Singapore is a multicultural society, with Chinese being the largest ethnic group among its diverse population. As such, the Spring Festival naturally becomes one of the most important festivals of the year. In Singapore, it is also known as the “Lunar New Year”. It is the most significant festival for the Chinese community and is also a traditional time for worshiping deities and honoring ancestors.
1. Spring Festival Customs
Family Reunion Dinner: Celebrating family reunion is the core meaning of the Lunar New Year; therefore, it is an essential tradition for families to gather around the dining table and enjoy a meal together as part of the Lunar New Year celebrations.
New Year’s Greetings: During the Lunar New Year, people visit friends and relatives to convey greetings and wish each other good fortune in the coming year, sharing joyous moments with their loved ones. In Singapore, it is customary to bring two oranges as a gift during these visits, a practice known as “Double Orange New Year Greeting”, symbolizing “great luck and prosperity” and “double happiness”. The host will also return the gesture by giving the guest two oranges, a practice colloquially referred to as “exchanging oranges,” which signifies “reciprocal courtesy” and “mutual sharing of good fortune”.
Yu Sheng: Also known as “Prosperity Yu Sheng,” this dish is a cold salad made of raw fish and various vegetables. In Singapore, it holds special significance. Typically consisting of seven ingredients, each is added in sequence while loudly saying auspicious phrases. The higher the ingredients are tossed, the better, symbolizing “continuous advancement” and “rising with each step”.
Buying New Year’s Goods: During the Lunar New Year, people in Singapore also stock up on festive items, including pineapple tarts, dried meat, and Nyonya kueh, among others.
2. Activities
Chinatown Light-Up Event: To fully experience the essence of the Lunar New Year in Singapore, a visit to the historic Chinatown district is a must. Each year, large lantern displays are set up according to the zodiac animal of the year. The streets of Chinatown are adorned with intricately designed lanterns, attracting numerous visitors.
River Hongbao: River Hongbao has been held in Singapore every Spring Festival since 1987. It has become a major traditional event for Singaporeans during the Lunar New Year. Featuring a blend of folk dances, traditional opera, and modern pop music, it showcases the richness and inclusiveness of Singaporean culture. Experience this cultural extravaganza in person and enjoy the joyful and peaceful atmosphere of the Lunar New Year.
Chingay Parade: From street to street, the parade dazzles with vibrant floats, mesmerizing acrobatics, thrilling juggling, captivating percussion, and sizzling dance performances, completely igniting the festive enthusiasm of the crowd.
