Catch dragon and lion dance performances in Singapore for maximum prosperity and fortune in the Year of the Horse. Scroll down for a list of timings and where to watch them.
With Chinese New Year right around the corner, one thing we can look out for is lively lion and dragon dance performances in Singapore. This century-old traditional dance is performed to beating drums and clanging gongs as a form of celebration. Want to check out the fun? Here’s everything you need to know about lion and dragon dance, as well as where to watch performances!
What is lion dance?
Northern lion (left) and Southern lion (right). Photography: Choo Yut Shing via Flickr (left), Tanakawho via Flickr (right)
The lion dance is a traditional Chinese performance with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Performed to usher in good luck, prosperity, and positive energy, lion dances are a staple at Chinese New Year celebrations, business openings, and festive occasions.
Legend has it that an unknown creature, Nian, would crash villages every CNY, devouring crops and livestock. Villagers quickly realised Nian hated loud noises, bright lights and all things red. And just like that, the iconic lion dance was born.
Lion dance styles are mainly divided into northern and southern varieties. Often performed in pairs, Northern Chinese lion (Bei Shi) costumes mimic real lions and look more realistic with long, shabby fur. The dance focuses on flips, coordinated tricks and a touch of humour.
The Southern Chinese lion (Nan Shi), the most recognisable and predominant style in Singapore, resembles dragon costumes with horns on the lion’s head and expressive eyes that blink, roll, and even wink. The movements are more powerful and grounded, with lots of dramatic and playful interactions – especially during cai qing, where the lion plucks lettuce and or mandarin oranges to symbolise wealth and good fortune.
What’s the difference between dragon dance and lion dance?
Dragon dance (left) vs lion dance (right). Photography: Singapore Teng Yang Association via Instagram, Beaver Fernandez via Unsplash
As the name suggests, dragon dance and lion dance are two vastly different performances. Lion dance – the more commonly seen performance – requires two people (one guiding the head and the other, the body). They remain concealed and control the costume, bringing it to life.
Meanwhile, the dragon dance features an 18-metre-long dragon and involves a large team of about 12 performers. They use long poles to create flowing, serpentine motions. During the dance, the dragon pursues the “pearl of wisdom” (a sphere on a pole), which symbolises the continuous search for knowledge and vital energy.
With dances that differ in style, the lion’s movements are acrobatic with martial arts influences, while the dragon dance focuses on flow, more footwork and group coordination.
Where to watch free lion and dragon dance performances in Singapore
1. Tiger’s Huat Squad
Photography: Wee Ghee Athletic Association via Instagram
This lion dance troupe has been brewing up huat points over CNY. Spot the Huat Squad’s debut with five cute lions at their supermarket and coffee shop roadshows.
When: Various dates and timings
Address: Tiger’s Huat Squad, multiple locations including S11 Ang Mo Kio, Sheng Siong Khatib Central and FairPrice Tanjong Pagar Plaza
2. Roadshows by Singapore Teng Yang Association
Photography: Singapore Teng Yang Association via Instagram
Teng Yang Association has a full line-up from 1 February to 14 February 2026 and will be showing off their lions at selected 7 Eleven outlets, BHG, as well as at various supermarket locations. Be ready to catch the roar, rhythm and blessings!
When: From 1 February to 14 February 2026
Address: Teng Yang, multiple locations including selected 7-Eleven, BHG and supermarket outlets (check out their socials for more details)
3. Sensoryscape and Glow Garden at Sentosa
Photography: Sentosa
Watch lions defy gravity as they perch, leap and pull off heart-stopping stunts on towering poles at Sensoryscape, Glow Garden in Sentosa.
When: 17 to 18 February, 5pm to 6.30pm
Address: Sentosa, at Sensoryscape, Glow Garden (in front of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Beach Station
4. Heng Ong Huat @ Chinatown Smith Street CNY Festive Market
The most exciting CNY festivities always unfold at Chinatown, and that includes lion dance performances. Look out for show-stopping routines by Tian Eng and Chin Woo Athletic Association along Pagoda Street and Smith Street.
When: 17 January, 2pm at Pagoda Street; 24 January, 1pm at Smith Street and 1.30pm at Pagoda; 31 January, 1pm at Smith Street and 6pm at Pagoda Street
Address: Heng Ong Huat @ Chinatown Smith Street CNY Festive Market, Smith Street, Singapore 058921
5. Spring of Fortune @ HDB malls
Let’s not forget the heartlands: HDB malls are buzzing with the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs as lion dances bring the festive energy to life in malls including Kitchener Complex, Plantation Plaza and Northshore Plaza.
When: Various dates and timings for different malls (check out the mall’s socials for more information)
Address: Spring of Fortune @ HDB malls, multiple locations including Kitchener Complex, Plantation Plaza and Northshore Plaza
6. Fraser Malls
Photography: White Sands Mall
Leap into Fortune across the malls of Frasers Property! They bring multiple CNY performances, including dragon dance, twin lions for cai qing performance and war drums, lion dance on high poles. One highlight is the LED lion dance and war drums at Waterway Point on 14 February at 7pm – you won’t want to miss out on this special modern lion dance performance.
When: 14 to 25 February 2026, various timings and dates for different malls
Dragon dance performance: 20 February to 26 February 2026, various timings and dates for different malls
Address: Frasers malls, multiple locations including Northpoint City, Century Square and White Sands
7. Ikea
Photography: Ikea
Usher in good luck for the Year of the Horse with a traditional lion dance performance at Ikea outlets, followed by the symbolic cai qing to welcome prosperity into the new year.
When: 22 February 2026, 11am at Ikea Alexandra and Tampines; 28 February 2026, 11am at 28 February 2026
Address: Ikea, all outlets including Alexandra, Jurong and Tampines
8. Ion Orchard
Photography: Ion Orchard
Experience Chinese New Year at Ion Orchard with spectacular lion dance performances. From the thunder of drums to the graceful leaps of the lions, every corner of the mall will be filled with festive energy and excitement.
When: 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 28 February and 1 March 2026 at 3.08pm
Address: Ion Orchard, Level 1 outdoors, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801
9. Suntec City
Celebrate Chinese New Year at Suntec City on 20 February with spectacular lion and dragon dance performances! Watch as Pho Leng Lion Dance Instruction Centre dazzles with high-pole acrobatics, and don’t miss the traditional “plucking the greens” ceremony for a touch of festive luck.
When: 20 February 2026, 10.38am onwards
Dragon dance performance: 20 February 2026, 10.38am onwards (together with lion dance)
Address: Suntec City, Atrium (Towers 3 & 4), 3 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038983
10. Jurong Point Shopping Centre
See the lions come alive at Jurong Point! Join the CNY fun at JP1 Centre Stage on 20 February for a lively lion dance performance.
When: 20 February 2026, around 2 to 3pm
Address: Jurong Point Shopping Centre, 1 Jurong West Central 2, Singapore 648886
11. West Mall
Get ready for a roar of festive fun at West Mall! The award-winning Yi Wei Athletic Association brings its Dragon and Lion Dance showcase to life. Think thunderous drums and a whirlwind of CNY cheer you won’t want to miss!
When: 23 February, 5pm; 28 February & 1 March 2026, 2pm
Dragon dance performance: Same timings, performed with lion dance
Address: West Mall, Level 1 Atrium, 1 Bukit Batok Central, Singapore 658713
12. One Raffles Place
This one’s for those working in the CBD – usher in prosperity and good fortune at One Raffles Place with an interactive lion dance performance, strategically happening on the ninth day of the Lunar New Year, which is widely regarded as a highly auspicious day symbolising prosperity and good fortune.
When: 25 February 2026, 11.08am
Address: One Raffles Place, entrance at Level 1, 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
13. Raffles City
Photography: Raffles City
Bring the family to Raffles City this Lunar New Year! Watch lions on high poles and drums filling the mall with festive cheer. And a majestic dragon dance, and rhythmic drum performances that fill the mall with energy, color, and cheer.
When: 24 February 2026, 11am
Dragon dance performance: Same timing, performed together with lion dance
Address: Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 170103
14. Compass One
Watch in awe as lions soar to new heights with daring acrobatics – a spectacular show awaits at Compass One!
When: 20 to 22 February 2026, 11.30am & 5.30pm
Address: Compass One, Level 2 Atrium, 1 Sengkang Square, Singapore 545078
15. Woodleigh Mall
Woodleigh Mall is brimming with Lunar New Year spirit. Enjoy lively lion dances, rhythmic drums, and joyous celebrations for all ages. Bring the little ones for their kids’ lion dance workshop!
When: 20 February 2026, 12pm
Address: Woodleigh Mall, Level 1 Atrium, 11 Bidadari Park Drive, Singapore 367803
16. Thomson Plaza
Thomson Plaza is roaring with Lunar New Year energy. Don’t miss the Lion Dance extravaganza filled with colour, rhythm, and festive cheer.
When: 20 February 2026, 6.28pm
Address: Thomson Plaza, The Canopy, 301 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574408
17. AMK Hub
Don’t miss the Lunar New Year excitement at AMK Hub! Lions leap on 20 February, and high-pole stunts take over from 21 to 22 February.
When: 20 February 2026, 6.48pm (B1 Atrium); 21 to 22 February, 6.48pm (main entrance)
Address: AMK Hub, B1 Atrium & main entrance, 53 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 569933
18. Great World City
Celebrate Lunar New Year at Great World City with The Great Fortune Festival! Enjoy a lineup of performances, from mesmerising wushu displays to traditional Chinese dances, and catch the lion dance kicking off at 6 pm – all brimming with festive energy and good fortune.
When: 21 February 2026, 6pm to 6.30pm
Address: Great World City, Level 1 Atrium, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, Singapore 237994
19. Safra Tampines
Watch the lions soar in a freestyle high-pole performance by the award-winning Yiwei Athletic Association at Safra Tampines! With rhythmic drums, dazzling costumes, and champion-worthy moves, this vibrant tradition of luck and prosperity is a must-see spectacle.
When: 7 February 2026, 11.30am to 12pm
Address: Safra Tampines, lobby front porch, 1/A Tampines Street 92, Singapore 528882
20. Quan Shui Wet Market
Don’t miss Quan Shui Wet Market’s lion dance performances in Singapore – come by once a day or on both days for double the huat.
When: 7 to 8 February 2026, 1.30 to 2.15pm
Address: Quan Shui Wet Market, 50 Tagore Lane, Singapore 787494
Good luck catching the dragon and lion dances in Singapore, and may the Year of the Horse gallop your way with bigger wins and brighter fortunes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of lion dance during Chinese New Year?
Lion dance is performed to usher in good luck, prosperity, and positive energy for the new year. The loud drums, gongs, and cymbals are believed to scare away evil spirits, while the lion itself symbolises courage, strength, and protection.
What’s the difference between lion dance and dragon dance?
A lion dance is performed by two dancers sharing one costume, focusing on acrobatic, expressive movements. A dragon dance involves a larger team manipulating a long dragon using poles, creating flowing, wave-like motions that symbolise wisdom, power, and abundance.
Why do lion dances pluck lettuce and oranges (cai qing)?
Cai qing symbolises the act of “plucking wealth”. Lettuce represents fortune because the Chinese word sounds like “wealth”, while mandarin oranges symbolise luck and prosperity. When the lion spits them out, it’s believed to spread blessings to the audience or business.
What do the different lion dance colours represent?
Lion colours carry symbolic meaning: red represents happiness and prosperity, gold and yellow signify wealth and power, black symbolises courage and protection, green stands for harmony and new beginnings, while white traditionally represents purity and mourning.
When can you watch lion and dragon dances in Singapore?
Most lion and dragon dance performances in Singapore take place during Chinese New Year, especially at shopping malls, wet markets, heartland areas, and business openings. Peak periods include the first 15 days of the Lunar New Year.
Are lion and dragon dance performances free to watch in Singapore?
Yes, many Chinese New Year lion and dragon dance performances in Singapore are free, especially those held at malls, public spaces, markets, and community events. Some large-scale shows may require registration, but most are open to the public.
