Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations

Chinatown is galloping full speed into the Year of the Horse, and you’re invited along for the ride. For a whole two months from January, the precinct will be decorated in festive cheer as the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations return with a dazzling street light-up, cultural performances, hands-on workshops and the much-loved International Lion Dance Competition.

This year’s theme, 'Galloping into the Prosperous Year', takes shape through paper-cut-inspired designs and a show-stopping 8.8-metre golden horse installation. Feast your senses on the lantern-lined streets, eye-catching orchids, flowing red drapes and a packed programme, from countdown parties to crafty workshops – all the reasons to celebrate the season in Chinatown. There's also the annual festive fair, offering all your festive decoration needs, snacks and other favourites.

The streets officially light up on January 30, with the ceremony broadcast live from Kreta Ayer Square. Stroll along South Bridge Road, Upper Cross Street, New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street as they come to life once the sun sets. The ceremony, officiated by Minister Mrs Josephine Teo, will also feature a performance showcasing Singapore's multicultural identity, melding Chinese dance with Malay kuda kepang, Indian Rajasthani horse dance, and Western styles. 

The festivities are expected to ramp up later in February and March. Don't miss a lion dance competition and take part in the Lantern Adoption Application, where you can bring home one of the lanterns used in the celebrations as a keepsake.