Joanna James
Known as a cultural melting pot, Singapore is a nation that boasts many traditions and festivals displaying its diverse tapestry of cultures. Here is a peek at the country’s awesome celebrations which are worth visiting.
For all those looking for opportunities to immerse themselves in Singapore’s diverse culture, taking part in the Chinese New Year is a great way to experience this feature. You can walk through the streets which are adorned with vibrant shades of red. Take part in cultural events that showcase traditional practices. Some of the events you need to keep an eye out for include the Chingay Parade, Chinatown Extravaganza and River Hongbao. Stay at a Singapore luxury hotel during this season and you will be able to celebrate in style as many such accommodations offer festive experiences and packages during this period.
Celebrated throughout India, especially in its southern region, Pongal is a festival commemorated among the Indian community in Singapore. The festivities fall on the month of Thai and are known as a harvest event which is similar to Thanksgiving when people are grateful for wealthy crops. One of the best places you can experience this celebration is Little India. You get activities like bazaars, cultural shows and cooking demonstrations. If you stay at a property like Orchard Hotel Singapore you will be able to visit this destination in about 10 minutes by vehicle.
Commemorated during the Mid-Autumn Festivities, the Singapore Lantern Festival is a dazzling sight to behind. You get awesome lantern displays of diverse sizes and shapes on exhibit bathed by the moonlight. A host of cultural events like music, dance and performances are also on offer to enthrall onlookers. This is a great event for families to enjoy as there are numerous activities that will keep even the youngest participant enthralled.
Vesak marks the three stages of the Buddha’s life: birth, enlightenment and passing away. It is a sacred festival which Buddhists celebrate by engaging in spiritual activities, reflection and spreading compassion. Temples are lit up during this day and you get many rituals taking place here. Devotees worship the Buddha by offering flowers, joss sticks and candles. Meritorious acts like giving to the needy and releasing animals from imprisonment are also done.
Taking place usually on the 15th night of the seventh month, the Hungry Ghost Festival sees many unique observances coming to the fore. It is held to connect living beings with their dead ancestors and offer merits to them. Therefore, many activities like offering food, performing ancestral rites, colourful performances and customs are performed at households and public places. Such acts give anyone witnessing the deeds a glimpse of the rich traditions and beliefs connected with the Chinese inhabitants of the country.
August 9 marks the National Day in Singapore. It is a vibrant and energetic celebration of liberation from Malaysia and gives visitors a peek at the country’s culture, history and patriotism. There are many firework displays, parades and events that link communities together on offer. Two events that you need to keep an eye out for include the underwater flag presentation at the S.E.A. Aquarium and the National Day Moonlight Flight at Singapore Flyer.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
