Chinese New Year in Singapore

A moving date and two public holidays

Chinese New Year begins on the first day of the Chinese calendar year, so its Gregorian date changes annually. Singapore’s Holidays Act lists Chinese New Year as two public-holiday days. Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to 11 paid public holidays a year, including both days of Chinese New Year.[1][2]

The arrangements depend on an employee’s work schedule. If a public holiday falls on a rest day, the next working day is a paid holiday; if it falls on a non-working day, the employee is entitled to another day off or an extra day’s salary. Employees who work on a public holiday are generally entitled to extra pay, though employer and employee may agree to a day off in lieu.[2]

Family reunion and festive visits

For many Chinese families in Singapore, the reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve is a central occasion. Extended family members gather to share a meal and welcome the new year together. During the holiday, people visit relatives and friends, exchange greetings and gifts, and give red packets. When visiting, it is customary to bring a pair of mandarin oranges and receive a pair in return; the exchange is associated with wishes for good fortune.[3]

Yusheng and lo hei

A distinctively familiar sight at Singapore family, workplace and restaurant gatherings is lo hei: diners stand around a plate of yusheng, add ingredients while reciting auspicious phrases, then toss the mixture together. The dish’s name connects fish and life with abundance and growth; the communal tossing expresses hopes for good fortune and togetherness. People of different backgrounds may join in, and the practice is also observed in Malaysia.[4]

Chingay and everyday arrangements

Singapore’s Chingay parade grew from a procession associated with Chinese New Year into a multicultural event involving performers and community groups. Its first modern parade took place in 1973, after firecrackers were banned and the government sought another way to create festive excitement. The parade is usually held during the second week of Chinese New Year, and its performances reflect Singapore’s diverse communities.[5]

The public-holiday status does not guarantee that every workplace or business closes. The Revenue House service centre closes on public holidays. Shops, eateries and other services may set their own hours, so visitors should check directly before making plans.[2][6]