River Hongbao at Gardens by the Bay: A Celebration of Culture, Community and Light
Every Chinese New Year season, Singapore comes alive with festive cheer, and few events capture that spirit quite like River Hongbao. In 2026, the celebration returned to Gardens by the Bay, offering a lively mix of tradition, family activities, and night-time spectacle.
What Is River Hongbao?
River Hongbao is one of Singapore's signature Lunar New Year festivals. First launched in 1987 by the Singapore River, it has grown from a riverside celebration into a major annual event that blends heritage and modern creativity.
The name reflects its roots: "Hongbao" refers to the red packets associated with prosperity and luck, while "River" points to its original location.
2026 Edition at Gardens by the Bay
Since 2021, Gardens by the Bay has become the festival's home. In 2026, the event runs from 15 to 24 February 2026, with evening activities around Supertree Grove, The Meadow, Dragonfly Lake, and The Colonnade.
Admission is free, making it one of the most accessible large-scale festive experiences in Singapore.
Highlights to Expect
Lantern Displays
Handcrafted lanterns line key pathways, with zodiac themes and interactive displays designed for photos. The 2026 edition marks a milestone year with anniversary-focused installations and history exhibits.
Fireworks at The Meadow
Fireworks remain one of the most anticipated parts of the festival, with choreographed bursts lighting up the skyline and drawing large evening crowds.
Performances and Stage Shows
Visitors can catch lion dance performances, cultural showcases, live music, and dance throughout the festival period.
Carnival and Family Activities
The grounds are family-friendly, with carnival rides, games, and interactive attractions for younger visitors.
Food Street
Food stalls offer local favourites and festive snacks, and most booths support card and mobile payments.
Why River Hongbao Matters
Beyond entertainment, River Hongbao reflects Singapore's multicultural character, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate new beginnings. Its evolution from a riverside gathering into a landmark event mirrors Singapore's own growth over the decades.
Make It a Full Singapore Walking Day
If you are planning your River Hongbao visit, pair it with one of our free walking tours in Singapore to explore local neighbourhoods, nature spots, and stories beyond the city centre.
A good option for southern Singapore explorers is our Mount Faber and Sentosa Getaway, especially if you enjoy scenic viewpoints and coastal routes.
You can also read our SAFRA Bayfront event guide for another example of major crowd events in Singapore and how to plan around them.
For private walk requests or custom group plans, reach out via our contact page.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are visiting for the lanterns, fireworks, food, or festive atmosphere, River Hongbao offers one of the most memorable Lunar New Year experiences in Singapore.
Have you been to River Hongbao before? Tell us your favourite part, and if you are new to Singapore, check out our about page to learn how we design walking experiences around authentic local stories.