Chinese New Year fireworks light Marina Bay on February 6, 2027 – reserve hotels early.
Singapore’s 2027 public holidays reflect its four-community calendar, with 11 official days from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian traditions. The Chinese New Year on February 6 triggers citywide closures and crowds, requiring advance bookings. Holidays like Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali also close many businesses, reshaping transport and dining options. This efficient multicultural calendar means travelers face closures nearly every month, so plan accommodations and activities carefully to avoid disruptions.
Quick answer
Key 2027 holidays: Chinese New Year (Feb 6, avoid crowds), Hari Raya Puasa (Feb 27, limited hours), Vesak Day (May 1, quiet), Deepavali (Oct 19, closures).
Key takeaways
- Book hotels in Marina Bay before Feb 6 for Chinese New Year fireworks.
- Avoid public transport rush on Feb 27 during Hari Raya Puasa.
- Plan around May 1 Vesak Day when many temples close.
- Expect Deepavali closures on Oct 19; restaurants may reduce hours.
- Reserve flights early for late January – early February due to holiday travel spikes.
- Check business hours in Little India during Deepavali for local events.
- Use ride-hailing apps early on public holidays to avoid surge pricing.
- Confirm opening hours for museums and attractions during major holidays.
Festival Map – Singapore
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Public Holiday Calendar Singapore 2027
| Date | Holiday | Type | Observance | Traveler impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027-01-01 | New Year’s Day | national | closed | avoid |
| 2027-02-06 | Chinese New Year (春節) | cultural lunar new year | closed | avoid |
| 2027-02-27 | Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr) (hari raya puasa) | religious islamic | limited hours | avoid |
| 2027-05-01 | Vesak Day (佛誕) | religious buddhist | limited hours | neutral |
| 2027-08-09 | National Day | national | closed | avoid |
| 2027-10-19 | Deepavali (தீபாவளி) | religious hindu | closed | avoid |
| 2027-12-25 | Christmas Day | religious christian | closed | avoid |
Why Public Holidays Shape Your Singapore Trip
Singapore’s public holidays reflect its multicultural calendar, creating distinct travel impacts. Planning around these dates avoids closed businesses and overcrowded transport.
- Chinese New Year (February 6, 2027) shuts down most shops and public offices for at least two days, causing transport surges and hotel price spikes; book at least 6 weeks ahead.
- Hari Raya Puasa (February 27, 2027) triggers limited business hours and restaurant closures in Malay neighborhoods, requiring early meal planning and transport adjustments.
- Deepavali (October 19, 2027) closes many Hindu temples and some businesses, especially in Little India, impacting sightseeing and dining options around the festival date.
- Christmas Day (December 25, 2027) causes widespread closures in retail and government offices, while hotels and restaurants in tourist areas surge in price and booking demand.
- National Day (August 9, 2027) closes government offices and many businesses, with citywide events crowding central areas and public transport starting early and running late.
- Vesak Day (May 1, 2027) limits alcohol sales nationwide and reduces opening hours in some shops; plan dinners before the day and expect quieter transport in the evening.
Lunar New Year Cluster
Chinese New Year celebrations peak with family gatherings, temple visits, and street events, mainly in Chinatown and surrounding districts.
For travelers: Hotels fill early and prices rise sharply; book 6+ weeks in advance. Public transport is crowded, and many shops close February 6 – 7. Restaurants open late on February 5 but close early on the holiday.
Hari Raya Puasa Period
Malay community marks the end of Ramadan with festive prayers and open houses, especially in Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam areas.
For travelers: Expect limited business hours and some closures on February 27. Book accommodations early if staying near Malay districts. Plan meals ahead as many restaurants close or operate reduced hours.
Deepavali Festival Day
Hindu temples and Little India host lighting ceremonies and cultural events, drawing local crowds throughout the day.
For travelers: Most businesses close on October 19, especially in Little India. Book transport in advance as taxis and rideshares surge. Restaurants open before and after the holiday but close on the day itself.
Christmas and Year-End Cluster
Christmas Day closures combine with year-end festivities, especially in Orchard Road and Marina Bay areas, creating crowded shopping and dining scenes on December 24 and 26.
For travelers: Book hotels and restaurants at least 4 weeks ahead. Expect many shops and government offices closed on December 25. Public transport runs extended hours but is crowded in tourist districts.
Major Holidays in Singapore – Deep Dive
Chinese New Year
2027-02-06
Avoid
The streets flood with red lanterns, lion dance troupes, and crowds shopping for festive goods in Chinatown. Traditional family reunions and temple visits dominate the day, with incense smoke thick near Sri Mariamman Temple. Many restaurants close early or open late on the eve, and dress codes lean toward red and festive attire. Expect loud firecracker displays and cultural performances that mark the lunar new year. For planning, book accommodations at least six weeks ahead and expect public transport to be crowded and some shops closed on the holiday itself.
| Best place to be | Chinatown is the heart of the action, with street markets, temple ceremonies, and lion dances that you won’t find anywhere else. The central plaza and Smith Street host most of the celebrations, including the iconic Chinatown Street Light-up. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid the central MRT stations during peak hours on the holiday; crowds can become overwhelming and slow movement. |
| Transport | Public transit runs at full capacity with heavy crowding, and taxis become scarce and surge-priced. Roads near Chinatown close for processions. |
| Accommodation | Hotels fill quickly with prices rising sharply; book at least six weeks in advance to secure a room near celebration hubs. |
Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr)
2027-02-27
Avoid
Malay neighborhoods fill with festive prayers and open houses, especially in Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam, where you’ll see traditional dress and hear takbirs (chants). The mood is celebratory but many businesses operate on limited hours or close, affecting food and shopping options. Temples and mosques require modest dress and respectful behavior. This holiday marks Ramadan’s end, so if you plan to eat out, arrange meals around limited restaurant hours. Plan transport and accommodation early if staying near Malay districts.
| Best place to be | Geylang Serai hosts the largest Hari Raya Bazaar, with food stalls and cultural performances that bring the neighborhood alive in a way no other area does during this time. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid tourist-heavy areas expecting regular hours; many shops and eateries outside Malay districts close or reduce hours, limiting options. |
| Transport | Taxis and rideshares surge in Malay districts; public transit runs but expect some delays near mosques during prayer times. |
| Accommodation | Book accommodations near Geylang Serai early; prices rise modestly and availability tightens around the holiday. |
Vesak Day
2027-05-01
Neutral
Buddhist temples across Singapore host solemn ceremonies with candlelight vigils and chanting, especially at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery. Streets feel quieter with some shops and offices closing or running reduced hours. The day emphasizes reflection and respect; temple visitors must wear modest clothing and remove shoes. Public events are low-key but meaningful. This holiday does not heavily disrupt transport or dining, making it easier to navigate than other major holidays.
| Best place to be | Visit Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery for the largest Vesak Day ceremonies and candlelight processions, a serene experience unlike any other in Singapore. |
| Transport | Public transit operates normally with slight crowding near major temples during early morning and evening ceremonies. |
| Accommodation | No significant impact on hotel availability or pricing. |
National Day
2027-08-09
Avoid
Singaporeans flood Marina Bay for the National Day Parade, with military displays, fireworks, and patriotic performances dominating the evening. Streets around the bay close early for setup and crowd control. Expect loud music and heavy foot traffic starting late afternoon. Dress code is casual but many wear red and white to show national pride. Many government offices and businesses close, affecting service availability. For travelers, join the parade atmosphere early or avoid the area if you prefer calm evenings.
| Best place to be | Marina Bay offers the full parade experience with prime viewing of fireworks and performances. The Esplanade and Merlion Park areas are also festive hubs with large crowds. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid the downtown core and Marina Bay MRT stations after 4:00 PM due to road closures and severe congestion. |
| Transport | Road closures and heavy pedestrian traffic limit taxi availability; public transit stays open but is packed from late afternoon into the night. |
| Accommodation | Hotels near Marina Bay see price spikes and require early booking; rooms fill fast around August 9. |
Deepavali
2027-10-19
Avoid
Little India transforms with colorful lights, street decorations, and temple ceremonies centered on Hindu traditions. The day is busy with families visiting temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman and enjoying festive treats. Dress modestly and expect crowds at cultural events and markets. Most businesses in Little India close on the holiday, so plan meals and shopping before or after October 19. Taxi demand spikes, and rideshare prices surge as locals and visitors move between homes and temples.
| Best place to be | Little India delivers the full Deepavali atmosphere, with its vibrant street lighting and temple rituals offering a culturally dense experience unmatched elsewhere in Singapore. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid commercial areas outside Little India expecting normal business hours; many close completely, limiting options. |
| Transport | Expect heavy taxi and rideshare demand in Little India; public transit runs but gets crowded, especially near the Tekka Centre and Serangoon Road. |
| Accommodation | Book hotels near Little India early; prices rise slightly and availability tightens on Deepavali day. |
Christmas Day
2027-12-25
Avoid
Orchard Road and Marina Bay become crowded with festive shoppers and decorative displays, but many shops and government offices close on Christmas Day itself. Restaurants in tourist hotspots limit hours or close, so plan dining ahead. Public transport runs extended hours but expect heavy crowds in shopping districts. Dress is casual but festive, and expect a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the holiday atmosphere. For travelers, the day is more about navigating closures and crowds than cultural ceremonies.
| Best place to be | Marina Bay offers a festive backdrop with its light displays and public events, while Orchard Road delivers the Christmas shopping buzz despite holiday closures. |
| Where to avoid | Avoid government office areas and some malls closed on December 25; also skip dining out last-minute in Orchard Road due to early closures. |
| Transport | Public transit extends hours but is very crowded around major shopping districts; taxis surge and become scarce in the evening. |
| Accommodation | Hotels near Orchard Road and Marina Bay require booking at least four weeks in advance, with prices peaking during Christmas week. |
Singapore Public Holidays 2027: Month-by-Month Travel Impact
Singapore’s efficient multicultural calendar spaces major holidays across the year, creating frequent but manageable travel disruptions. Each month’s logistics shift around closures and crowd surges tied to the four main communities’ celebrations.
Moderate
Closures: Most government offices, banks, and many shops close on New Year’s Day.
January opens with New Year’s Day closures that affect public services and many businesses. Expect limited operations on January 1, which can disrupt airport transfers and public transport schedules. Booking early for this period avoids last-minute price hikes. If arriving just after New Year’s Day, standard travel conditions resume quickly.
Peak season
Closures: Chinese New Year causes widespread closures; Hari Raya Puasa sees limited business hours, especially near February 27.
February demands early booking because Chinese New Year on February 6 shuts down many shops, restaurants, and public offices, especially in Chinatown and central shopping districts. Transport grids tighten as locals travel for family reunions. Hari Raya Puasa on February 27 limits hours in Malay-majority neighborhoods, reducing service availability. Plan ground transfers around these dates and confirm restaurant hours in advance.
Low season
March presents no major public holidays, keeping travel logistics smooth and predictable. Booking flexibility is highest, and public transport runs on normal schedules. This month suits travelers prioritizing steady access to all services without holiday disruptions.
Low season
April sees no public holidays, so expect standard hours across all sectors. This steady month means no holiday-driven crowd surges or closures. Use this window for flexible arrival and departure plans, especially if avoiding holiday price spikes is a priority.
Moderate
Closures: Some religious sites and services operate on limited hours for Vesak Day.
Vesak Day on May 1 causes limited hours at Buddhist temples and some public services, but most retail and transport remain operational. This holiday has minimal impact on overall logistics, offering a moderate crowd level without major closures. Confirm opening hours for temple visits and plan accordingly.
Low season
June features no public holidays, resulting in steady travel conditions and normal service availability. This month is ideal for travelers seeking smooth, disruption-free access to all parts of the city without holiday crowds.
Low season
July remains free of public holidays, so expect consistent business and transport operations. This low-demand month provides maximum flexibility for last-minute bookings and effortless city navigation.
High season
Closures: National Day on August 9 leads to full closures of government offices, banks, and many shops.
National Day on August 9 creates a citywide holiday closure that disrupts government and many private services. Expect crowds around parade viewing areas and transport hubs due to public celebrations. Book accommodations and transport early to avoid premium pricing and limited availability during this patriotic holiday.
Low season
September offers calm travel logistics with no public holidays affecting service availability. This month suits travelers who want to avoid holiday-related crowding and closures, benefiting from steady access to all city amenities.
High season
Closures: Deepavali on October 19 results in widespread business and government closures, especially in Little India.
October features Deepavali on the 19th, when many shops, banks, and offices close, especially in Little India. Expect transport disruptions and crowded markets leading up to the holiday. Avoid last-minute bookings and plan visits around this date to maintain smooth travel access.
Low season
November has no public holidays, keeping travel logistics simple and predictable. This month is ideal for flexible itineraries with no holiday-related closures or crowd surges to manage.
Peak season
Closures: Christmas Day closures affect most government offices, banks, and many restaurants.
December peaks with Christmas Day closures that shutter many services, including banks and government offices. Hotels and restaurants surge in bookings weeks before, especially around Orchard Road and Marina Bay. Book accommodations and dining well in advance to avoid sold-out situations and premium pricing.
Singapore’s Festival Anchor Cities
Singapore’s multicultural calendar centers around distinct neighborhoods where major festivals unfold with unique local flavor. Each anchor city offers a focused experience tied to its community’s heritage and celebration style.
Chinatown
Chinese New Year · 2027-02-06
Little India
Deepavali · 2027-10-19
Geylang Serai
Hari Raya Puasa · 2027-02-27
Marina Bay
National Day · 2027-08-09
Holiday Etiquette for Singapore’s Public Celebrations
Navigating Singapore’s major holidays requires respect for cultural norms and practical awareness of closures and crowd behavior. Follow these do’s and don’ts to blend in smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Do
- Wear red or festive attire to honor tradition and blend with locals
- Arrive early at Chinatown to secure spots for lion dances and temple visits
- Book accommodations at least six weeks ahead to avoid sold-out hotels
- Use public transit outside peak hours to avoid overcrowding near MRT stations
Don’t
- Do not bring large bags or backpacks into crowded street markets
- Avoid photographing firecracker displays from unsafe distances
- Do not expect normal business hours; many shops close or open late
- Avoid central MRT stations during peak times to prevent delays
Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr) Observance
Do
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques or Malay neighborhoods like Geylang Serai
- Plan meals around reduced restaurant hours during the holiday
- Book hotels near Malay districts early to secure availability
- Use rideshares cautiously as surge pricing spikes near prayer times
Don’t
- Do not eat or drink in public during daylight hours in Ramadan if present before the holiday
- Avoid loud or disruptive behavior near mosques during prayers
- Do not assume all shops and eateries outside Malay areas remain open
- Avoid tourist-heavy areas expecting normal service during the holiday
Deepavali Festivities
Do
- Wear modest clothing when visiting temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman
- Visit Little India early to avoid peak crowds and secure parking
- Book accommodations near Little India well in advance
- Use public transit to Tekka Centre and Serangoon Road for easier access
Don’t
- Do not photograph worshippers inside temples without permission
- Avoid expecting normal business hours outside Little India on Deepavali day
- Do not ignore heavy taxi and rideshare demand; pre-book rides
- Avoid commercial districts outside Little India for meals or shopping
National Day Parade Etiquette
Do
- Arrive early at Marina Bay for prime parade viewing spots
- Wear casual clothes with red and white to show national pride
- Use public transit before 4:00 PM to avoid road closures and congestion
- Prepare for loud music and large crowds from late afternoon into the night
Don’t
- Do not drive into downtown core or Marina Bay after 4:00 PM
- Avoid last-minute taxi hails near parade routes due to scarcity
- Do not bring large bags or prohibited items to parade zones
- Avoid the Esplanade and Merlion Park areas if preferring quiet evenings
Christmas Day Public Behavior
Do
- Plan meals ahead as many restaurants close early or remain shut
- Visit Marina Bay or Orchard Road early to enjoy festive light displays
- Book hotels near shopping districts at least four weeks in advance
- Use public transit to avoid traffic and parking issues around major malls
Don’t
- Do not expect government offices or some malls to be open on December 25
- Avoid last-minute dining in Orchard Road due to early closures
- Do not rely on taxis in the evening; surge pricing and scarcity are common
- Avoid government office areas for errands or services on Christmas Day
Festivals Worth Planning Around in Singapore
Singapore’s multicultural calendar means nearly every month hosts a major festival that transforms neighborhoods with distinctive celebrations. These events offer concentrated cultural immersion and photo-worthy moments if you plan where and when to be.
Find tours for these festivals
Book guided experiences around Singapore’s biggest celebrations.
Holidays to Avoid for Smooth Travel and Access
Several Singapore public holidays create major disruptions in transport, dining, and shopping. Avoid these dates or plan well in advance to prevent costly delays and limited service availability.
Chinese New Year
Chinatown and central MRT stations experience extreme crowding; roads close for processions and taxis surge in price and scarcity.
Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr)
Malay districts see limited business hours and many closures; taxis surge and public transit delays occur near mosques during prayer times.
National Day
Marina Bay and downtown core close early for parade setup; severe congestion and limited taxi availability last into the night.
Deepavali
Little India has heavy taxi and rideshare demand; many businesses outside the neighborhood close completely.
Christmas Day
Many shops and government offices close; restaurants in tourist areas limit hours or close; heavy crowds clog public transit and taxis surge.
Practical Info
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Money | Expect ATM and bank closures on major holidays like Chinese New Year and Deepavali; carry cash especially during Hari Raya Puasa when card terminals may be limited. Surcharges on taxis and rideshares spike on festival days. |
| Transport | Book airport transfers and rideshares at least two weeks ahead for Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Puasa. Public transit runs extended hours on National Day but expect heavy crowding and road closures near Marina Bay. |
| Alcohol | Alcohol sales are restricted during Hari Raya Puasa in Malay districts and on Vesak Day nationwide. National Day and Christmas have no specific alcohol restrictions but expect busy venues. |
| Booking | Reserve accommodations at least six weeks ahead for Chinese New Year and National Day; four weeks lead time works for Deepavali and Christmas. Peak holiday stays often require minimum two-night bookings near celebration hubs. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Singapore Public Holidays
1How far ahead should I book accommodations for Chinese New Year in Singapore?
Book at least six weeks in advance for Chinese New Year (February 6, 2027). Hotels near Chinatown fill quickly and prices spike sharply due to demand.
2What closes during Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore?
On February 27, 2027, many supermarkets, government offices, and restaurants in Malay neighborhoods like Geylang Serai close or operate on limited hours. Businesses outside Malay districts may also reduce hours.
3Are taxis and rideshares reliable during Deepavali in Singapore?
Taxi and rideshare demand surges significantly in Little India on October 19, 2027. Expect higher prices and scarcity, especially near Tekka Centre and Serangoon Road.
4Is public transport affected during National Day celebrations?
Yes. On August 9, 2027, public transit remains open but is extremely crowded from late afternoon into the night around Marina Bay. Road closures limit taxi access downtown after 4:00 PM.
5Can tourists participate in Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore?
Tourists can join street markets and lion dance performances mainly in Chinatown on February 6, 2027. However, expect heavy crowds and some shops closed; plan to arrive early and avoid peak MRT stations.
6Are there alcohol restrictions during Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore?
Alcohol sales and consumption are restricted in Malay districts during Hari Raya Puasa on February 27, 2027. Outside these areas, alcohol is available but venues may operate reduced hours.
7What should I wear when visiting temples during Vesak Day in Singapore?
Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees when visiting temples like Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery on May 1, 2027. Remove shoes before entering and avoid bright or flashy attire.
8Is Christmas a good time to visit Singapore for shopping?
Christmas Day (December 25, 2027) sees many malls and government offices closed, with restaurants limiting hours. Shopping buzz peaks before the holiday; plan purchases early to avoid closures and crowds.