List of 14 public holidays in Singapore for 2026, including New Year's Day, Chinese New Year, Chinese New Year (Day 2) and more.
Singapore is a vibrant multicultural melting pot where Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western traditions collide, creating a year-round calendar of diverse festivals like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Deepavali.
During major holidays like Chinese New Year, many smaller shops and local eateries close for several days, though major malls and tourist attractions stay open. Public transport often extends operating hours on holiday eves, but expect heavy crowds in festive districts like Chinatown or Little India.
Avoid scheduling critical meetings during the first two days of Chinese New Year as most local businesses shut down. It is polite to exchange seasonal greetings or small gifts, and be mindful of fasting practices during Ramadan when hosting Muslim colleagues.
Visit in January or February to experience the high-energy Chinese New Year festivities. For those looking to avoid crowds and peak travel prices, the shoulder months of March to May offer pleasant weather with fewer major public holiday disruptions.
Common phrases include Gong Xi Fa Cai for Chinese New Year, Selamat Hari Raya for Hari Raya Puasa, and Happy Deepavali for the Festival of Lights.