Experience the Vibrant Chingay Parade in Singapore
Lights, camera, more lights…and ACTION! Chingay, Singapore’s multinational extravaganza, is Asia’s largest street performance and float parade. Held during the city-state’s Chinese New Year celebrations, it has captivated audiences since 1973. With its growing popularity, numerous complementary events have also sprung up, offering more ways than one to enjoy the giant celebration that is Chingay. Here’s how to immerse yourself in the exuberant, colorful festivities.
Chingay Parade
Originally intended as part of Lunar New Year celebrations, Singapore’s dazzling Chingay Parade has evolved and broadened, becoming a multi-ethnic heritage and culture showcase. Expect vibrant displays featuring spectacular floats, cultural dances, traditional costumes, martial arts demonstrations, stilt walkers, lion dancers, aerial acts, and much more that transform the Little Red Dot into a must-see show destination.
Every year, a new theme brings the event to life, turning this time-honored tradition into a high-tech demonstration. No matter the theme, the grand finale is always a treat for the senses, with light effects, fireworks, and shimmering colors lighting up the night sky. Although you may not always know what to expect, rest assured it will be a bright, lively, and enjoyable experience. This uniquely Singaporean Lunar New Year celebration is held over two nights, making early ticket purchases essential as they sell out quickly.
The Chingay Parade takes place annually on the second weekend of the Lunar New Year. Tickets are available at www.chingay.org.sg.
Chingay Carnival
In the shadow of the twinkling Singapore Flyer, the Chingay Carnival is a whimsical wonderland packed with art installations, family-friendly activities, and games, including life-sized Jenga and go-karting. Performers from the Chingay Parade flit through the carnival, providing an up-close view of their intricate costumes, which also make for excellent Instagram photos. Entry to the three-day carnival is free, but visiting on the final day is preferable as the F1 racetrack converts into a huge adventure playground, complete with an inflatable obstacle course.
Chingay in the Heartlands
To truly experience Chingay like a local, head to one of the Chingay Heartlands locations, where the celebration spills into Singapore’s neighborhoods. Previous years have seen a Night Fiesta held on Orchard Road, parade floats journeying through local communities, and cultural performances sprinkled throughout the Lion City. It resembles a gigantic neighborhood block party, enhanced by stunning floats! Make sure to check the official website www.chingay.org.sg for details on these additional events, which change each year.
