SINGAPORE — The River Hongbao 2025 will begin with 60 strands of firecrackers on January 27 at 8 pm at Gardens by the Bay, marking the start of the event and honoring Singapore's 60 years of independence. The event, celebrating the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Snake beginning on January 29, will run from January 27 to February 5. Since its inception in 1987, River Hongbao has become one of Singapore's largest and longest-running Chinese New Year celebrations, attracting 1.01 million visitors in 2024.

Mr. Thomas Chua, chairman of the organizing committee and president of the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA), mentioned that the event focuses on preserving and promoting Chinese culture and tradition while also bringing festive joy. As 2025 also marks Singapore's SG60 celebration, the event will reflect the nation’s achievements and aspirations.

In addition to the 60 strands of firecrackers on the opening night, there will be 30 strands each on January 28 and 29. The event will feature two large SG60-themed lantern displays among the 28 lantern sets on display. One display, "The Lion City," symbolizes Singapore’s 60 years of peace and prosperity, with a replica of the Merdeka lion and a stylized skyline symbolizing the nation's growth and unity. Another display, "Joyful Years Ahead," evokes nostalgia with elements like the lion head roller coaster from the former Wonderland Amusement Park and a steamboat pot, reflecting the tradition of reunion dinners during Chinese New Year.

Other highlights include the popular God of Fortune lantern display, a food street, amusement park rides, and both on-site and online games. Performances will feature local talents and the Wind From Yunnan troupe from China. An exhibition titled Greetings From Afar: Chinese Remittance Letters will explore the emotional and historical significance of letters sent by early Chinese migrants, while the Life Art Society will showcase CNY greetings, calligraphy, and traditional Chinese paintings.

The event will take place from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on January 27, from 6:30 pm to 12:15 am on January 28, and from January 29 to February 5, from 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Admission is free. Complementing the River Hongbao festivities, a floral display at the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay will feature a 4.5-meter-tall floral representation of Madam White Snake from the classic Chinese folk tale Legend of the White Snake, along with over 1,000 dahlias symbolizing prosperity and new beginnings.

River Hongbao 2025 is organized by the SFCCA, Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SPH Media's Chinese Media Group, Singapore Tourism Board, and People's Association.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from River Hongbao 2025 Organising Committee