With the Year of the Goat fast approaching, Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road and South Bridge Road have been dressed up with goat-themed lights to get set to welcome the Lunar New Year.
Official celebrations kick off this Saturday, 31 Jan 2015, with the Light-up and Opening Ceremony at 6 pm. Even if you can’t make it then, here are six other reasons to visit Chinatown this during the coming festive period.
1. View the Lights
The Chinatown lights come on from 7 pm every evening between 31 January and 19 March 2015. This year, the light-up features a refreshing and innovative Goat-themed design conceptualised by the Singapore University of Technology and Design.
2. Festive Street Market
Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple Street and Trengganu Street are lined with stalls selling traditional New Year goodies, decorative items and clothing. Soak in the atmosphere and stock up on yummy cookies at the same time!
3. Chinatown Wishing Tree
Visit the Chinatown Wishing Tree located at Chinatown Point. Inspired by the tree in Lam Tsuen, Hong Kong, it is believed that if you throw a mandarin orange tied to your wishes into the tree and it stays on the tree, your wishes will come true.
4. Lion Dance Competition
What is the Lunar New Year without lion dances? Catch top troupes from Singapore the Asia Pacific battle it out at the 8th International Lion Dance Competition taking place on 7 February. This is a ticketed event.
5. Nightly Stage Shows
Being held at Kreta Ayer Square from 31 January till 18 February between 8 pm and 10.30 pm, catch lively cultural performances, festive songs and music and dance acts performed by both local entertainers and troupes from China.
6. Chinatown Walking Trail
Take in the history of Chinatown on a walking trail. Conducted in English and limited to ten participants per session, your guide will bring you through Chinatown’s streets to discover its history and heritage. Registration required.
Get more information on the Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations here.
More Ideas
For more ideas on exploring Chinatown, read our Little Day Out’s guide to exploring this historic district of Singapore with kids.
Chinese New Year Themed Activity Pack
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