Planning your trip around Singapore’s public holidays can transform a great vacation into an unforgettable one. These festive dates offer a unique opportunity to see the city at its most vibrant, with special events, beautiful decorations, and a palpable sense of celebration in the air. This guide covers the official holiday dates and, more importantly, what travelers can expect during the major celebrations.
Knowing the holiday schedule is a key part of our complete guide to visiting Singapore, as it can affect everything from crowds to opening hours. A little bit of planning will help you decide whether to join in the festivities or find quieter alternatives.
Singapore Public Holidays 2025
Here is a clear and simple list of the official public holidays in Singapore for 2025. This is the core information that will help you plan your travel dates.
- New Year’s Day: 1 January
- Chinese New Year: 29 & 30 January
- Good Friday: 18 April
- Labour Day: 1 May
- Vesak Day: 12 May
- Hari Raya Puasa: 30 March
- Hari Raya Haji: 6 June
- National Day: 9 August
- Deepavali: 20 October
- Christmas Day: 25 December
A useful tip for travelers is to note that if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is typically a day off. This creates a long weekend, which is often a peak travel period.
What to Expect During Major Holidays
Beyond just a day off, Singapore’s main holidays are rich cultural experiences. Here is what you can expect during the most significant celebrations.
Chinese New Year (January/February)
Chinese New Year is the most important festival in the Chinese cultural calendar, and Singapore celebrates it with incredible energy. The Chinatown district becomes the epicentre of the festivities, with streets adorned with thousands of beautiful lanterns and vibrant decorations. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the sounds of lion dances and bustling street bazaars.
This is a great time to explore the area and soak in the festive mood. You can learn more about its unique character in our guide to Singapore’s neighborhoods. Be aware that many smaller, family-run shops and eateries may close for a day or two for family reunion dinners, so it is wise to plan your dining options in advance.
National Day (August 9)
National Day is a massive, patriotic celebration of Singapore’s independence. The entire city is draped in the national colours of red and white, with flags flying from buildings and homes. The day culminates in the spectacular National Day Parade, which includes military processions, multicultural performances, and a thrilling aerial display by the air force.
The grand finale is a magnificent fireworks display over Marina Bay. This is a fantastic time to find free shows and performances in Sentosa, as the island often has its own celebrations and can offer unique vantage points for the city’s fireworks. For locals and visitors alike, it is a day of immense pride and unity.
Deepavali and Hari Raya Puasa
These two holidays are a beautiful showcase of Singapore’s multicultural fabric. Deepavali, the Hindu “Festival of Lights,” sees the Little India neighborhood transform into a dazzling wonderland. The streets are adorned with colourful arches and brilliant lights, and the air is filled with the scent of incense and spices from the festival bazaars.
Similarly, Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and is celebrated with incredible warmth. The Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam areas come alive with decorative lights and sprawling bazaars selling traditional foods, clothes, and crafts. For a tourist, these festivals are a fantastic opportunity to witness living culture and enjoy delicious, festive foods.
Practical Tips for Holiday Travel
Traveling during a public holiday can be incredibly rewarding, but it pays to be prepared for the change in pace.
First, if your trip coincides with a major holiday, especially a long weekend, it is essential to book your flights and accommodation far in advance. Prices can surge due to high demand from both international and local travelers.
Second, be prepared for larger crowds. Major attractions, shopping malls, and public transport will be much busier than usual. A good strategy is to visit popular spots early in the morning to beat the peak crowds.
The dates for public holidays are officially gazetted each year, and you can find the definitive government list on the Ministry of Manpower website. It is always a good idea to confirm these dates before you lock in your travel plans.
Finally, always double-check the opening hours of any museums, attractions, or restaurants you plan to visit. While most major establishments remain open, some may operate on reduced hours during a public holiday. A quick online check can save you from a wasted trip.
Embrace the Celebration
With a bit of forward planning, visiting Singapore during a public holiday is not an inconvenience. It is an opportunity. It is a chance to see the city’s diverse cultures come to life and to participate in celebrations that are unique to this part of the world. By embracing the festive spirit, you can add a rich and memorable layer to your Singaporean adventure.
