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Visitors travelling to Singapore in September and October will be able to
immerse themselves in the traditions, history and vibrancy of three meaningful
cultural celebrations – the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, the Indian
celebration of Deepavali, and the Malay festivities related to
Hari Raya Puasa.
“One of Singapore’s key attributes is that it is made up of a rich tapestry
of cultures where Chinese, Indian and Malay communities live peacefully, side by
side,” said Mr Kevin Leong, Regional Director Oceania, Singapore Tourism Board.
“Visitors travelling in September and October will feel like they are
visiting three cities in one, as each of our key cultural enclaves come alive
with celebrations linked to their own unique faith, traditions and beliefs,”
added Mr Leong.
Deepavali Light-Up will take place from 21 September until 29 October
and is the most important festival in the Hindu calender. Known as the ‘Festival
of Lights’, it marks the defeat of the evil King Narakasura by Lord Krishna, and
proclaims the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness.
While oil lamps burn at home, Little India will be transformed into a
heavenly wonderland with thousands of fairy lights fashioned into arches and
gateways along Serangoon Road, decorative temple offerings being created as
gifts for the gods, and tempting food stalls lining the streets.
The evening markets will be booming with music as shoppers search for the
perfect sari to wear, or fill their baskets with Indian foods, spices and flower
garlands.
Highlights throughout the festive period include the Navarathiri Festival (23
Sep-1 Oct) (meaning nine nights) which honours the Mother Goddess, and the
Thimidhi or Fire Walking festival (9 October), honouring the Goddess Draupadi.
According to the Indian epic poem Mahabharata, she proved her innocence by
walking barefoot on burning coals unscathed. Devotees likewise brave the burning
coals to prove their faith.
Hari Raya Light-Up & Celebrations will take place from 22 September
through to 31 October. The festival marks the end of the fasting month of
Ramadan for Singapore’s Malay and Muslim community. 2006 will be the first year
that celebrations will also take place in the restored and historically rich
Kampong Glam (Kandahar Street) area in addition to the usual Geylang Serai
district. Both areas will come alive with dazzling light displays and festive
bazaars selling everything from traditional handicrafts, clothing and food – all
to the hypnotic beat of traditional Malay music.
Don’t miss the line up of popular regional artists including Singapore Idol
2006 finalists who will entertain the crowds during the festivities.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar
month among Chinese communities worldwide. Also known as the ‘mooncake
festival,’ legend states it initially began as a celebration of a bountiful
harvest in ancient China with many myths evolving throughout the years. Today
the event celebrates and emphasises the value of family unity.
Join in the festivities between 23 September and 15 October and be mesmerised
by the stunning lantern displays lighting up the night sky through Chinatown and
along Singapore River. A vibrant street market will add to the festive
atmosphere, selling an array of traditional goodies including mooncakes,
pomelos, melon seeds, yams – and of course lanterns!
The Festival Street Market will take place from 23 September until 6 October
and will be supported by nightly entertainment at Kreta Ayer Square, with a
lantern walk to take place on 6 October. |
Novotel
Clarke Quay Singapore
