Singapore is a cosmopolitan society where people live harmoniously, and interaction among different races are commonly seen. The pattern of Singapore stems from the inherent cultural diversity of the island. The immigrants of the past have given the place a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences, all of which have intermingled. So there are many colourful festivals and events held in Singapore

Chingay Parade of Dreams

Chingay began in Singapore as an expression of communal unity and celebration in 1973 to replace the absence of the traditional firecrackers released every Chinese Year after its ban in 1972. The first procession was totally Chinese with a potpourri of stilt walkers, big-headed dolls, pugisitic groups, mini opera, prancing lion and dragon dancers and flag bearers.

Today, Chingay has evolved to be the grandest street parade in Asia showcasing the rich, vibrant multi-culturalsim of Singapore, and the exotic and exciting cultures from all over the world. The parade features not only the best local and international performers but also many of Asia's most beautiful and specticular floats.

Deepavali (Festival of Lights)

Deepavali or "Festival of Lights" is annually held in November as to celebrate the triumph of Lord Krishna over the evil Narakasura. Lord Krishna symbolizes goodness while Narakasura represents evil; that's why it concerns with "lights," which clearly depict purity. So to speak, light will always win darkness and good can always conquer evil.

Deepavali is considered a most important day of Hindu calendar, and is arranged in Little India, another ethnic area of Singapore. It's times for rejoicing and renewal of especial Hindus and Sikhs. Of course, oil lamps play a unique part of this festival as it is believed that there are spirits of departed relatives who come back to earth and so the lights are the guidance for those wandering souls to their subsequent world. For the Indians, this festival is like a New Year celebration, while they welcome relatives and friends at their own homes for exchanging some blessings.

During this auspicious time, Serangoon Road in Little India and temples in that area such as Sri Veerama Kaliamman, Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman, and Sri Srinivasa Perumal are adorned with spectacular display of fairy lights, garlands of jasmine, and colorful arches to mark this festive period. People pour into Little India at night for celebrations, sightseeing, and festive goods such as costumes, food, furniture, arts, crafts, and jewelries.

Deepavali is taken into account of Singapore's important festivals for this time helps harmonize people, promote goodwill, and share understanding through various ethnic groups.

Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Haji is a Muslim celebration held annually in February but counted as the 12th month of the Islamic calendar. The pilgrims perform the pilgrimage to the Islamic sacred city of Mecca. Male pilgrims are given the title of Haji, while female pilgrims Hajjah. The highlight is that they sacrifice goat or buffalo (which later would be given to the poor) as the gratitude to Allah (Muslim God) at dawn first and then chant prayers at the mosque. Muslim families also visit each others' homes during this festival.

Chinese New Year

The most special festival held around January or February, but mostly in February. It lasts for 15 days yet within the two public holidays with joyful celebrations and feastings. Chinese people all over Singapore would come home for a family reunion dinner one night before the festival starts.

As this festive period covers 15 days, it brings so much money to the China Town as it is the first place people would go for shopping. Along the footpath, colorful decorations can be seen and full of shops selling red papers with the writing of Chinese calligraphy (good words, good meanings), Chinese pastries, firecracker, and other golden myriad of things, which represent brightness and prosperity.

Red envelops are used for sending cards whether being as an expectation of Chinese children who so much enjoy getting red envelop called "hong bao" with some money inside from their parents and older relatives. Most children tend to save this money rather than to spend it improperly.

One thing not to miss is prayer to gods by those who give offerings at Chinese temples or little altars set at various places, mostly in China Town. During this festive season, tons of chicken, ducks, pork, fishes, and fruits are sold. Some people bring fruits (mainly oranges) along with them to visit their relatives as this is considered as the symbol of good fortune and they would get "hong bao" in return. Hong bao can be given to adults as well as to children. And those meats are used as offerings to gods. They actually make offerings at home rather than at temples because almost every Chinese family has small altars at their places.

During this festival, the other two events are held in accordance; these are the River Hong Bao and the Chingay Parade.