Help usher in the Year of the Rat in swinging Singapore

In February 2008, Singapore will attract visitors from around the globe to join in its internationally acclaimed Chinese New Year celebrations.

Combining symbolism and ritual with spectacle and revelry, next year’s festivities are expected to be the biggest ever staged by the Lion City to commemorate this important event on the Chinese calendar.  

Throughout the fifteen days of celebrations – this year being staged to usher in the Year of the Rat – Singapore will come alive with cultural shows, colourful performances and light up spectaculars.

Keeping in line with tradition and legend, fireworks and the colour red will play an important role in scaring away evil spirits and bad fortune.

“Singapore is a magical place during the Chinese New Year festivities,” said Mr Kevin Leong, Regional Director Oceania, Singapore Tourism Board. “You can’t help but be drawn into the joy and symbolism that surrounds the celebrations, and visitors are very welcome and encouraged to join in the fun.”

The origins of Chinese New Year are linked to the legend of the Nian – a man eating beast said to have once terrorised the Chinese people by hunting for human flesh on the first and fifteenth of every month. On these days, the terrified people would lock themselves within their homes for protection. One fateful night, instead of locking themselves away, they came together beating drums, burning bamboo and lighting fireworks to scare off the monster. The plan worked, the people were free and a new era – a New Year – was celebrated. 

Today, the Chinese celebrate Chinese New Year as a way of putting the past behind them, and looking ahead to the success and prosperity that they hope the new year will bring for all their family, relatives and friends.

In 2008, special features of Singapore’s New Year celebrations include:

Chinatown New Year Light-up: 19th January – 29th February 2008

The Light-up Ceremony marks the start of the festive season with Chinatown bursting into life with exhibitions, parades and cultural displays. Tasty and exciting street market fare, traditional lion dragon dances and fantastic fireworks displays are just some of the spectacular events that will transform this heartland of the local Chinese community.

Chinese New Year Countdown: In 2008, Chinese New Year falls on February 7th and will be celebrated all over the city with lanterns to chase away the evil spirits. A spectacular Countdown Party will be held in Chinatown, with the partying and revelry expected to continue throughout the night.

Singapore River Hongboa (SRHB): 5th Feb 2008 – 16 Feb 2008

A cultural wealth of interest and entertainment, the Singapore River Hongbao (SRHB) at Esplanade Park promises to outdo itself once again in 2008.

Showcasing the traditions and cultures of the people of Shenyang City in China, the SRHB features several spectacular outdoor exhibits including a cultural village and a prosperity garden. A wishing tree and a 20 metre high ‘God of Fortune’ make this the place for all revellers to embrace prosperity and luck for the New Year.

Chingay Parade of Dreams: 15 Feb 2008 – 16 Feb 2008

Colourful and festive floats parading throughout the city, local entertainment and music galore, onlookers crowding the streets – this is Singapore’s annual Chingay Parade of Dreams.

Marching bands, dancers and street performers from all over the world come together in an amazing spectacle that is truly a highlight of the New Year celebrations.

Previously held in Orchard Road, this year the parade moves to Marina Bay, with the festivities guaranteed to be bigger then ever before.

For both young and old, locals and visitors, the Singapore celebrations in February 2008 offer exciting and enticing events throughout the fifteen days of Chinese New Year.

For further information about Chinese New Year festivities in Singapore, visit www.visitsingapore.com or contact the Singapore Tourism Board on (02) 9290 2888.

A Report by The Mole