Experience the vibrant Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival 2025 with dazzling lights, bustling fairs, thrilling lion dances, and cultural performances—perfect for family fun!
Photo of previous year's set-up
Venue: Chinatown Precinct
Dates: 8 Jan 2024 (Official Light-up), 8 Jan to 27 Feb (Light-up and Activities)
Admission: Free
Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, festive cheer, and vibrant celebrations. Chinatown is set to come alive with a dazzling array of events at the annual Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival, perfect for families looking to create lasting memories together. From stunning light displays to energetic lion dances and bustling festive fairs, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
In 2025, we celebrate the Year of the Snake with the first and second day of Chinese New Year on 29 and 30 Jan 2025 respectively, both days are public holidays in Singapore!
The Chinatown Chinese New Year Light-up and Festivities is always a great draw for both locals and tourists, so here are more details to help you plan your visit!
Click here if you are looking for more Family Fun Chinese New Year Events!
Chinatown Chinese New Year Light-Up
Photo of previous year's set-up
Venue: Streets of Chinatown
Dates: 8 Jan, 6 pm (official light-up), 8 Jan to 27 Feb 2025 (light up period)
Times: 6 pm to 12 am (7 pm to 6 am on the first day of Chinese New Year)
Prepare to be mesmerised by the breathtaking display of lights illuminating the streets of Chinatown. This year's light-up promises to be a visual spectacle, with colourful lanterns and decorations adorning the streets. You will find the following streets lite up for the festival, Sago Street, Smith Street, Pagoda Street, Trengganu Street, Temple Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road, Upper Cross Street and Eu Tong Sen Street.
Don't miss the official light-up happening at the Kreta Ayer Square on 8 Jan 2025 at 6 pm
This is a fantastic opportunity for family photos and a leisurely evening stroll. The light-up often features large-scale lantern installations depicting zodiac animals (with a focus on the snake) and auspicious symbols, creating an immersive and festive atmosphere.
Photo of previous year's set-up
Chinatown Association usually has a Lantern Adoption that happens at the end of the festivities. So do look out for it if you wish to bring home a piece of memory with you!
Golden Tooth Relic Temple - Lantern Displays
Photo of previous year's set-up
In previous years, we have spotted exquisite lantern displays at the Golden Tooth Relic Temple. While information is not yet available, we do encourage families to also drop by to check it out (and snap more pictures too)!
Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown Party
Venue: Kreta Ayer Square
Dates: 28 Jan 2025, 10 pm
Usher in the Year of the Dragon with a bang at the Countdown Party! Enjoy live performances, music, and a festive atmosphere as you count down to the new year with your loved ones. This high-energy event is a great way to celebrate the start of a new year. Past countdown parties have featured local celebrities, cultural performances, and a spectacular fireworks display (subject to confirmation for this year).
Chinatown Festive Fair
Photos of previous year's set-up
Venue: Sago Street, Smith Street, Pagoda Street, Trengganu Street and Temple Street
Dates: 8 Jan to 28 Jan, 11 am - 10.30 pm
Immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere of the Festive Fair, where you can find a treasure trove of Chinese New Year goodies, festive decorations, and unique gifts. From traditional snacks like pineapple tarts and bak kwa (barbecued pork) to festive clothing and decorations, it's the perfect place to soak up the festive spirit and pick up some treats for the family. Expect a vibrant and energetic atmosphere with vendors enthusiastically promoting their wares.
Festive Fair at People's Park Complex
Venue: Open Space infront of People's Park Complex
Dates: 30 Dec 2024 to 28 Jan, 10 am - 10 pm
Extend your festive shopping experience at the Festive Fair at People’s Park. This area offers even more opportunities to discover unique Chinese New Year goods and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Stage Shows
- Venue: Kreta Ayer Square
- Dates: 11 - 12 and 18 - 19 Jan 2025, 7 pm - 9 pm
Enjoy a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Chinese music, dance, and opera, at the various stage shows throughout the festive period. These performances offer a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and enjoy captivating entertainment suitable for all ages.
Lion Dance Competition
Venue and Details: TBC
While not yet announced, we are quite sure the annual Lion Dance Competition will be taking place during the festival. So come witness the thrilling spectacle of the Lion Dance Competition, a vibrant display of athleticism, skill, and tradition. Watch as troupes compete for top honours with their dazzling performances, showcasing their acrobatic prowess and synchronised movements.
The loud drums and cymbals add to the excitement, creating an electrifying atmosphere. We will update the piece as more information becomes available.
Tips for Families
- Plan your visit: Chinatown is expected to be crowded during the festive period, so it's best to plan your visit in advance. Consider using public transport to avoid traffic congestion. Check the official event websites closer to the date for detailed schedules and maps.
- Bring your camera and portable charger: You'll want to capture the memories of your family's visit to the Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival.
- Baby-carry instead: Due to the crowd, you may wish to leave the pram at home and baby carry instead.
- Dress comfortably: Wear light and comfortable clothing and shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Stay hydrated: Remember to bring water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Low crime does not mean no crime, so keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Check for updates: As more details are released, check Chinatown Festivals and social media pages for the latest information on schedules, locations, and any changes to the programme.
We hope this more detailed guide helps you plan a truly memorable family outing to the Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival. Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Photo Credits: Stanley Chee
