This quick guide will tell you everything you need to know about celebrating Pongal in Singapore...
Just like Thaipusam and Deepavali, Pongal in Singapore is a popular harvest festival celebrated by South Indian Hindus in Singapore. This is when the neighbourhood of Little India comes to life with activities to commemorate the harvest festival. Not familiar with Pongal? Don’t worry – we’ve put together a helpful guide to give you a quick understanding of the vibrant festivities and how Pongal is celebrated in Singapore.
Guide to Pongal in Singapore
What is Pongal?
Pongal, meaning “to boil over” in Tamil, is a vibrant four-day harvest festival celebrated widely in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Falling between 14 and 17 January 2026, it marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai, an auspicious time in the Tamil calendar. This festival is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to honour prosperity and abundance. It also aligns with Makara Sankranti in the Hindu solar calendar, making it a shared celebration across various Indian communities.
While we might not be a land of sprawling farms, Pongal in Singapore holds cultural and spiritual significance for South Indian Hindus here and is celebrated with much enthusiasm. Think light-ups and festive decorations at Little India, a Pongal bazaar at Campbell Lane featuring everything from fresh produce like sugar cane to traditional sweets, and cultural performances.
How do people celebrate Pongal?
The festival starts with Bhogi Pongal. Hindus tidy their homes and toss out unwanted things in a metaphorical nod to a fresh start. In the villages, cows are revered with painted horns. And people offer prayers to Indra, the god of lightning, thunder, rains and river flows.
Next up, Surya Pongal or Thai Pongal. Hindu devotees pay their respect to the Sun God by boiling a pot of rice and milk at the crack of dawn. Remember the meaning of Pongal? The rice and milk overflow as the act symbolises prosperity and good fortune, and is then made into a sweet dessert called, you guessed it, Pongal. It’s also common to light up oil lamps and decorate the floors with coloured rice flour (kolam).
The third day is Mattu Pongal, where Hindus pay tribute to cows for their hard work. Who remembers the adorable animal parade in Little India in 2019 when cattle were adorned with flowers and red turmeric powder?
Finally, Kannum Pongal marks the end of the festivities. Families host reunions, children get blessings from their elders, and many visit the temple on this special day. These strengthen the ties between loved ones and the community.
Pongal events in Singapore
Stocked to experience the festival for yourself? You’re in luck as every year, the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) hosts a bevvy of events, and this year’s no different. Here are the coolest Pongal events to check out in Singapore.
1. Pongal Open House 2026
17 – 18 January
Ring in the harvest season with a joyful dose of culture at the Indian Heritage Centre’s Pongal Celebrations Open House 2026. This family-friendly event brings the spirit of village life to the heart of Singapore with free museum entry, live performances and hands-on activities for all ages. Expect colourful folk dances and storytelling skits, live pottery demonstrations, and plenty of craft stations where you can decorate cattle toys, personalise Pongal pot pins or design your own festive keychains.
Little ones will love the specially curated Pongal activity booklet, while food lovers can catch live Pongal cooking demos and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks. Don’t forget to swing by the festive market to support local Indian home-based makers, or dress up in traditional outfits at the Pongal Village photobooth.
Address: Pongal Open House 2026, 10am – 6pm, 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
2. Pongal events in your neighbourhood
All month
Looking to celebrate Pongal in your ‘hood? You’re in for a treat! The People’s Association has curated an exciting array of Pongal festivities happening across Singapore. From lively dance and music performances to live stations, there’s something for everyone.
Address: OnePA Pongal events, various timings and locations including Toa Payoh Central CC, Tampines West CC, and Fernvale CC
Who’s ready to experience Pongal in Singapore?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pongal and why is it celebrated in Singapore?
Pongal is a four-day South Indian harvest festival that gives thanks for abundance and prosperity. In Singapore, it’s widely celebrated by the Tamil community and marked with cultural events, prayers, food offerings and festivities, especially in Little India.
When is Pongal celebrated in Singapore in 2026?
In 2026, Pongal falls between 14 and 17 January, aligning with the Tamil month of Thai and the Hindu solar calendar’s Makara Sankranti.
How is Pongal celebrated in Singapore?
Celebrations include temple visits, boiling rice and milk as offerings, kolam floor art, cultural performances, festive markets and community events organised by groups like the Indian Heritage Centre and People’s Association.
Where can I experience Pongal festivities in Singapore?
Little India is the main hub, with light-ups, bazaars and performances. You can also attend Pongal Open House events at the Indian Heritage Centre and neighbourhood celebrations at community clubs islandwide.
Is Pongal family-friendly?
Yes. Most Pongal events are suitable for all ages, with craft activities, performances, educational exhibits and food experiences designed for families and children.
Do I need to be Hindu to participate in Pongal celebrations?
Not at all. Pongal events in Singapore are open to everyone and are a great way to learn about Tamil culture, traditions and community life.
