Singapore is a rich multicultural nation, known for its cultural diversity, and this is reflected in the wide range of cultural festivals celebrated throughout the year. From grooving to lion dances on Chinese New Year to wandering down colourful streets during the Hindu Festival of Lights, and celebrating Singapore’s independence on National Day…the city goes all out for festivals and events. Here are nine of the best cultural festivals and events to enjoy in Singapore in 2025.
Top 2025 cultural festivals Singapore
1. Pongal Festival 2025
The traditional Indian harvest Pongal Festival returns from January 14 to 17. The multi-day Hindu harvest festival, celebrated by Tamils, sees Tamil culture light up Little India. Visitors can expect traditional dances, cooking contests, a festive light-up, feasting, gift-giving, and much more.
2. Art SG
ART SG is Southeast Asia’s leading international art fair part of Singapore Art Week (SAW). The art week runs from January 17 to 26, 2025, while ART SG takes place from January 17 to 19, 2025. Art lovers can enjoy more than 100 exhibitors from 30 countries, showcasing both local and global art, at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre. The event offers large-scale installations, film screenings, talks, visual art projections, and more across the city. Definitely, one of the best cultural festivals in Singapore for art enthusiasts.
3. Chinese New Year
On January 29, Chinese New Year will be one of the most significant cultural festivals in Singapore. January 2025’s CNY welcomes the Year of the Snake. Vibrant celebrations will take place across Singapore with festivities like lion dancers, temple worships, the Chinatown Light-Up, street parades such as the famous Chingay Parade, lantern displays, and much more. It’s the perfect time, no matter your race or religion, to gather with family in Singapore. Normally, celebrations last around 15 days between January and February 2025. Discover the best things to do for CNY in Singapore.
4. Hari Raya Puasa
Hari Raya Puasa, also know as Eid al-Fitr, will be celebrated on March 30 and 31, 2025. This holiday marks the end of Ramadan, known as a month of fasting, and is a significant celebration for Singapore’s Muslim community. The festival consists of morning prayers, family gatherings over festive meals, families wearing matching outfits, gift-giving, and much more. One particular event to watch out for is the Geylang Serai Bazaar in Singapore. Learn more about it here. Definitely, a delightful place to explore and eat traditional regional food. Definitely, a top Singapore cultural event.
5. Dragon Boat Festival
This popular traditional Chinese festival is expected to return on May 31, 2025. Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the ancient poet Qu Yuan. The festival in Singapore features exciting dragon boat races at Bedok Reservoir and DBS Marina Regatta, where teams paddle to the beat of drums. Meanwhile, locals can enjoy celebrations in Chinatown, cultural performances, workshops, and feasting on sticky rice dumplings known as zongzi, among other Chinese delicacies.
6. National Day 2025
National Day is an important celebration of Singapore’s independence although not strictly a cultural festival. On August 9, the city is brimming with exciting events. From military displays down by Marina Bay to stunning fireworks, electrifying music shows, the famous National Day Parade, and more…it’s the ultimate celebration of national pride and unity. Certainly, the perfect family day out regardless if you’re local or not. Read our National Day Guide.
7. Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a major event set to be celebrated on October 6, 2025. In fact, it is one of the most important cultural festivals for the Chinese community. It features vibrant lantern displays, mooncakes sharing, family gatherings, and light-ups across the city. From Chinatown to Gardens By The Bay…the city will be twinkling in colourful lanterns and installations. Plus, there’s always children’s competitions, dance shows, and bazaars to stroll around. Certainly, one of the best cultural festivals in Singapore. Read our Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore guide.
8. Deepavali 2025
Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is celebrated by Hindus to mark the triumph of good over evil. It should take place around October 20 or 21 in 2025. In Singapore, celebrations takes place mostly in Little India. The area is usually adorned in dazzling lights and festival arches, as well as traditional markets selling sweets, garments, and other goodies. Additionally, the festival offers cultural performances. Read our Deepavali in Singapore guide.
9. Christmas 2025
Christmas in Singapore is a vibrant, festive celebration that blends local traditions with holiday customs from around the world. Singapore transforms into a dazzling wonderland from mid November with iconic Christmas light displays at places like Gardens By The Bay and Orchard Road. From carnivals to themed dinners, festive shows, Christmas markets, and even artificial snow…Christmas in Singapore is one to remember despite the tropical weather. Definitely, one of the best cultural festivals in Singapore yearly. Discover all the best things to do at Christmas in Singapore.
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