Looking for CNY events in Chinatown? You’ll find everything from lights and lion dances to festive fairs and activities for the whole family.
Is checking out CNY events in Chinatown with the family a CNY tradition for you? Or are you planning your first festive trip? Either way, Chinatown during Chinese New Year in Singapore is never dull and always buzzing with energy. Wander through the streets to admire vibrant decorations and soak up the ambience of festive fairs that bring the district to life. For more things to eat, see and do, check out our things to do in Chinatown Singapore guide.
Fun Chinatown events this CNY in Singapore
1. Chinatown 2026 CNY Street Light-Up
This year, the Chinatown Street Light-up is themed “Galloping into the Prosperous Year” as we enter the Year of the Horse. It takes place from now till 18 March 2026. On the eve of CNY, the lights will stay lit up till 6am on CNY day one.
The Chinatown Street light-up stretches out along South Bridge, Upper Cross Street, New Bridge Road, and Eu Tong Seng Street. At the heart of it is a magnificent 8.8m-tall golden horse. Surrounding sections feature a total of 60 galloping horses and 48 fruit motifs symbolising abundance.
When: Now till 18 March 2026, 7am to 12am; eve of CNY, 7am to 6am
Address: Chinatown 2026 CNY Street Light-Up, multiple locations including New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street
2. Festive Fair @ Chinatown
Photography: Visit Singapore
If you celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore, chances are, you’ve wandered through Chinatown’s festive fairs at least once. From vibrant decorations and traditional snacks to classic CNY must-haves, you’ll find everything that’s CNY-related along Sago Street, Smith Street, Temple Street, Trengganu Street and Pagoda Street.
Peanuts and melon seeds are the new durians during CNY, with various unique flavours and types every year. Feel free to sample and select the ones you prefer, as you’ll be overwhelmed by the variety. Expect to find all sorts of jellies and puddings, waxed meat, nian gao, assorted sweets and candies and more.
When: Now till 17 February 2026, Monday to Thursday, 11am to 10.30pm; Friday to Sunday, 11am to 11.30pm; eve of CNY, 11am to 1am
Address: Festive Fair @ Chinatown, multiple locations including Sago Street, Temple Street and Trengganu Street
3. Festive Fair @ People’s Park Square
Photography: Choo Yut Shing via Flickr
If the main Festive Fair @ Chinatown feels like a one-stop CNY bazaar, the fair at People’s Park Square offers a more curated experience, featuring festive decorations and lifestyle goods.
When: Now till 16 February 2026, 10am to 10pm
Address: Festive Fair @ People’s Park Square, open space in front of People’s Park Complex
4. Lion dance competition & live screening
- Photography: Tuan Vy via Pexels
Photography: Tuan Vy via PexelsGet ready for heart-pounding action and dazzling stunts at the Chinese New Year International Lion Dance Competition, back this weekend in Chinatown! Top lion dance troupes from Singapore, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand take the stage, bringing thunderous drums, acrobatic flips and breathtaking high-pole performances. There’s also a live screening happening at Kreta Ayer Square. For more lively action, check out where to catch free lion and dragon dance performances this CNY.
Price: $10 per pax
When: 7 to 8 February 2026, 6pm
Address: Lion Dance Competition & Live Screening, Kreta Ayer People’s Theatre, 30A Kreta Ayer Road, Singapore 088997
5. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Photography: Pixabay via Pexels
During Chinese New Year, many pay respects to Tai Sui, the zodiac guardian, to invite luck and protection for the year ahead. While you’re in Chinatown, drop by the iconic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – a temple and museum with free entry and five floors to explore.
Don’t miss the Orchid Garden on the top floor and the vegan restaurant in the basement. While photography isn’t allowed inside, the temple’s striking exterior makes the perfect backdrop for cheongsam photos amidst the festive-looking streets.
Opening hours: Daily, 7am to 5pm
Address: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
6. Mandarin orange carrier paper craft workshop
Photography: Rico Lee via Flickr
Add a handmade touch to your festive gifting at the Mandarin orange carrier paper craft workshop, where you’ll learn simple paper craft techniques to create and personalise a charming mandarin carrier that’s decorative and functional. The session is guided by Su Changtao, an experienced Singapore-based facilitator of traditional Chinese arts. You’ll use everyday materials like paper, scissors and glue to transform classic paper art into practical creations.
Ticket: $10 per pax
When: 8 February 2026, 10am to 12pm & 2pm to 4pm
Address: Mandarin Orange Carrier Paper Craft Workshop, Kreta Ayer Community Club, 28 Kreta Ayer Road, Singapore 088995
What are you waiting for? It’s time to soak in the festive buzz with CNY events at Chinatown in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Chinatown during Chinese New Year?
The festive buzz kicks off weeks before CNY, but the most vibrant period is the week leading up to CNY and the first few days of the new year. Visit in the evening for cooler weather and to catch the Chinatown Street Light-Up at its most dazzling.
Are Chinatown CNY events suitable for families with kids?
Yes! Most events are family-friendly, from festive fairs and lion dance performances to hands-on workshops. Just be prepared for crowds and keep little ones close during peak hours.
Do I need tickets to enjoy CNY events in Chinatown?
Most attractions, including the street light-up, festive fairs and temple visits, are free. Ticketed events include special performances like the International Lion Dance Competition and selected workshops.
What time do the Chinatown festive fairs usually close?
Most stalls operate till around 10.30pm on weekdays and 11.30pm on weekends, with extended hours on CNY eve when the festivities stretch past midnight.
Is it crowded during Chinese New Year in Chinatown?
Expect heavy crowds, especially in the evenings, on weekends and during CNY eve. If you prefer a more relaxed stroll, visit earlier in the day or on weekdays.
