New Year’s Day in Singapore
New Year’s Day falls on 1 January and is one of Singapore’s 11 gazetted public holidays. Its local observance includes a public countdown on New Year’s Eve, with Marina Bay among the main gathering places.[1][2][3]
A public holiday under Singapore law
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower lists New Year’s Day among the 11 gazetted public holidays. Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to 11 paid public holidays each year; employees outside its coverage follow their employment contract.[1]
The day is not automatically a day off for every worker. Work on a public holiday is subject to the employment contract or mutual agreement. Employees required to work must receive an extra day’s basic salary, while other arrangements may be agreed under the applicable rules.[1][2]
Dates and substitute days
New Year’s Day is observed on 1 January.[3]
The treatment of a holiday falling on a weekend depends on the employee’s work schedule. If it falls on an employee’s rest day, the following working day becomes a paid public holiday. If it falls on a non-working day, an eligible employee is entitled to another day off or extra pay in lieu. For someone working a five-day week, MOM gives Saturday as an example of a non-working day and Sunday as a rest day.[1]
Countdown in Singapore
The celebration begins on New Year’s Eve. The Urban Redevelopment Authority describes the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown as a major local gathering, with live music, building projections and festive lighting before midnight, followed by fireworks. It brings people together to mark the coming year and share hopes for it.[3]
Marina Bay is not the only place to welcome the year. Specific programming can change; check official event information for the arrangements on a particular New Year’s Eve.[3]
What to expect on the day
Public-holiday rules set out employee entitlements and payment. Check with a particular business or service before travelling.
The countdown itself takes place the night before the public holiday. Those attending Marina Bay can expect a large public event with performances, projections and fireworks, though details may vary. Check the event organizer’s current information for visitor and transport arrangements.[3]
New Year’s Day in Singapore: FAQs
Is New Year’s Day a public holiday in Singapore?
Yes. It is one of Singapore’s 11 gazetted public holidays. Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to paid public holidays, subject to the Act’s rules.[1]
When is New Year’s Day observed?
It falls on 1 January. Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower lists New Year’s Day on that date in its official holiday calendar.[3]
Does everyone get the day off?
Are shops and restaurants open?
Opening hours vary. Check directly with the shop or restaurant you plan to visit.
Where can I join a New Year’s Eve countdown?
Marina Bay hosts the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown, which features live music, façade projections, festive lighting and fireworks. Event details may change, so check the official event information before going.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for New Year's Day in Singapore:
- Public holidays: entitlement and pay- Ministry of Manpower Singapore
- Can an employee be required to work on a public holiday?- Ministry of Manpower Singapore
- Marina Bay- Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore