Thousands of visitors from around the globe flocked to Gardens by the Bay in Singapore for River Hongbao 2026, the Chinese New Year celebration, also celebrating its 40th anniversary on Sunday.
Footage shows visitors wandering through glowing giant lantern statues before fireworks light up the night sky, as on stage, vibrant traditional dances, including a lively Malay performance, excited the crowd.
Along the Pasar Malam food street, guests were seen sampling treats, engaging with interactive installations, and tossing coins at lantern displays for luck.
“Come and check out the Pasar Malam (night market), come and check out the performance on the stage and then just walk around at night and enjoy the breeze. It’s none else like it!” said visitor Yuping.
The festival’s multicultural performances featured Malay dance at a traditionally Chinese celebration, which is a rare sight.
“I really like the Malay performance because it was quite rare to see, like Malay performances at Chinese festivals. And I think the cross-culture we have in Singapore is really unique, and it is so nice to showcase it here,” Yuping added.
Visitor Ruta praised the vibrant atmosphere, noting the large turnout. She also took part in traditional activities.
“I just tried throwing the coin to one of these things that is there,” she said. “I think it was for good luck, for health and for happiness,” she continued.
Attendee Silva remarked that the fireworks were fantastic, marking the festival’s return after six years.
“I would say it is one of the best places to celebrate CNY with family and friends together,” Silva said.
The River Hongbao festival runs until 24th February, celebrating its 40th anniversary with a vibrant blend of tradition, spectacle, and multicultural festivities. It reinforces its status as one of Singapore’s most cherished Lunar New Year events.
The festival features 14 to 16 massive installations, including the ‘Galloping into the Year of the Horse’ lantern scroll and a towering 20-meter ‘God of Fortune’.
Nightly stage performances bring together the Gansu Provincial Opera House, Kowloon Club, and local artists such as Charlie Lim and Tosh Rock.
Visitors can experience the bustling Food Street at Supertree Grove, enjoy carnival rides, including Singapore’s only double-story horse carousel and visit a special 40th-anniversary exhibition tracing the festival’s journey since 1987.
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