A new year, new beginnings and a guide to the best Chinese new year celebrations in Singapore. This is the biggest and most significant event of the Chinese community, and it is observed by Singaporeans from all walks of life. To usher in the year of the dragon, Chinatown will be decked with bright auspicious decorations, and there will be an array of exciting performances and activities to look forward to.

The celebrations kick off with the Chinese New Year Celebrations 2012 Street Light-Up that turns the main streets of Chinatown into a dazzling dreamscape of colourful dragon-themed decorations. From 21 to 29 January 2012, the River Hongbao 2012 transforms The Float at Marina Bay into a captivating spectacle of lights. Expect a loud and thrilling experience as firecrackers are set off to mark the start of Chinese New Year.

What’s more, this is the only time of the year when you can see firecrackers being set off. If you didn’t already know, Chinese New Year is also referred to as the Spring Festival. To celebrate springtime, Sentosa Flowers 2012 takes place from 22 to 29 January 2012. Chinese New Year is also the best time to immerse yourself in theatre, dance and music performances, plus a host of free programmes at Huayi Festival 2012, a Chinese arts festival at the Esplanade. And if you happen to catch the tail end of the festivities, don’t miss Chingay Parade 2012 on 3 February 2012, which promises a dramatic experience with a gripping all-dragons show.

Look out for the international lion dance competition as this is your chance to watch fiery-spirited professionals performing this traditional Chinese dance, right in the heart of Chinatown.

While you take part in the festivities, greet everyone you meet with a joyful “gong xi fa cai” and they’ll return an abundance of goodwill for the coming year.

As you explore Chinatown enjoy the celebration of the Chinese New Year in the uniquely Singapore way.