CNY events and celebrations 2025, Best ways to welcome the Year of the Snake

Chinese New Year 2025 brings an array of vibrant festivities and meaningful traditions to Singapore, welcoming the Year of the Snake. Other than the recent Chingay Parade, there are countless ways to celebrate this joyous occasion – don’t worry if you missed that lively parade of 60 lion dancers! From spectacular light-ups and cultural performances to intimate family gatherings, this guide will take you through the best CNY events and celebrations in 2025, while also exploring heartfelt ways to embrace the season’s spirit.

What does the Year of the Snake signify?

First of all, what does the Year of the Snake mean? The Year of the Snake symbolises wisdom, intuition, and transformation. In this Chinese New Year 2025, it is time to embrace new beginnings while reflecting on the lessons of the past.

The snake is often associated with adaptability and calm, encouraging people to approach challenges with patience and strategic thinking. For those looking to make meaningful progress, this year offers the perfect opportunity to realign priorities and achieve personal growth.

Best CNY Events 2025 in Singapore

Before stepping into the year of transformation, let’s explore the festive ways to celebrate! The Chinese New Year festivities in Singapore promise vibrant traditions and lively celebrations. Here are some of the top events to immerse yourself in as we welcome the Year of the Snake.

River Hongbao 2025 (27 January – 5 February)

River Hongbao is Singapore’s largest annual Chinese New Year celebration, and this year, it promises to be more spectacular than ever. Hosted at Gardens by the Bay, the event features over 20 breathtaking illuminated lantern displays. Highlights include the towering God of Fortune lantern, a vibrant butterfly arch, and intricate floral trellises. A dedicated installation celebrates the Year of the Snake, depicting the zodiac animal in all its glory.

Visitors can enjoy nightly cultural performances, interactive carnival games, and delectable street food. A rare treat awaits on the first three nights: Firecrackers! Additionally, the event offers family-friendly activities like a double-storey horse carousel and exhibition zones. With free entry and activities spread across multiple zones, River Hongbao is a must-visit for all ages.

Chinatown CNY festivals (8 January – 27 February)

Chinatown transforms into a festive wonderland during Chinese New Year, with the theme “Ushering Fortune and Unity for a Prosperous New Year.” The streets, including New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street, South Bridge Road, and Upper Cross Street are adorned with glowing lanterns and decorations, including an 8-metre-tall Tree of Fortune.

Kick off the celebrations at the Countdown Party on 28 January at Banda Street, complete with live entertainment and fireworks. Festive fairs at People’s Park Complex and Chinatown Street Stalls offer a variety of Chinese New Year goods and snacks. Weekend cultural stage performances at Kreta Ayer Square add to the lively atmosphere, showcasing traditional arts and music.

Wan Qing Festival of Spring (8 – 9 February)

Head to Safra Punggol for a culturally rich celebration at the Wan Qing Festival of Spring. This event brings together captivating performances, including the Hakka qilin dance, lion dances, and Chinese opera. A range of workshops, such as tang yuan (glutinous rice ball) making, lion dance drumming, and Chinese opera mask painting, allow attendees to immerse themselves in the traditions of the season.

The festival also features a Lunar New Year-themed travelling exhibition that showcases the cultural heritage of the occasion. Families and individuals can enjoy interactive storytelling sessions and learn about the significance of Chinese New Year rituals.

Spring Blossoms at Gardens by the Bay (17 January – 23 February)

Experience the beauty of spring with the Spring Blossoms display at the Flower Dome, inspired by the Legend of the White Snake. This enchanting showcase features dahlias and other festive blooms surrounding a stunning 4.5-metre-tall floral depiction of Madam White Snake.

The display celebrates the union of a mortal man, Xu Xian, and the snake spirit Bai Suzhen, weaving elements of Chinese folklore into the vibrant setting. Visitors can also enjoy the serene ambience and capture memorable photos amidst the breathtaking floral arrangements.

Lunar New Year at Universal Studios (22 January – 12 February)

Universal Studios Singapore offers a festive twist to its thrilling theme park experience. Cherry blossom-lined streets set the stage for photo opportunities, while popular characters don CNY-themed costumes. Guests can enjoy Po’s Parade of Prosperity, where Po and Tigress hand out fortune cookies, adding a touch of luck to the celebrations.

The theme park also features traditional Chinese New Year performances, blending cultural charm with the excitement of its usual attractions. Don’t forget to explore the themed dining options and exclusive merchandise during your visit.

Journey into Prosperity by LEGO (9 January – 9 February)

Suntec City collaborates with The Lego Group for an engaging and family-friendly Chinese New Year celebration. The Tower 1 & 2 Atrium transforms into The Realm of Possibilities, where participants can complete tasks to redeem exclusive Lego builds or vouchers.

The Village of Blessings allows visitors to key in their wishes and dreams on an e-lantern for the new year. Special appearances by the God of Fortune mascot on selected dates add to the festive cheer. Additionally, a lion dance performance by the Yiwei Athletic Association is scheduled to captivate audiences on February 3.

CNY Weekend Market at Cosford Container Park (18 – 19 January)

Celebrate Chinese New Year at the CNY Weekend Market in Cosford Container Park. This vibrant event features thrilling lion dance performances on 18 January and an entertaining snake charmer act on 19 January. Visitors can explore 13 retail booths offering handcrafted jewellery, festive snacks, and artisanal goods. For creative individuals, free workshops on DIY lantern and keychain crafting provide a hands-on festive experience. The market also boasts a variety of food options, ensuring a delightful visit for all.

Heartfelt ways to celebrate Chinese New Year 2025

Avoiding massive crowds this Chinese New Year? For those seeking a quieter and more personal celebration, here are some meaningful ways to honour the festive season.

Family reunion dinners

A traditional reunion dinner remains at the heart of Chinese New Year celebrations. Gather your loved ones for a sumptuous meal featuring symbolic dishes like yusheng, dumplings, and steamed fish. These dishes represent prosperity, unity, and abundance. Whether dining out or preparing the meal at home, this gathering fosters warmth and connection.

Exchanging gifts and greetings

Spread joy by exchanging gifts and well-wishes with family and friends. Red packets (ang baos) filled with money symbolise good luck and are typically given to children and unmarried relatives. Pair the gesture with heartfelt greetings to strengthen bonds and bring happiness.

Reflecting at temples

Visiting a temple during Chinese New Year offers a chance to seek blessings and reflect on the year ahead. Temples such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Thian Hock Keng Temple provide serene spaces for prayer and contemplation. Participate in rituals like lighting incense or making offerings to welcome good fortune.

Chinese New Year invites everyone to embrace the joy of togetherness, whether through grand events or meaningful traditions. Gong Xi Fa Cai!

The post CNY events and celebrations 2025, Best ways to welcome the Year of the Snake appeared first on .