Raffles Place Shopping Mall
For more information, visit One Raffles Place Chinese New Year.
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3. Journey into Prosperity with The LEGO ® Group at Suntec City this Lunar New Year
This Lunar New Year, Suntec City partners with The LEGO® Group to welcome the auspicious Year of the Snake with a vibrant lineup of festivities for the entire family. Immerse yourself in the spirit of celebration with exclusive deals, captivating performances and exciting brick-based activities that promise fun-filled moments.
📅 9 Jan to 9 Feb 2025
📍 Suntec City
For more information, visit Suntec City Lunar New Year.
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4. VivoCity
Usher in prosperity this Chinese New Year as VivoCity celebrates the lunar festivities in collaboration with Hasbro’s iconic game, MONOPOLY! Bask in the festive spirit and embark on a wondrous journey as the mall springs into life to welcome the Year of the Snake.
📅 7 to 28 Jan 2025
For more information, visit VivoCity Lunar New Year 2025.
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5. Marina Bay Sands Chinese New Year Decorations
Let glorious celebrations unfold in grandeur as we anticipate a year filled with good fortune and abundance.
Marina Bay Sands Chinese New Year Light Up
📅 27 Jan 2025
⏱ 7.15pm
📍 The Shoppes, Grand Colonnade
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OTHER EVENTS
1. Light to Night Festival 2025
Light to Night Singapore returns for its 9th edition, illuminating the Civic District with over 70 programmes, light projections and art installations. Inspired by the theme Do You See Me?, where art becomes a mirror for reflection and celebration in a year of national milestones, from Singapore’s 60th anniversary of independence to the Gallery’s 10th anniversary.
📅 17 Jan to 6 Feb 2025
📍 Civic District
For more information visit Light to Night Festival 2025.
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Note: All details are correct as at the time of publishing. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information, no guarantee is given nor responsibility is taken for errors or omissions in the compilation. Readers are advised to check with the respective event organisers for the most updated schedules, venues and details.
Looking for CNY goodies for your home? Here’s where to buy pineapple tarts and bak kwa in Singapore.
Planning a feast for the festivities? Check out these Chinese New Year Buffet Catering Services for a hassle-free celebration.
Want to shower your family and friends with blessings and bountiful gifts this CNY? Here is a list of unique CNY gifts and hampers to consider gifting!
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