Key takeaways
- Singapore offers both festive and quiet options during Chinese New Year
- Chinatown remains the heart of cultural celebrations
- Nature spots are ideal for avoiding crowds
- Attractions reopen quickly after the first few days
- Staycations are popular for families and couples
Introduction
Not everyone wants to travel overseas during Chinese New Year. Some prefer staying close to home, enjoying the festive atmosphere without the stress of flights, packed itineraries, or long queues. The good news is that Singapore offers plenty of meaningful places to go during Chinese New Year, whether you want culture, food, family friendly activities, or simply a peaceful break.
If you are wondering where to go during Chinese New Year in Singapore, this guide rounds up the best local spots, from festive districts to quiet nature escapes and staycation ideas.
Table of contents
- Chinatown
- Marina Bay
- River Hongbao
- Gardens by the Bay
- Sentosa Island
- Jewel Changi Airport
- Nature parks and reservoirs
- Hawker centres and food streets
- Temples and cultural landmarks
- Shopping malls and attractions
- Staycation ideas
Useful information at a glance
| Place | Crowd Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chinatown | High | Festive atmosphere |
| Marina Bay | Medium | Events and night views |
| River Hongbao | High | Lanterns and cultural shows |
| Gardens by the Bay | Medium | Families and photos |
| Sentosa | Medium | Leisure and staycations |
| Nature parks | Low | Quiet walks |
| Hawker centres | Medium | Food lovers |
| Temples | Medium | Cultural visits |
| Staycations | Low | Rest and family time |
1. Chinatown
Chinatown is the most iconic place to visit during Chinese New Year in Singapore. The area transforms with lanterns, festive street light ups, traditional music, and seasonal street markets.
What to do:
- Admire the festive light-up along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road
- Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
- Shop for decorations and snacks at street bazaars
- Sample traditional food and festive snacks
This is the heart of Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore and a great choice if you’re looking for energy, culture, and a strong festive atmosphere.
2. Marina Bay
Marina Bay offers a more modern and spacious experience. It is home to iconic attractions, evening light displays, and large scale events during Chinese New Year.
Things to do:
- Take a scenic walk around the Bay
- Enjoy night views of the skyline
- Explore The Promontory and Esplanade
- Catch River Hongbao (covered below)
A great alternative to Chinatown if you want open space and scenic views with a festive touch.
3. River Hongbao
River Hongbao is one of the most anticipated annual Chinese New Year events in Singapore. Held at Marina Bay, it features large scale lanterns, live performances, food stalls, and cultural exhibitions.
Why go:
- Huge lantern displays and photo opportunities
- Traditional and contemporary stage performances
- Festive snacks and carnival games
- Free admission
Best time to go: Evenings, when the lanterns are lit and live shows begin.
River Hongbao is family friendly, immersive, and uniquely Singaporean. It combines tradition with entertainment and is a must visit if you are in town.
4. Gardens by the Bay
A visually stunning and family friendly option, Gardens by the Bay often has Chinese New Year floral displays and seasonal programming in the Flower Dome.
Why it’s popular:
- Instagram worthy floral backdrops
- Cooling conservatories perfect for day visits
- Kid friendly and stroller accessible
- Often themed around Chinese zodiac or spring flowers
Perfect for daytime outings with grandparents, kids, or visiting relatives.
5. Sentosa Island
If you’re craving a mini holiday without leaving Singapore, Sentosa delivers. You’ll find a blend of sun, sea, food, and entertainment.
Things to do:
- Relax at Siloso or Palawan Beach
- Visit Universal Studios Singapore
- Enjoy resorts with festive buffets and decor
- Explore S.E.A. Aquarium or Adventure Cove
Sentosa is ideal for couples or families looking to escape the mainland hustle while still enjoying the holiday vibe.
6. Jewel Changi Airport
Yes, it’s an airport mall, but Jewel turns into a Chinese New Year wonderland too.
What to enjoy:
- Themed decorations and light shows at the Rain Vortex
- A huge variety of dining and shopping options
- Festive pop-ups and retail deals
- Air conditioned comfort for the whole day
It’s a perfect one stop location if you want somewhere comfortable and fully sheltered.
7. Nature parks and reservoirs
If you’re looking for calm during the celebrations, Singapore’s green spaces are an underrated gem during Chinese New Year.
Peaceful spots include:
- MacRitchie Reservoir and the TreeTop Walk
- Labrador Nature Reserve
- Thomson Nature Park
- Coney Island
Less crowded, great for reflection and fitness, and ideal for those who want to start the year fresh and quiet.
8. Hawker centres and food streets
Festive food is a highlight of the season. Once the first day or two of CNY passes, most hawker centres are back in full swing.
Try these:
- Maxwell Food Centre (near Chinatown)
- Amoy Street Food Centre
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre
- Tiong Bahru Market
Look out for dishes like pen cai, yusheng, and festive rice cakes too.
9. Temples and cultural landmarks
Chinese New Year is also a spiritual time for many. Visiting temples for blessings is a meaningful ritual.
Notable temples:
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Chinatown)
- Thian Hock Keng Temple (Telok Ayer)
- Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery (Toa Payoh)
- Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (Bishan)
Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and queue-free prayers.
10. Shopping malls and attractions
Malls quickly reopen and transform with Chinese New Year decor, entertainment, and sales.
Where to go:
- VivoCity
- Plaza Singapura
- Ion Orchard
- Suntec City
Many malls also host lion dance performances and craft workshops for kids.
11. Staycation ideas
Staycations are a great way to take a break without flying anywhere.
Recommended options:
- The Barracks Hotel Sentosa
- Capella Singapore
- Andaz Singapore
- The Clan Hotel
- Resorts World Sentosa
Whether you want luxury, nostalgia, or family friendly activities, you’ll find a good match locally.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to go out during Chinese New Year in Singapore?
Yes! Most places are open by day 2, and many attractions have themed events during this time.
What is the most festive place to go?
Chinatown and River Hongbao are the top festive picks if you want culture, lights, and energy.
Which places are more quiet and peaceful?
Nature parks, temples in the mornings, and staycations provide a calmer experience.
Are restaurants open during Chinese New Year?
Some eateries close on day 1 but reopen quickly. Malls and hotel restaurants tend to stay open.
Is River Hongbao free?
Yes, admission is free, though some food and carnival games are chargeable.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year in Singapore offers something for everyone. Whether you’re craving the buzz of Chinatown, the beauty of River Hongbao, the calm of MacRitchie, or the luxury of a staycation, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to spend the holiday.
Instead of rushing through house visits or flying overseas, take time to rediscover what your own city offers during this special time of the year. From tradition to relaxation, Singapore delivers both — right at your doorstep.
