Singapore Festivals & Events Calendar 2026: What's On Month by Month
Singapore, a vibrant island nation, offers a kaleidoscope of festivals and events throughout the year, perfect for a memorable family vacation in 2026. From cultural celebrations to thrilling sporting events, there's always something happening. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip, highlighting the best events month by month.
January: A Fresh Start
January in Singapore is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city. Hotel prices are typically moderate after the New Year rush.
New Year's Day Celebrations
Dates: January 1st
What Happens: Singapore rings in the New Year with dazzling fireworks displays, lively street performances, and family-friendly activities. Many gather at Marina Bay for the main fireworks show.
Where to Go: Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Gardens by the Bay.
Ticket Costs: Free (for outdoor viewing); some venues may charge for entry.
How to Participate: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Many restaurants and bars offer special New Year's Eve packages.
Insider Tip: The fireworks can be seen from many vantage points around the bay. Consider a picnic at Gardens by the Bay for a more relaxed experience.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
Artbox Singapore
Dates: Typically held in late January (check official dates)
What Happens: A large-scale creative art market featuring independent artists, designers, and food vendors from Singapore and Southeast Asia. A great place to find unique souvenirs and sample local street food.
Where to Go: Singapore EXPO
Ticket Costs: Free
How to Participate: Just show up! Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekend evenings.
Insider Tip: Go early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the market in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
February: Lunar New Year Festivities
February is dominated by the vibrant Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year) celebrations. Hotel prices can be higher during this period.
Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)
Dates: Varies each year (typically late January or early to mid-February)
What Happens: A 15-day celebration filled with lion dances, festive markets, delicious food, and family gatherings. The Chingay Parade is a highlight, showcasing elaborate floats and performances.
Where to Go: Chinatown, River Hongbao (Gardens by the Bay), Chingay Parade (F1 Pit Building & Marina Bay).
Ticket Costs: River Hongbao is free; Chingay Parade tickets range from $28.50 to $70.
How to Participate: Visit Chinatown to soak in the atmosphere, attend the River Hongbao for cultural performances, and watch the Chingay Parade.
Insider Tip: Chinatown gets extremely crowded during this period. Take public transport and be prepared for long queues. Visit the River Hongbao at night for the best light displays.
Hotel Price Impact: High.
Thaipusam
Dates: Late January or early February, depending on the Hindu calendar
What Happens: A vibrant and intense Hindu festival where devotees carry kavadis (ornate structures) as a form of penance and devotion to Lord Murugan. A truly unique cultural experience.
Where to Go: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple
Ticket Costs: Free to observe (respectful attire required)
How to Participate: Observe the procession respectfully from designated viewing areas. Photography is allowed but be mindful of devotees.
Insider Tip: This is a very sacred event. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and avoid obstructing the procession.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
March: Arts and Culture
March offers a great mix of cultural events and pleasant weather. Hotel prices are generally moderate.
Singapore Design Week
Dates: Usually held in March (check official dates)
What Happens: A celebration of design in all its forms, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and talks by local and international designers.
Where to Go: Various locations across Singapore, including National Design Centre and design studios.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event; some events are free.
How to Participate: Check the Singapore Design Week website for a schedule of events and register for workshops and talks in advance.
Insider Tip: Look out for free exhibitions and open house events at design studios.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
World Gourmet Summit
Dates: Late March/Early April (check official dates)
What Happens: A culinary extravaganza featuring masterclasses, wine tastings, and special menus at top restaurants. A treat for foodies!
Where to Go: Participating restaurants across Singapore.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event and restaurant.
How to Participate: Make reservations at participating restaurants well in advance. Book tickets for masterclasses and wine tastings early as they tend to sell out quickly.
Insider Tip: Look out for special lunch menus, which offer a more affordable way to experience the World Gourmet Summit.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
April: Sporting Spirit
April is typically warm and humid. Hotel prices remain moderate before the summer peak.
HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens
Dates: Usually held in April (check official dates)
What Happens: A thrilling international rugby tournament featuring top teams from around the world. A fun-filled weekend with exciting matches, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
Where to Go: National Stadium.
Ticket Costs: From $59 for a single-day pass.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance. The event also features food stalls and entertainment for the whole family.
Insider Tip: Dress up in your team's colors and join in the fun! The atmosphere is electric.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
May: Celebrations and Spirituality
May brings a mix of religious and cultural celebrations. Hotel prices are moderate.
Vesak Day
Dates: Varies each year (typically in May)
What Happens: A Buddhist festival celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Temples are decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees offer prayers and participate in charitable activities.
Where to Go: Buddhist temples across Singapore, such as Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum and Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery.
Ticket Costs: Free
How to Participate: Visit a temple to observe the celebrations respectfully. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Insider Tip: Many temples offer vegetarian meals on Vesak Day. Try the free food stalls for a taste of traditional Buddhist cuisine.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA)
Dates: Usually held in May/June (check official dates)
What Happens: A showcase of cutting-edge theatre, music, dance, and visual arts from Singapore and around the world.
Where to Go: Various venues across Singapore, including Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay and Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the performance.
How to Participate: Check the SIFA website for a schedule of events and purchase tickets online in advance.
Insider Tip: Look out for free performances and talks.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
June: Food and Fun
June is typically hot and humid. Hotel prices start to rise as the summer travel season begins.
Singapore Food Festival
Dates: Usually held in June/July (check official dates)
What Happens: A celebration of Singapore's diverse culinary heritage, featuring hawker food, Peranakan cuisine, and innovative dining experiences. A must for food lovers!
Where to Go: Various locations across Singapore, including hawker centers, restaurants, and pop-up food markets.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event.
How to Participate: Explore hawker centers and try a variety of local dishes. Attend food workshops and cooking demonstrations.
Insider Tip: Download a hawker food guide app to help you navigate the vast array of options.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
Pink Dot SG
Dates: Usually held in June (check official dates)
What Happens: An annual event in support of the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore. While demonstrations are heavily restricted, this often takes the form of picnics and gatherings in Hong Lim Park.
Where to Go: Hong Lim Park
Ticket Costs: Free
How to Participate: Show your support by wearing pink and joining the gathering. Check the Pink Dot SG website for updates and guidelines.
Insider Tip: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding public gatherings.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal.
July: Great Singapore Sale and More
July is known for the Great Singapore Sale and is still hot and humid. Hotel prices are high.
Great Singapore Sale (GSS)
Dates: Usually held from June to August
What Happens: A massive shopping extravaganza with discounts on everything from fashion to electronics. A paradise for bargain hunters!
Where to Go: Shopping malls across Singapore, including Orchard Road, Marina Bay Sands, and Bugis Street Market.
Ticket Costs: Free (shopping is optional!)
How to Participate: Head to the malls and start shopping! Look out for special deals and promotions.
Insider Tip: Shop during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
Hotel Price Impact: High.
August: National Day Celebrations
August is a patriotic month with National Day celebrations. Hotel prices are high.
National Day
Dates: August 9th
What Happens: Singapore celebrates its independence with a grand parade, fireworks displays, and cultural performances. A proud and festive occasion.
Where to Go: The Float @ Marina Bay, Padang
Ticket Costs: Tickets to the parade are limited and distributed through a ballot system. Free viewing areas are available around Marina Bay.
How to Participate: Watch the parade on TV or online. Visit Marina Bay to enjoy the fireworks and atmosphere.
Insider Tip: The fireworks can be seen from many vantage points around the bay. Consider a picnic at Gardens by the Bay or a rooftop bar for a great view.
Hotel Price Impact: Very High.
September: Mid-Autumn Festival
September brings the Mid-Autumn Festival and slightly cooler weather. Hotel prices begin to decrease slightly.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Dates: Varies each year (typically in September or early October)
What Happens: A traditional harvest festival celebrated with mooncakes, lanterns, and family gatherings. Gardens by the Bay hosts a stunning lantern display.
Where to Go: Chinatown, Gardens by the Bay, Chinese Garden.
Ticket Costs: Gardens by the Bay's lantern display is free.
How to Participate: Visit Chinatown to buy mooncakes and lanterns. Attend the lantern display at Gardens by the Bay.
Insider Tip: Try different flavors of mooncakes. They are a seasonal delicacy.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
October: Thrills and Spills
October is a shoulder season with pleasant weather. Hotel prices are generally moderate.
Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix
Dates: Late September/Early October (check official dates)
What Happens: A night race through the streets of Marina Bay, featuring world-class drivers and thrilling action. Also includes live concerts and entertainment.
Where to Go: Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Ticket Costs: From $298 for a single-day pass.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance. The event also features food stalls and entertainment.
Insider Tip: Book your tickets and accommodation well in advance, as they sell out quickly.
Hotel Price Impact: Very High.
November: Deepavali and More
November is a month of cultural celebrations. Hotel prices are moderate.
Deepavali (Diwali)
Dates: Varies each year (typically in October or November)
What Happens: A Hindu festival of lights, celebrating the victory of good over evil. Little India is decorated with colorful lights and decorations, and families exchange gifts and sweets.
Where to Go: Little India.
Ticket Costs: Free
How to Participate: Visit Little India to soak in the atmosphere. Try Indian sweets and snacks.
Insider Tip: Little India gets very crowded during Deepavali. Take public transport and be prepared for long queues.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate.
December: Festive Cheer
December is a festive month with Christmas celebrations. Hotel prices are high.
Christmas Wonderland
Dates: Late November/December (check official dates)
What Happens: A festive Christmas market with light displays, amusement rides, and food stalls. A magical experience for the whole family.
Where to Go: Gardens by the Bay.
Ticket Costs: From $9.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance. Visit the market to enjoy the lights, rides, and food.
Insider Tip: Visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
Hotel Price Impact: High.
New Year's Eve Celebrations
Dates: December 31st
What Happens: Similar to January 1st, Singapore rings in the New Year with dazzling fireworks displays, lively street performances, and family-friendly activities. Many gather at Marina Bay for the main fireworks show.
Where to Go: Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Gardens by the Bay.
Ticket Costs: Free (for outdoor viewing); some venues may charge for entry.
How to Participate: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Many restaurants and bars offer special New Year's Eve packages.
Insider Tip: The fireworks can be seen from many vantage points around the bay. Consider a picnic at Gardens by the Bay for a more relaxed experience.
Hotel Price Impact: Very High.
Singapore offers a diverse and exciting range of festivals and events throughout the year. By planning your trip around these events, you can create a truly unforgettable family vacation in 2026.