When traveling to Singapore, it is advisable to take note of the holidays in Singapore, since on these holidays there are often festive events. In addition to the usual holidays in Singapore, which are shared with most western countries, such as Christmas, New Year, Labor Day and Good Friday, there are many holidays in Singapore devoted to the main ethnic groups that make up the country. Here are some of the major holidays that are unique to Singapore to take note of.
Chinese New Year
This is considered the biggest time of the year for all Chinese-educated people in Singapore. Chinese New Year usually occurs at the end of January or sometimes in February, as it depends on the Chinese lunar calendar. During this time, you may notice that many of the local stores are closed, but as they say, numerous celebrations are held during the week, such as dragon dances, as well as unique dinners or lo hay dinners, where you specially prepared dish of raw vegetables, mixed with sweet and sour sauce, nuts and raw salmon). In addition, you should visit the Chinatown area at this time, as special New Year's portholes will appear. In addition, in the area of Chinatown there will be a lot of jam filled with people, all of whom are eager to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Vesak Day
Vesak Day is the birthday of Buddha. During this time, you will see that many Buddhist stories in Singapore hold special prayer sessions and other celebratory events. You can visit any of the major temples in Singapore where you can enjoy a vegetarian lunch.
National Day
This is a major holiday for Singaporeans who celebrate their nation. This happens on August 9th. There will be a big parade near the Marina Bay area, where you will see marches, performances and a stunning military show. You will also see fighters breaking through the sky as gestures to this special day. Also do not forget to look at the combat helicopters flying near the center of Singapore, with the huge flag of Singapore lagging behind!
Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji
Hari Raya is known in Malay as "celebration." There are two separate holidays that are special for Malays. The first of these is Hari Raya Poasa, in which it is a Muslim holiday, which marks the end of Ramadan. During Ramadan, all Muslims will need to practice fasting for a month. On the last day, when Ramadan is over, huge holidays will be prepared.
The second of the Hari Raya holidays is Hari Raya Haji, or the “festival of pilgrimage”. This day marks the end of the Muslim pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. At this time also you will see huge festivals from Malaysia to celebrate this particular Muslim festival.
Deepavali
Deepavali is known as the festival of lights. If you visit little India in Singapore during this time, you will see special lighting fixtures that commemorate this particular Hindu festival. Throw in any Hindu temple there, and you will see special candles lit to show that good has triumphed over evil. This is one of the most important holidays for Indians in Singapore.
Taking into account any of the above holidays, which are exclusively in Singapore, you will be able to catch the special celebrations that are planned at this time. Therefore, it will provide a better view of the diversity that Singapore has to offer.