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Celebrate the Bright and Joyful Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore

Lantern Festival 2021 Singapore

Celebrate the enchanting Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore and immerse yourself in a mesmerizing display of vibrant lanterns and cultural performances.

The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuan Xiao Jie, is one of the most anticipated celebrations in Singaporean culture. This event marks the end of the Chinese New Year festivities and is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. The festival is a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity for the community.

Are you excited to know what's in store for this year's Lantern Festival in Singapore? Well, hold on tight because we have all the exciting information that you need!

Firstly, did you know that the Lantern Festival has been celebrated for over 2,000 years? It has become a tradition for families to gather and enjoy the colorful lantern displays and indulge in sweet glutinous rice balls called Tang Yuan.

This year's Lantern Festival celebration in Singapore promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With an array of activities and performances lined up, it's an event that you wouldn't want to miss.

Are you ready to witness traditional lion dances and dragon dances that will leave you mesmerized? These vibrant performances are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Don't forget to bring along your cameras and capture the dazzling display of lanterns in all their glory. You will be amazed by the sheer craftsmanship and intricate details that go into these beautiful lanterns.

If you love food, then you're in luck because the Lantern Festival offers a wide range of delectable delicacies. From traditional fare such as mooncakes and Tang Yuan to contemporary twists such as lantern-shaped cakes, there is something for everyone.

To add to the excitement of the festival, visitors can participate in various interactive activities such as making their own lanterns, solving riddles, and even enjoy a hot air balloon ride!

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore, which will take place on the 26th of February at the Gardens by the Bay. With so much to see and do, it's an event that promises to be unforgettable for both locals and tourists alike.

In conclusion, the Lantern Festival is an event that celebrates Singapore's rich heritage and vibrant culture. With exciting performances, delicious food, and interactive activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So why wait? Come and experience the magic of the Lantern Festival in Singapore for yourself!

The Lantern Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the most important cultural events in Singapore. This year, it's going to be celebrated on September 21. People of Chinese descent celebrate the festival with lots of enthusiasm and zeal throughout the island. The festival is considered one of the most significant festivities of the year. It symbolizes family reunion, love, and harvest.

The Origin of the Lantern Festival

The story behind the Lantern Festival dates back over 2000 years ago during the Han Dynasty. The festival started as a celebration of the end of the Autumn Harvest. It was a time for farmers to rest after the harvest. The Emperor ordered that lanterns be lit on the fifteenth night of the eighth lunar month.

Over the years, the festival has evolved into a broader event that emphasizes the importance of family and friendship. During this time, people would also give their respects to the Moon goddess and offer prayers for blessings and good fortune.

The Customary Activities

The Lantern Festival is celebrated with various fun-filled activities such as lighting and releasing sky lanterns, moon-gazing, enjoying delicious mooncakes, and playing with lanterns. It’s a time to reunite with family and friends, enjoy each other’s company, and create long-lasting memories.

Sky Lanterns

Lighting and releasing sky lanterns are believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. Many locals flock to the beach or open fields to release their sky lanterns. In the daytime, craft stalls offer make-your-own lantern activities for children and families to enjoy together.

Mooncake Festival

The Mooncake Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, would not be complete without indulging in some delicious mooncake; a traditional Chinese pastry filled with sweet lotus seed paste or red bean paste and paired with jasmine tea. Many bakeries in Singapore offer unique flavors of mooncakes such as durian, chocolate, and green tea to cater to the modern local's taste buds.

Places to Celebrate the Lantern Festival

Singapore is a multi-cultural hub, and the Lantern Festival is celebrated by all communities on the island. Some of the popular places to celebrate the Lantern Festival in Singapore include:

Gardens by the Bay

The Gardens by the Bay features traditional lantern displays, cultural performances, and activities for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy the garden’s beautiful light displays while enjoying traditional snacks and drinks.

Chinatown

Another location to celebrate the Lantern Festival is Chinatown. Visitors can witness the streets decorated with thousands of colorful lanterns and indulge in an array of street food delights. The Chinatown Street Market is also open for visitors to explore and shop for Lunar New year goodies.

Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island celebrates the Lantern Festival with interactive lantern installations and cultural performances by local performers. Visitors can soak up the festival's atmosphere and enjoy some beach fun in the sun.

Conclusion

The Lantern Festival is a special time of the year that brings people together to celebrate family, friends, and the harvest season. It's an important cultural event that Singaporeans take pride in, and it’s not surprising due to its significance and meaning. Although the pandemic has put a halt on large gatherings of celebration, Singaporeans will still find ways to celebrate this momentous occasion while observing strict health and social distancing measures.

Introduction

The Lantern Festival is celebrated throughout various countries in Asia. In Singapore, this festival has a special place in the hearts of the people as it symbolizes the harmony and unity that is deeply embedded within the country's culture. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Lantern Festival in Singapore. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the festival scaled down its events and celebrations compared to previous years. Let us take a closer look at how the Lantern Festival was celebrated in Singapore this year through this comparison blog article.

Location

2020

For the 2020 Lantern Festival in Singapore, the events were held in Gardens by the Bay which features a magnificent display of lights and lanterns. With a scenic view of Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay provided a perfect backdrop for the festivities.

2021

This year, the location of the Lantern Festival was shifted to Jurong Lake Gardens. This change in venue allowed for a more intimate celebration and greater focus on the cultural significance of the festival. However, many people missed the grandeur and impressive displays that Gardens by the Bay had to offer.

Location 2020 2021
Gardens by the Bay Yes No
Jurong Lake Gardens No Yes

Presence of crowds

2020

The 2020 Lantern Festival in Singapore saw a significant presence of crowds as locals and festival-goers visited the Gardens by the Bay to witness the grandeur of the light display. The event ran from mid-November to end December, making it accessible to all.

2021

This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the presence of crowds at the Jurong Lake Gardens was limited. Attendees had to book their slots for entry through an online booking system. While this ensured safe distancing measures, it took away the spontaneity and buzz of the festival atmosphere that would have been amazing to experience.

Presence of crowds 2020 2021
Significant presence Yes No
Online bookings necessary No Yes

Activities

2020

The 2020 Lantern Festival had numerous activities for visitors to partake in. There were cultural performances, interactive workshops, carnival rides, outdoor movie screenings, and an enchanting lantern trail showcasing different themes and stories.

2021

The 2021 Lantern Festival refused to let COVID-19 completely dampen its spirit. Visitors could still experience traditional craft-making workshops such as lantern-making or indulge in some traditional snacks. However, most of the interactive activities and performances were replaced with virtual experiences

Activities 2020 2021
Cultural performances Yes No
Interactive workshops Yes Yes
Carnival rides Yes No
Outdoor movie screenings Yes No
Traditional craft-making workshops Yes Yes
Virtual experiences No Yes

Weather

2020

In 2020, Singapore's weather during the Lantern Festival was warm and beautiful. Walking through the lantern trail in Gardens by the Bay was a pleasant experience for all as there were mild breezes and comfortable temperatures.

2021

This year, the Lantern Festival at Jurong Lake Gardens saw significant rainfall which dampened the outdoor activities. Visitors had to seek shelter or postpone their visit due to wet conditions. Unfortunately, unfavorable weather made it difficult for people to experience the festival events properly.

Weather 2020 2021
Warm and beautiful Yes No
Rainy weather No Yes

Conclusion

The Lantern Festival in Singapore remains a beloved and annually celebrated cultural event. While this year's celebration didn't come close to the grandeur of years past, the event organizers did make an effort to ensure the continuity of the festival as much as possible while adhering to safety measures. Despite this year's limitations, we can look forward to next year's festival with eagerness and anticipation for a more vibrant celebration of this cultural heritage.

Lantern Festival 2021 Singapore: A Guide

Looking for a unique, cultural experience this season? The Lantern Festival in Singapore could be exactly what you need! This vibrant festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month and is celebrated with lantern displays, food offerings, and mooncakes. Here’s everything you need to know about the Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore.

The History of Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival dates back to ancient China when it was believed that lanterns guided spirits to their new homes. It then became a celebration of joy and reunion, where people lit lanterns, ate mooncakes, and admired the full moon. Since then, it has been celebrated in other East Asian countries, including Singapore.

When and Where is the Lantern Festival 2021?

This year, the Lantern Festival will be celebrated on September 21. Gardens by the Bay is a popular place to visit for incredible lantern displays during this festival. Other venues include Chinatown, River Hongbao, and Jurong Lake Gardens.

What to Expect During the Festival?

Lanterns of all shapes and sizes will light up the night sky in Singapore during the festival. Traditional lanterns such as the rabbit, dragon, and lotus are commonly seen, but you’ll find a range of modern and creative ones too. Make sure to try traditional foods during the festival, including mooncakes, a pastry filled with sweet bean paste or lotus seed paste. There are also cultural performances, such as dragon and lion dances, and traditional Chinese music.

Tips Before You Go

If you decide to visit Gardens by the Bay (our top recommendation!), we advise arriving early to avoid crowds and enjoy the view in peace. Don’t forget to bring some cash, as there are limited ATMs around the festival. Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing as it can get hot and humid in Singapore. Bringing your own water bottle is also recommended.

How to Get There?

Most visitors opt for public transportation, which is why MRT or bus is a popular choice to go around Singapore. The nearest MRT station to Gardens by the Bay is Bayfront Station (CE1/DT16). From there, take Exit B and follow the underground linkway, passing through Marina Bay Sands’ retail mall. Keep walking until you reach the Dragonfly Bridge.

Joining Festivals During Covid-19

As the Covid-19 pandemic affects everyone, it’s important to remember to wear a mask and keep socially distanced. Some events at festivals may have restrictions that limit the number of people who can attend. Always check the latest health guidelines of the Singaporean government before you go.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is usually after dark when the lanterns are lit up, making it an unforgettable experience. The crowds are generally denser on weekends, so visiting on weekdays could mean shorter lines and less hassle.

Photography Tips

Taking photos during the Lantern Festival can be tricky because of the low-light conditions. We suggest using a tripod to avoid blur, and try experimenting with a long exposure setting to capture the movement of lanterns. Another popular photography hack would be to use a phone app such as the Night Sight function for Android phones and Night Mode for iPhones.

What to Bring Home from the Festival

Don't forget to bring home something that reminds you of Singapore. At the end of the night markets or near food stalls, vendors sell handicrafts, bags, and souvenirs that make a great take-home gift. For the ultimate souvenir, get a beautiful traditional lantern for your own home.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to experience a one-of-a-kind festival, then the Lantern Festival is the perfect event to attend. From the lantern displays to the food and performances, there’s something for everyone. But remember, it’s crucial to consider the restrictions currently in place due to the pandemic. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the beauty of the Lantern Festival!

As the Chinese New Year celebrations come to a close, Singaporeans and tourists alike look forward to another spectacular event, the Lantern Festival. This year, the Lantern Festival will take place on 26 February 2021 and promises to be even more colourful and vibrant than before.

The Lantern Festival is also known as Yuan Xiao Jie or Shangyuan festival in Chinese. It falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month and marks the end of the Spring Festival celebrations. This festival is celebrated by lighting and displaying colourful lanterns in parks and streets throughout the country.

This year, the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) is hosting the Lantern Festival with the theme Rise of the Phoenix. Visitors can expect a dazzling display of brightly coloured lanterns depicting phoenixes and other mythical creatures from Chinese legends.

The SCCC has partnered with the National Parks Board to host the event at the Gardens by the Bay. The gardens will be transformed into a magical wonderland with lanterns of all shapes and sizes lining the paths. There will also be cultural performances, food stalls and traditional art and craft workshops.

One of the highlights of the Lantern Festival is the Yun Jian (雲劍) performance. This is a traditional form of dance that originated from Taiwan. It involves dancers carrying long poles with lanterns attached to them, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

There will also be an immersive light installation called Flight of the Phoenix that will showcase the rise and fall of the phoenix through the different seasons. Visitors can walk through a tunnel of lights and be transported to a mystical world.

If you are looking for a unique experience, head to Chinatown for their own Lantern Festival celebrations. In Chinatown, the streets are adorned with lanterns of various designs, including ones specially designed by local artists.

There will also be a street bazaar selling all kinds of Chinese New Year goodies such as pineapple tarts, love letters, and other traditional snacks. You will also get to experience lion and dragon dance performances, which are believed to bring good luck and fortune.

The Singapore River hawker centre will also be joining in the festivities with their own Lantern Festival celebrations. They will be setting up a large lantern tunnel that visitors can walk through while enjoying local delicacies. The hawker centre will also be decorated with colourful lanterns and lights, creating a joyful atmosphere for all.

Besides these main events, many other parks and shopping malls will also be hosting their own lantern festivals. One such example is the River Hongbao at Marina Bay, where visitors can experience giant lanterns, fireworks and live performances.

In conclusion, the Lantern Festival promises to be a delightful experience for both locals and tourists alike. So, be sure to mark your calendars for February 26th, 2021, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Singapore!

We hope you have enjoyed this article and learned more about the Lantern Festival in Singapore. Do not miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this unique experience, and we look forward to seeing you there!

As the Lantern Festival 2021 approaches in Singapore, people have several questions in mind. Here are some of the common People also ask queries regarding the festival:

  1. When is the Lantern Festival happening in Singapore in 2021?
  2. The Lantern Festival will take place on 21st September 2021, Tuesday.

  3. Where do people typically celebrate Lantern Festival in Singapore?
  4. The Chinatown area is where you will find the most significant and elaborately decorated lanterns during the Mooncake Festival. Still, Singaporeans celebrate it across the island, in public spaces, malls, parks, and temples.

  5. What is the significance of the Lantern Festival, and why is it celebrated?
  6. The Lantern Festival is a Chinese festival's final day to celebrate the end of the lunar new year celebrations. Also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, it is observed by Chinese communities worldwide. People light and carry around brightly colored lanterns, symbolizing the harvest and good fortune.

  7. What activities can one participate in during Singapore's Lantern Festival?
  8. The Lantern Festival in Singapore offers a host of activities, including lighting sky lanterns and walking down themed streets to absorb the festive vibes. Other activities include shopping at the street bazaars, amusement park rides, and cultural performances.

  9. Are there any events or performances lined up for the Lantern Festival celebration in Singapore?
  10. Yes, the celebration features performances filled with traditional dance and music, including the witnessing of lion dances and dragon dances that are accompanied by beating drums and clashing cymbals. Light shows and fireworks displays light up the night sky, adding to the colorful atmosphere and excitement.

People Also Ask About Lantern Festival 2021 Singapore

What is the Lantern Festival?

The Lantern Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar. It marks the end of the autumn harvest and is a time for family gatherings, moon appreciation, and lantern displays.

When is Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore?

Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore will be celebrated on September 21st, which corresponds to the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar.

How is the Lantern Festival celebrated in Singapore?

In Singapore, the Lantern Festival is celebrated with various activities and events. One of the highlights is the Lantern Walk, where participants carry beautifully crafted lanterns and walk along designated routes to admire the illuminated displays. Cultural performances, traditional music, and dance shows are also organized during the festival. Additionally, families gather to enjoy mooncakes, a traditional festive treat, and appreciate the full moon together.

Are there any special events or locations to visit during Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore?

Yes, there are several special events and locations worth visiting during Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore. The Gardens by the Bay usually hosts a lantern display and cultural performances, providing a stunning backdrop for celebrations. Chinatown is another vibrant area with lantern decorations, street stalls selling festive goodies, and lively performances. The Singapore River is also a popular spot to witness beautiful lantern displays and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Can I participate in lantern-making workshops during Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore?

Yes, you can participate in lantern-making workshops during Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore. These workshops are often organized by community centers, cultural organizations, or event organizers. They provide an opportunity for both children and adults to learn the art of lantern-making and create their own unique lantern designs.

Are there any traditional customs or rituals associated with Lantern Festival?

Yes, there are several traditional customs and rituals associated with Lantern Festival. One of them is the lighting of lanterns, which symbolizes family unity and prosperity. Another popular tradition is the gifting of mooncakes, which are round pastries typically filled with lotus seed paste or other sweet fillings. Mooncakes are exchanged among family members and friends as a symbol of reunion and good luck.

Is Lantern Festival only celebrated by the Chinese community in Singapore?

No, Lantern Festival is not only celebrated by the Chinese community in Singapore. It has become a multicultural event embraced by people from various ethnic backgrounds. The festival's vibrant lantern displays, cultural performances, and festive atmosphere attract locals and tourists of all nationalities to join in the celebrations.

What COVID-19 safety measures will be in place during Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore?

As the Lantern Festival 2021 in Singapore takes place during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is likely that certain safety measures will be implemented to ensure the well-being of participants. These measures may include crowd control, mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, hand sanitization stations, and social distancing guidelines. It is recommended to stay updated with the latest advisories and follow the instructions provided by event organizers and local authorities.