Hold your horses — the year of the horse is here, and Singapore is galloping into another spectacular Chinese New Year celebration! With dazzling lantern displays, electrifying parades, elegant floral showcases and vibrant street markets, this is the perfect time to saddle up and immerse yourself in the city’s festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a local planning a festive staycation or a visitor trotting through Singapore’s celebrations, here are the top things to do this Chinese New Year.
As night falls, the River Hongbao 2026 transforms Gardens by the Bay into a luminous wonderland. Marvel at giant glowing lanterns, be dazzled by nightly fireworks, and immerse yourself in performances that bring Chinese culture to life beneath the sparkling Marina Bay skyline — a magical way to welcome the new year.
This Chinese New Year, Singapore’s streets become a canvas of colour, light, and movement at Chingay 2026. Themed 'WISH', this year's parade features the first-ever circular parade route, a transformable multi-tier stage packed with special effects, and breathtaking performances, perfect to rein in some festive cheer.
Chinese New Year kicks off as Chinatown bursts into a sea of red and gold. Along New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street, lively drummers, dancers, and crackling firecrackers fill the streets with festive energy. The irresistible aroma of bak kwa, sweet tang yuan, and other seasonal treats drift through the air, tempting every passerby. Everywhere you look, market stalls overflow with decorations, gifts, and lucky charms, creating a vibrant, immersive celebration that captures the spirit of Chinese New Year.
Step into a breathtaking Chinese masterpiece at the Flower Dome, where this year’s theme, “Spring Blossoms – Gallop into Prosperity,” brings the Lunar New Year vividly to life. Be awed by eight majestic, life-sized horse lanterns, handcrafted by skilled artisans, as they stride through a magical landscape of plum blossoms, orchids, chrysanthemums, and bamboo. Stroll through gardens inspired by the serene beauty of classical Jiangnan landscapes, and don’t miss the Blooming Drum of Spring — give it a beat for a touch of good luck!
Feast Your Eyes (and Stomach) on Festive Finds
Chinese New Year shopping in Singapore is more than just picking up goodies; it’s about soaking in the festive spirit. Explore Singapore’s malls and bustling streets, where festive decorations, cultural performances, and lucky mascots bring the vibes of Chinese New Year to life.
When You Check In, Good Fortune Checks In Too
Start your Chinese New Year on the luckiest note possible with a traditional lion dance performance at Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay. Watch as the lions spring to life in a powerful display of rhythm, colour, and culture — believed to chase away bad luck and invite prosperity for the year ahead.
Why stay with us?
After a day of dazzling lanterns, thrilling parades, fireworks, and festive feasting, there’s no better place to unwind than Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay, your home for comfort and celebration right in the heart of the action.
Enjoy:
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FREE Express Start Breakfast with every stay
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Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
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Rooftop pool & 24-hour fitness centre
Psst… Stay from Friday to Sunday and enjoy our Extend Your Stay For $1 for early check-in at 11 AM and late check-out at 2 PM — because festive nights deserve slow mornings.