Chingay Parade

The Chingay Parade is one of Asia’s largest night street parades, held annually in Singapore to celebrate Chinese New Year. Originally launched in 1973 as an alternative to firecrackers, it has evolved into a national event symbolizing multicultural harmony and festive spirit in Singapore.

Every Lunar New Year, the city comes alive with the Chingay Parade—an explosion of color, sound, and energy. The F1 Pit Building and Marina Bay area are transformed by thousands of performers, spectacular floats, and the excitement of crowds, embodying the very heart of multicultural Singapore. Families, locals, and travelers all dance and celebrate together, making Chingay a night that truly expresses the spirit of Singapore.

From the first beat of the drums to the grand fireworks finale, every sense is awakened. Sequined costumes sparkle, the scent of incense and street food fills the air, samba and lion dance rhythms pulse, festival snacks delight the palate, and confetti rains down as the whole city dances in a wave of joy and unity.

Grand Parade & Floats

Multicultural Performances

Fireworks, Light Shows & Finale

Costumes & Decorations

Traditional Food & Drink

The origins of the Chingay Parade date back to 1972, when the Singapore government banned firecrackers during Chinese New Year for safety reasons. Firecrackers were a traditional way to ward off evil spirits and welcome the new year, so their absence threatened to dampen the festive mood. In response, the government and community groups sought a grand alternative celebration, leading to the first Chingay Parade on Singapore’s streets in 1973.

Initially, the parade featured Chinese floats, lion dances, and dragon dances, but as Singapore’s young nation grew, Chingay became a symbol of unity, gradually including Malay, Indian, Eurasian, and international performances. The parade expanded to major streets such as Orchard Road, City Hall, and Marina Bay, with modern elements like LED lights and projection mapping. Today, over 6,000 performers and 200,000 spectators participate annually.

“Chingay” means “the art of costume and masquerade” in Hokkien. Now, it is a living symbol of coexistence and creativity, bringing together multiple ethnicities, cultures, and generations. Chingay fosters national unity, community pride, and showcases Singapore’s uniqueness to the world. In recent years, digital streaming and virtual participation have been introduced, making Chingay a festival that evolves with the times.

As a tourist, I was overwhelmed by the scale and color. A local family explained the meaning behind the floats and costumes, and I felt like I became part of Singapore’s story.

• “Chingay” means “the art of costume and masquerade” in Hokkien.

The Chingay Parade is held every Lunar New Year at the F1 Pit Building and Marina Bay area. Secure your spot early and let yourself be swept up in the color, sound, and energy of Singapore’s most spectacular festival.