Singapore is preparing for its popular Fall Festival Season, as travellers from the region descend upon the island-nation to experience the magic of a special trio of upcoming festivals set to offer authentic cultural experiences.
From September to November, Singapore celebrates three major ethnic festivals – Hari Raya, Mid-Autumn and Deepavali – when visitors from the Middle East can look forward to a traditional cultural offering through a host of activities specially designed for them.
The celebrations are a perfect showcase of Singapore’s multi-cultural heritage and a unique opportunity for Arab families to discover the Lion City and experience its distinctive and diverse blend of cultures.
Singapore’s fall festival line-up has consistently appealed to travellers from the region, many of whom head over during Ramadan and Eid to take part in a range of Muslim-friendly activities offered throughout the season.
The Hari Raya Festival, one of the most significant celebrations for Muslims in Singapore, has traditionally attracted a significant number of visitors from the region and kicks off September 8 with its famous light-up ceremony and draws to an end October 21.
The event is extremely popular in the South East Asian country, where over 15 percent of the population is Muslim. During this time, Kampong Glam and Geylang Serai will be adorned with multi-hued street lights, festive bazaars and food stalls offering traditional Malay food, handicrafts, clothes and accessories.
From 8 – 30 September, Chinatown, the traditional venue for the Mid-Autumn Festival, will feature stunningly-lit streets, bazaar stalls, Chinese folk arts and a Lion Dance competition. The celebration is a Chinese tradition where families gather for reunions at a time when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, enjoying mooncakes and pomeloes with a cup of fragrant tea.
Deepavali, or the Festival of Lights is the most important date in the Hindu calendar. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and many homes light up oil lamps to usher in light and good fortune. For this occasion, the streets of Little India will be lit up from 12 October to 18 November. Festive highlights include the Nine Nights Festival from 11-21 October, the Fire Walking Festival on 29 October, as well as a lively street parade on November 3.
“The fall festival season is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to soak in the Singaporean community’s colourful heritage and culture, which is an integral part of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage,” said Ke-Wei Peh, Area Director for the Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
