TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Chinese New Year will arrive just before you know it, and Singapore is preparing to usher it in countless exciting ways. With the dazzling Chingay Parade 2026, illuminating installations at Sentosa Island, and fun-filled experiences at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the island promises a celebration that goes beyond the ordinary, one that is vibrant and memorable.
As the days continue to count down, there’s no better time than now to plan where to go during the Chinese New Year. If you’re still unsure, here are seven Chinese New Year events in Singapore to catch, citing various sources.
Chinese New Year Events in Singapore to Visit in 2026
1. Chinatown’s Chinese New Year Celebrations
Date: January 18 – March 18
Celebrating Lunar New Year feels incomplete without a visit to Chinatown. Channeling horse’s energy to carry festive Chinese New Year cheer in full swing, the rich neighborhood dazzles with horse-themed installations lining the streets, from New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street to South Bridge Road and Upper Cross Street. At the same time, cultural performances, hands-on workshops, and festive street bazaars will also take center stage throughout the celebration.
2. River Hongbao 2026
Date: February 15 – February 24
The free-entry River Hongbao returns to usher in Chinese New Year in a bigger and more captivating fashion as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Visitors can look forward to wandering through a vibrant showcase of seasonal highlights, including iconic lantern displays, family-friendly rides, live performances, interactive exhibitions, and a tempting Food Street. It’s best to time your visit during the first three days of the event, when a dazzling fireworks display will amplify the festive spirit.
3. Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity
Date: January 16 – March 1
Chinese New Year cheer unfolds at its best at Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity. Taking place at Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome, this Instagram-worthy showcase features eight life-sized horse lanterns set amidst blooming flowers and lush plants. Not only are they visually captivating, but the installations also carry cultural significance for being handcrafted by Chinese artisans using time-honored techniques.
4. Chingay Parade 2026
Date: February 27 and 28 at 8 pm
For two nights, the iconic Chingay Parade is more than ready to bring spectacle to the city-state. Returning with the theme of “WISH,” the parade aims to deliver a universal message of collective dreams, bold aspirations, and a hopeful “here’s to good things ahead,” according to Urban List.
Its electrifying atmosphere, however, doesn’t come naturally. Instead, it’s powered by over 3,000 multicultural performers who will light up the spectacular 360-degree circular stage and ring-shaped arena.
5. Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Date: February 17 – March 3
Families with children will likely find their perfect outing for Chinese New Year at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The entire precinct, from Singapore Zoo to River Wonders, and Rainforest Wild Asia, will be adorned with festive installations, including calligraphy-shaped topiaries spelling out “Horse.” Even so, the highlight of animal encounters remains true to Mandai’s signature experiences, with some animals taking part in festive-themed enrichment activities for visitors to enjoy.
6. Gallop Into Spring at Sentosa Island
Date: until March 3
During major celebrations, Sentosa Island never runs out of ways to immerse visitors in the festive spirit. For the Year of the Horse, the island blends enchanting displays of Disney’s Mickey & Friends with installations inspired by King Mu’s Eight Celestial Horses, legendary figures that symbolize strength, speed, and a powerful start to the year. As night falls, an even more magical spectacle is awakened, thanks to the illuminated projections that light up the pathways.
7. Lunar New Year at Jewel Changi Airport
Date: January 29 – March 3
Jewel Changi Airport rides into the Lunar New Year with a vibrant lineup of festive experiences. At Canopy Park, cherry blossoms and other florals transform the Petal Garden, adding a splash of springtime charm to the celebration. On February 16, 17, and 18, visitors can catch the lively lion dance and dragon dance performances at Level 1, Jewel Forest Valley.
A visit to its Chinese New Year-themed bazaar at Cloud9 Piazza on Jewel’s Level 5 is also a must, as The Smart Local suggested. Here, visitors can purchase crafts, decorative pieces, and plants from local businesses. Interactive workshops will also be held over the weekend, offering visitors even more ways to join in the festive fun.
As the Chinese New Year gallops in, Singapore is enlivened with more color, culture, and celebration at every corner. Now that you’ve discovered these curated destinations, it’s time to mark your calendar and get ready to usher in the Year of the Horse with excitement. And while you’re at it, don’t miss the chance to toss prosperity high with lo hei from the best yusheng spots in Singapore.
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