Best Things to Do During Chinese New Year Singapore 2026 (Events, Activities & Places)
Chinese New Year in Singapore is more than just a festive holiday — it is a city-wide celebration filled with culture, colour, tradition, and meaningful family moments. As Chinese New Year Singapore 2026 approaches, locals and visitors alike begin planning where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of this special season.
From iconic parades and lantern light-ups to fireworks, cultural events, and creative experiences like Art Journey’s art jamming & art workshop, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about Chinese New Year activities in Singapore, including the best places to go Chinese New Year, family-friendly experiences, and unique indoor activities for kids and adults.
Whether you are celebrating with family, planning activities for children, or looking for something different beyond crowded outdoor events, this pillar guide will help you decide where to go during Chinese New Year Singapore 2026.
Why Chinese New Year in Singapore Is So Special
Singapore is one of the best places in Asia to celebrate Chinese New Year. As a multicultural city, the festival blends traditional Chinese customs with modern celebrations, making it vibrant, inclusive, and exciting for all ages.
During the festive period, the city transforms with red lanterns, festive decorations, and cultural performances across neighbourhoods, shopping districts, and public spaces. Families gather, businesses celebrate prosperity, and communities come together to welcome the new year with hope and positivity.
What makes Chinese New Year Singapore truly unique is the wide variety of activities available — from outdoor festivals and fireworks to meaningful indoor experiences like art workshops, cultural exhibitions, and creative bonding activities.
Major Chinese New Year Events in Singapore 2026
If you are planning your festive itinerary, these iconic celebrations are among the most popular Chinese New Year events Singapore has to offer.
Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival
Chinatown is the heart of Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore. During the festive season, the entire precinct comes alive with lantern light-ups, street bazaars, festive music, and cultural performances.
Visitors can explore:
- Street markets selling festive decorations and traditional snacks
- Lion and dragon dance performances
- Nightly lantern displays perfect for photos
Chinatown is one of the most visited places to go Chinese New Year, especially for first-time visitors who want to experience traditional festivities in a lively atmosphere.
Chingay Parade 2026
The Chingay Parade is Singapore’s largest and most spectacular Chinese New Year parade. Known for its elaborate floats, multicultural performances, dancers, and acrobatics, the Chingay Parade represents unity, diversity, and celebration.
The CNY parade attracts thousands of spectators every year and is ideal for families, couples, and tourists looking for a grand festive experience. Tickets are usually required, so early planning is recommended.
River Hongbao & Chinese New Year Fireworks
River Hongbao, held at Gardens by the Bay, is one of the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore. It features massive lantern sculptures, carnival games, cultural performances, and food stalls.
One of the highlights is the Chinese New Year fireworks Singapore display, which lights up the night sky and creates unforgettable memories for families and children. River Hongbao is also a popular spot for CNY activities that combine entertainment, culture, and celebration.
Best Chinese New Year Activities in Singapore
Singapore offers a wide range of Chinese New Year activities suitable for different interests and age groups. Whether you enjoy outdoor festivities or prefer calmer indoor experiences, there is something for everyone.
Outdoor CNY Activities
Outdoor CNY activities are ideal for those who enjoy vibrant crowds and festive energy. Popular options include:
- Lantern light-ups in Chinatown
- Street performances and bazaars
- Chingay Parade events
- Fireworks at River Hongbao
These experiences showcase the excitement and scale of Chinese New Year Singapore celebrations.
Indoor Chinese New Year Activities
For families who prefer a relaxed pace or want to avoid large crowds, indoor Chinese New Year activities are becoming increasingly popular.
Indoor options include:
- Cultural exhibitions and interactive displays
- Festive workshops and craft activities
- Creative art jamming sessions
- Family-friendly art workshops
These activities are especially suitable for young children, seniors, and families seeking meaningful bonding experiences during the festive season.
Where to Go During Chinese New Year in Singapore
If you are wondering where to visit during Chinese New Year, these locations offer some of the best festive experiences across the island.
Chinatown & Kreta Ayer
Chinatown remains one of the top answers to where to go during CNY. It offers a full festive experience with food, performances, shopping, and cultural heritage all in one place.
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is not only home to River Hongbao but also features seasonal floral displays and festive installations. It is a great option for families and couples looking for scenic views and relaxed walks during Chinese New Year.
Community Centres & Shopping Malls
Many community centres and shopping malls host Chinese New Year events Singapore, including lion dances, festive shows, kids’ workshops, and interactive installations. These venues are convenient, air-conditioned, and family-friendly.
Creative Chinese New Year Experiences: Art Journey Art Jamming
While traditional celebrations are exciting, many families are now looking for meaningful alternatives that encourage creativity and bonding. This is where Art Journey art jamming and festive art workshops stand out as a unique CNY activity.
Why Choose Art Journey for Chinese New Year?
Art Journey Singapore offers hands-on art workshop activities that allow families, kids, couples, and groups to celebrate Chinese New Year creatively.
Instead of just watching performances, participants can:
- Create festive artwork inspired by Chinese New Year themes
- Spend quality time bonding through art
- Take home meaningful keepsakes
These experiences provide a refreshing break from crowded outdoor events and are ideal for families planning Chinese New Year activities Singapore.
Popular Art Journey CNY Art Workshop Activities
Art Journey offers specially curated festive sessions, including:
- CNY Mosaic Art Jamming – Create auspicious mosaic artworks symbolising prosperity and good fortune
- Canvas & Acrylic Painting – Beginner-friendly sessions suitable for all ages
- Kids Art Workshops – Fun, guided activities designed for young children
These art workshop activities are perfect for parents searching for Chinese New Year 2026 activities for kids that are educational, creative, and enjoyable.
Explore festive specials here: https://artjourney.sg/special-deals/
Chinese New Year 2026 Activities for Kids
Finding suitable Chinese New Year activities for kids can be challenging, especially during peak festive crowds. Singapore offers many child-friendly options, including:
- Cultural storytelling and craft sessions
- Interactive exhibitions
- Kids-focused festive workshops
- Creative art jamming sessions
Art Journey art jamming is particularly popular among parents because it combines creativity, learning, and fun in a safe indoor environment. These experiences allow children to express themselves while understanding festive themes in an engaging way.
Tips for Planning Chinese New Year Singapore 2026
To make the most of Chinese New Year Singapore 2026, keep these tips in mind:
- Visit popular attractions on weekdays to avoid peak crowds
- Book workshops and indoor activities early
- Combine outdoor celebrations with indoor activities for balance
- Choose family-friendly venues for young children
Planning ahead ensures a smoother and more enjoyable festive experience.
Celebrate Chinese New Year Singapore 2026 Meaningfully
Chinese New Year Singapore 2026 offers endless opportunities to celebrate, explore, and connect. From iconic Chinese New Year parades and fireworks to meaningful indoor experiences like Art Journey art jamming, there is something for everyone.
Whether you are deciding where to go during Chinese New Year, planning CNY activities for kids, or looking for creative alternatives to traditional celebrations, Singapore has it all.
This festive season, go beyond the usual — create memories, bond with loved ones, and welcome the new year with creativity, joy, and inspiration.