Decked in resplendent red, Singapore once again welcomes the Chinese New Year. To the uninitiated, the burst of colours and merriment comes as a pleasant surprise, with the multitude of offerings bewildering to even the seasoned traveler.

While there is certainly no shortage of fanfare during this time, we have managed to narrow down to 5 top picks of things to do.




1) Chinatown (19-24 February)

Chinatown, a hotbed of Chinese culture, explodes into a cacophony of lights and sounds during the New Year. Celebrate with revellers as they welcome the Year of the Rat with spectacular fireworks and festive bazaars.

2) Flower Festival 2008 (7-17 February, 9am – 10pm)

Another top draw is the award winning Flower Festival in Sentosa spanning 5 hectares. Experience an explosion of floral delights and divine floral floats.

3) Singapore River Hong Bao (5-16 February)

The Esplanade will have large-scale sculptures of mythical Chinese characters and street-side oriental lights. Highlights include breathtaking riverside fireworks and a 35-member Tibetan song and dance troupe.

4) Chingay Parade (15-16 February, 8pm) / City Jam 2008 (16 February, 11pm onwards)

Partake in one of Asia’s biggest parades, the Chingay at Marina Bay. Boasting of 3,800 performers, 2,000 volunteers, 70 choreographers and 15 months of planning, it is a spectacle not to be missed. Immediately following that is the first-ever post-Chingay Parade Party or City Jam 2008 held in front of City Hall - boogie the night away at the only street party in Singapore!

5) Festive goodies

Indulge in the festive goodies like barbecued sweet meats (bak kwa), waxed duck and yusheng. You can find them in Chinatown shops and most Chinese restaurants.