Chinese New Year in Singapore is more than a public holiday. It is a city-wide celebration that lasts for weeks, filling streets with red and gold, temples with incense, and homes with reunion meals and laughter. The energy, colour, and sense of renewal make Chinese New Year Singapore celebrations some of the most exciting in the world.
Chinese New Year 2026 highlights what Singapore does best. Whether you are travelling, celebrating with family, or searching for the perfect cheongsam qipao dress, the season offers something for everyone. From buying Chinese New Year clothes online to coordinating family outfits Singapore style, the festivities extend well beyond the official holidays.
This guide highlights the best things to do during Chinese New Year 2026 in Singapore, from must-see events and ideal timing tips to cultural highlights and styling the Nimbu Chinese New Year collection, helping you celebrate with ease and confidence.
When Is Chinese New Year 2026?
Chinese New Year 2026 begins on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, with celebrations starting the evening before on Monday, 16 February 2026, which is Chinese New Year’s Eve. The public holiday continues on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, but in Singapore the festive mood extends well beyond these official dates. Decorations, events, and shopping activities usually begin weeks earlier, making this one of the longest and most vibrant celebration periods of the year.
Chinese New Year 2026 Event Guide
1. Chinatown Street Light-Up 2026 (Coming Soon)
Source: Chinatown Festivals Faceebok
As the sun sets, Chinatown transforms. Thousands of lanterns light up the streets, each telling a story of prosperity, zodiac symbolism, and hope. In 2026, expect intricate designs aligned with the zodiac animal of the year, glowing beautifully against the night sky.
- Dates: Estimated Mid January to late February 2026
- Time: Evening, approximately 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Place: Chinatown along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road
- More information: Visit Singapore | Instagram
Tip: Visit on a weekday evening to avoid peak crowds. This also makes it easier to capture stunning photos.
2. Chinatown Festive Street Market and Bazaar
Source: Visit Singapore
- Dates: Late January to 16 February 2026
- Time: Day and evening, around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Place: Chinatown Street Market area
- More information: Official Website
3. Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown Party
Source: Canva.com
- Date: 16 February 2026
- Time: Evening, approximately 8:00 PM to midnight
- Place: Selected open areas and stages in Chinatown
- More information: https://www.visitsingapore.com
4. River Hongbao at Gardens by the Bay
Source: Gardens by the Bay Facebook
River Hongbao is one of Singapore’s most iconic Chinese New Year events, and it perfectly blends tradition with modern spectacle. Set against the futuristic backdrop of Gardens by the Bay.
- Dates: Estimated 14 to 22 February 2026
- Time: Evening, approximately 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Place: Gardens by the Bay
- More information: River Hongbao Website
Planning your visit becomes even more enjoyable when your outfits and schedule come together seamlessly. Nimbu offering beautifully crafted Cheongsam and Mandarin shirts for the whole family, makes it easy to coordinate matching looks for festive outings and gatherings. With everyone dressed in style and prepared in advance, your celebrations feel more meaningful, memorable, and stress-free.
5. Temple Visits & Traditional Rituals
Source: Canva.com
Temple visits are a quieter but deeply meaningful part of Chinese New Year. Many families go early in the morning to pray for health, peace, and prosperity.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Day)
Located in Chinatown, this temple attracts large crowds during Chinese New Year. Visitors light incense, make offerings, and spend time in quiet reflection.
- Time: Morning to afternoon
- Place: Chinatown
- More information: https://www.buddhatoothrelictemple.org.s
Thian Hock Keng Temple (Day)
One of Singapore’s oldest temples, Thian Hock Keng is known for prayers related to safety and success. The atmosphere here feels grounded and historical.
- Time: Morning to afternoon
- Place: Telok Ayer
- More information: https://www.thianhockkeng.com.sg
6. Lion & Dragon Dance Performances Across Singapore
Lion and dragon dances are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. During Chinese New Year, these performances pop up everywhere
- Dates: Late January to mid February 2026
- Time: Daytime, around 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Place: Shopping malls and neighbourhood community centres
- More information: Individual mall websites and community notices
7. Photography & Social Moments
Best Spots for Chinese New Year Photos (Day & Evening)
- Chinatown streets
- Gardens by the Bay
- Marina Bay skyline
- Heritage shophouses
Dress up, slow down, and capture moments. These photos become memories you’ll revisit long after the decorations come down.
8. Reunion Dinners & Yu Sheng
Source: Canva.com
Yu Sheng tossing is loud, messy, and joyful—just as it should be. Families and friends gather around the table, tossing raw fish salad while shouting auspicious phrases for wealth and success.
Restaurants book out fast during this period, so planning ahead is crucial. Many families now organise reservations, guest lists, and timing through smart planners like Nimbu, keeping everything seamless and stress-free.
Chinese New Year Shopping in Singapore
Chinese New Year shopping in Singapore is more than preparation—it’s part of the celebration. From festive snacks to home décor and outfits, getting ready builds excitement long before the actual Chinese New Year dates. For many families, choosing the right clothes is a top priority, especially with visits, reunion dinners, and photo moments lined up.
Chinese New Year Clothes Online: Smart Shopping Tips
Shopping Chinese New Year clothes online has become the go-to choice for busy families. It’s convenient, time-saving, and offers far more variety than crowded malls.
To shop smart:
- Buy early (January is best) to avoid sold-out sizes
- Always check size charts carefully
- Look for coordinated family sets
- Choose breathable fabrics suited for Singapore’s heat
Brands like Nimbu fit naturally into this trend, offering festive designs made from 100% cotton—perfect for staying cool and comfortable in Singapore’s tropical weather. Online shopping also makes it easy to compare traditional and modern styles without the stress.
Family Outfits Singapore: Coordinated Festive Looks
Ruby Blossom Family Sets by Nimbu
Coordinated dressing is a growing trend in family outfits Singapore. The idea isn’t to match exactly, but to look harmonious and well put together.
Popular combinations include:
- Matching colour palettes like red, gold, or soft pastels
- Mum in a cheongsam modern style with kids in complementary prints
- Dad in a simple mandarin-collar shirt
With comfortable, breathable fabrics like those from Nimbu’s Crimson Harmony Collection, families can look festive while staying relaxed all day. The result? Better memories, better photos, and a smoother Chinese New Year celebration overall.
Conclusion: Celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 in Singapore with Meaning and Ease
Chinese New Year 2026 in Singapore is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a season filled with light, culture, family, and renewal. From knowing exactly when Chinese New Year 2026 begins, to exploring iconic events like the Chinatown Street Light-Up and River Hongbao, every moment offers a chance to slow down and reconnect.
Whether you’re soaking in evening lantern displays, joining a lively Yu Sheng toss, visiting temples in the quiet morning hours, or capturing family photos against festive backdrops, planning ahead makes all the difference. Coordinating your schedule, outings, and outfits early helps you enjoy the celebration without stress.
FAQs
1. When is Chinese New Year 2026 in Singapore?
Chinese New Year 2026 starts on 17 February 2026, with celebrations beginning on 16 February 2026 evening.
2. How long do Chinese New Year celebrations last in Singapore?
Official holidays last two days, but festivities usually span several weeks.
3. What are the top Chinese New Year events in Singapore?
Top events include the Chinatown Street Light-Up, Chinatown Festive Bazaar, Chinese New Year Countdown Party, River Hongbao at Gardens by the Bay, and lion and dragon dance performances across the island.
4. Is shopping for Chinese New Year clothes online a good idea?
Yes, shopping online offers convenience, variety, and early access to sizes.
5. What should families wear during Chinese New Year?
Coordinated outfits in breathable fabrics, such as modern cheongsams and mandarin-collar shirts, are popular. Family sets like Nimbu’s Crimson Harmony Collection, designed for comfort in Singapore’s tropical weather.