The 15-day long Chinese New Year festival is an annual spectacular fiesta in Singapore and 2016 is no exception. It is not just about the customary house visiting and red packet gifting – there is so much ongoing outside too! For starters, visit the Chinatown precinct and join in the good cheer; savour Lunar New Year goodies and photograph the flamboyant light show etc.

Venture beyond the neighbourhood of Chinatown to catch Asia’s largest street performance Chingay Parade and the various Huayi Festival performances at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay.

If Chinatown’s festive street bazaar is not for you, these are 3 Activities That You Can Enjoy For Chinese New Year 2016.

#1 CHINESE NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN PARTY

Every year, the Chinese New Year Countdown Party is something that we either take part in onsite, or watch on television.

Located at the heart of Chinatown, usher into the Year of the Monkey with vibrant live performances such as festive songs and interactive games hosted by MediaCorp artistes. There will be a stunning fireworks display as well!

When: 7 February 2016
Where: New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

Source: Chingay

#2 CHINGAY PARADE

The annual Chingay Parade is a large-scale Lunar New Year event showcasing Singapore’s multicultural society.

Growing up, we would always gather around the television excitedly and wait for the live telecast. Today, we still enjoy watching the series of performances such as martial arts, dragon dance and street opera. This annual ticketed national event sure is a highlight of Chinese New Year.

The parade kickstarts at 8pm, and tickets on sale are priced at S$28.50 onwards.

When: 19 – 20 February 2016
Where: F1 Pit Building (Next to Singapore Flyer)

Source: Esplanade

#3 HUAYI, THE CHINESE FESTIVAL OF ARTS

Huayi, The Chinese Festival of Arts is held at the iconic Esplanade Theatres on the Bay across 10 days and showcases a myriad of outstanding performances by Chinese artistes from all over the world.

From Taiwanese choreographed robotic dance, Chinese household name Gong Linna’s concert to a Macbeth satire, it is performing arts at its finest.

When: 12 – 21 February 2016
Where: Esplanade Theatres on the Bay

For more recommendations, read our guide to 5 Fun Things To Do In Singapore This Chinese New Year.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.