Lion City Welcomes the Year of the Tiger with New Year Parade and Light-Up Celebrations

Composed of a multicultural immigrant society, Singapore is always vibrant during festivals, making the Lunar New Year period the most exciting time of the year. From January to March 2010, the Singapore tourism authority will host a series of spectacular and unforgettable New Year celebrations, including the Chinatown Lunar New Year Light-Up Festival, the 2010 Countdown Party, and the festive Chingay Parade. The much-anticipated integrated resorts, Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands, will also open in early 2010. Don’t miss the chance to experience the joyful Year of the Tiger festivities in Singapore.

The heart of Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore is Chinatown. The annual Lunar New Year Light-Up, held from January 23 to March 7, 2010, will brighten up Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road, and Garden Bridge. The colorful street decorations highlight the traditional cultural elements of the area. The lighting ceremony takes place from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on January 23 along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road, featuring special cultural performances, lion and dragon dances, and celebratory fireworks.

The Chinatown festive markets and food stalls are also bustling during this period. From January 23 to February 13, explore the area from Pagoda Street and Smith Street to People’s Park Complex, where over 500 food stalls offer dishes such as waxed duck, barbecued meats, cookies, fresh flowers, and traditional New Year ornaments. A wide variety of cultural foods and handicrafts are available. Theater enthusiasts can also enjoy a night stage show at Chinatown Point, featuring a mix of local and international performances.

Another highlight of the New Year celebrations is the “2010 Countdown Party” on the evening of February 13. A dazzling display of fireworks against the starry sky will bring together visitors from around the world to welcome the Year of the Tiger. The Lantern Festival celebrations will officially kick off on the evening of February 28 at 7:00 PM, with professional performers from around the globe delivering captivating songs and energetic dances to mark the climax of the New Year festivities.

Two major events, “River Hongbao” and the “Chingay Parade,” are like a vibrant Southeast Asian samba party, showcasing the beauty of Asian culture through colorful and exhilarating lion and dragon dances, as well as cannon dragon performances. The 36-year-old Chingay Parade is Singapore’s most unique Lunar New Year celebration. Taking place on the evenings of February 19 and 20 at the F1 Pit Building in Marina Bay, this year’s parade features the theme “Meet the Stars Night,” incorporating cosplay, Star Wars, and magical movie characters into the Chingay procession. The parade will even march along the F1 race track. Another highly acclaimed event, “River Hongbao,” draws crowds from around the world every year. From February 12 to 20, visitors can sample a variety of international cuisines, admire handicrafts from diverse cultures, and enjoy modern and traditional Chinese song and dance performances on the floating stage in Marina Bay.

The newly built integrated resort “Resorts World Sentosa” will first open Southeast Asia’s first movie-themed park, “Universal Studios Singapore,” featuring seven themed zones and 24 rides, including 18 exclusive attractions in Singapore. Additionally, there will be six uniquely styled five-star hotels with a total of 1,800 rooms, the 24-hour “Festival Walk,” and world-class entertainment shows. Another integrated resort, “Marina Bay Sands,” is also set to open in the first quarter of next year—come and explore it first-hand!

Singapore Travel Information
Singapore Tourism Board Chinese Website: visitsingapore.com/tw
Chingay Parade: www.chingay.org.sg
River Hongbao: www.riverhongbao.sg

Further Reading: Asakusa Sanja Matsuri Parade (provided by Tripass Travel Spots)