A mesmerising festivity featuring great cultural diversity and a vibrantly colourful atmosphere, Singapore’s magnificent Chingay Parade never fails to delight the spectator. The parade is noted for its procession of spectacular floats, and the international and local multicultural performances which offer a glimpse into the celebratory traditions which are close to the hearts of all Singaporeans. The parade is a truly enthralling experience which should be on the itinerary of every visitor to the Lion City.

Chingay in fact in the Hokkien dialect translates to ‘the art of masquerade’ and it is a fitting title for this sensational extravaganza. The vibrant occasion has been called Singapore’s counterpart of the Mardi Gras, delighting viewers with sensational costumes, magnificent floats and stunning street performances.   Probably Asia’s most extravagant street and float parade, the Chingay takes to the streets of Singapore for two nights of revelry in the Chinese New Year season. 

Each year’s festivities seem more exciting than the last, with a captivating explosion of colour and vibrancy showcasing elaborately attired performers and intricately adorned floats dazzling spectators in front of the stately City Hall.  

This important national festival commenced in 1973 as a small-scale neighbourhood affair which was completely Chinese in nature. Since then the parade evolved steadily, and today serves as an occasion when local organisations, thousands of residents and visitors as well as international performers participate.

Singapore is always an enthralling country to visit, with its well known shopping opportunities, unique cuisine and cosmopolitan nature drawing a multitude of visitors from around the world each year; events like the Chingay Parade undoubtedly add to its allure.