What could be better than spending Chinese New Year in a country with a majority of chinese in the population? In 2011, we would be welcoming the Year of the Rabbit so watch as the whole country celebrates!
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a major traditional celebration in China and most southeast Asia countries. Till today, its origins are still unknown. However, according to one of the most widely popular legends, the word "Nian" which means "year", came from a beast that preyed on people on the eve of the new year. Everyone feared the beast as it had a big mouth and could swallow many people all at once. One day, an old man came along with hopes of subduing Nian. He succeded and to everyone's suprise, both him and Nian disappeared. Turns out, the old man was actually God. Before he disappeared, he warned that everyone should put up red decorations to scare Nian away as it was a colour he feared. This practice went on for generations. The term "Guo Nian" was born, meaning to "survive the Nian", which today means "celebrate the new year".
In Singapore, the joyous, festive mood can be felt way before the actual day.
The streets of Singapore will be filled with bright lights and shops everywhere play festive songs, along with red decorations that will be sure to get you into the festive mood as well. One of the liveliest places to be in during Chinese New Year is Chinatown. During this time, people can also be seen queuing up for goodies like Bakkwa. Bakkwa is a barbequed pork slice and it is a must-have in every household. Pineapple tarts and Nian Gao, or New Year cake are also must-haves as both symbolize prosperity. Another must-do during the celebration is the exchanging of mandarin oranges. When visiting friends and relatives, mandarin oranges are exchanged, along with spoken traditional greetings, as it is considered a gesture of goodwill. Plants like the Pussy Willow, Gold tree, Kumquat, Chrysanthemums and Lucky bamboo are also placed in their own homes as these plants are thought to symbolise good luck, prosperity and health. It is also a tradition in Singapore for everyone to stand and toss Yu Sheng during lunch or dinner gatherings.
What's Yu Sheng and how is it tossed? Yu Sheng is actually a raw fish salad and a true-blue Singaporean dish! It's definitely a must-try if you do join us here in Singapore during Chinese New Year. It is believed that if they proclaim their wishes loudly while tossing the salad, their wishes will come true. Finally, the best and most important thing about Chinese New Year is the exchanging of Red packets or Hong bao. It is usually handed to the younger generations by the older generation in the family, along with a few Chinese new year well wishes, for good luck in the new year.
And of course, not to be missed are the special and exciting celebrations that are held all around Singapore during this time of the year! These events will allow you to see Singapore in a way like never before:
Chinatown Street Light Up
When: 2-3 weeks leading to 3 Feb 2011, and 2-3 weeks after
Do not forget to bring your cameras and snap away as beautiful over-street fairy lights and big lanterns are lighted up. Expect firecrackers and fireworks too!
Chinese New Year shopping @ the Festive Night Market
When: 3 weeks leading to 3 February 2011; late afternoon till night.
Where: 100+ stalls along Pagoda Street, Temple Street, Smith Street, Sago Street and Trengganu Street.
Getting here: Take MRT to Chinatown Station. Take the Pagoda Street exit
It is good to snap up souvenirs and tidbits here as vendors give hefty discounts during this period of time. Thereafter, you can head for the Chinese New Year 2011 concert at the MRT station to join in on the festivities
Preparing for the Festive night market; picture taken from http://www.singapore-vacation-attractions.com/chinatown-tour.html
The River Hong Bao 2011 Carnival
When: 1-13 Feb 2011
Where: The Floating Platform @ Marina Bay.
Getting here: Take MRT to Esplanade or Promenade Stations and follow the directions to Esplanade Theatres. Thereafter, just follow the crowds
Festive bazaars, cultural performances and fireworks. (Fireworks have yet to be confirmed.)
Watch enchanting acrobats and dancers perform on stage with their breathtaking costumes. After that, take a walk and appreciate the beautiful super-sized lanterns as they as they light up against the night sky
Chingay Parade 2011 - A Great Street Parade Must See!
Where: Singapore F1 Grand Prix Pit Building @ Marina Bay
When: Friday, 11 Feb 2011, 8.30pm
Saturday, 12 Feb 2011, 8pm
This is Asia's grandest street parade, which started off in the 1970s. You can watch Chingay 2011 for free along the parade route. But the best views are from the ticketed seats.
So what are you waiting for? If you're planning for a holiday in February, visit Singapore! Join us in this wonderful and welcoming Chinese New Year celebration that you will never forget by letting you experience Singapore in a totally unique way.
References:
http://www.tuvy.com/chinese/info/new_year.htm
http://www.holidays-in-singapore.com/chinese-new-year.html
