Chinese New Year (estimated)
🏪 What's open
- Banks Closed
- Government offices Closed
- Schools Closed
- Shops Varies
- Restaurants Reduced
- Public transit Reduced
- Stock market Closed
- Post office Closed
🛋️ Long weekend potential
4-Day Block4-day weekend with a bridge day on January 28
📣 Traveler notes
Singapore is a multicultural city-state offering a blend of modern infrastructure, diverse culinary scenes, and vibrant cultural celebrations. It serves as an accessible hub with a variety of experiences ranging from high-end shopping to traditional local markets.
- Many small shops may close for 2-3 days during Chinese New Year, though major malls and restaurants remain open.
- Expect vibrant decorations and crowds in Chinatown during the Lunar New Year period.
- Public transport and major attractions remain operational during most festivals.
- Dress conservatively when visiting temples or mosques (no bare shoulders/midriffs).
- Be mindful of sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and local identity.
- Punctuality is expected in professional business environments.
- Respect local customs regarding dress codes in places of worship (modest clothing required) and public behavior (avoid public displays of affection). When visiting homes, remove shoes before entering. Be mindful of dietary restrictions: many locals are Muslim (halal only), Hindu (no beef), or vegetarian. In business settings, exchange cards with both hands and avoid giving gifts to government employees. During the Hungry Ghost Festival, do not sit in the first row of street performances.
About this holiday
Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) is a major traditional holiday marking the start of the lunar calendar, typically occurring in late January or early February. The celebration lasts 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. Other significant cultural festivals include the Dragon Boat Festival (celebrated with rice dumplings and races), the Hungry Ghost Festival (involving offerings for ancestors), and the Mid-Autumn Festival (known for lantern displays and mooncakes).