The Chinese community makes up the majority of Singaporean citizens. Every year, Singaporeans celebrate various big days in Chinese in accordance with the Chinese lunar calendar.
One of the upcoming big days in Chinese culture is the Dragon Boat Festival. Just like the previous years, the festival will be held on the fifth day of the fifth month in the Chinese lunar calendar.
If you’re looking for the right time to visit Singapore, the day when the Dragon Boat Festival is held may be the right moment in the nearest time frame. Let’s get informed about the festival!
What Is the Dragon Boat Festival?
The Dragon Boat Festival is referred to as Duan Wu Jie or Duan Yang in Chinese, which means the double fifth or upright sun.
Chinese commonly refer to the festival as the Fifth Month Festival. The festival originated in Southern China.
During this festival, people can enjoy many festivities, including the main one, boat racing. Culinary enthusiasts may also find their fixation on the Dragon Boat Festival’s food, rice dumplings.
As one of the popular Chinese festivals, the Dragon Boat Festival evolves from the worshipping of the river dragon to the honoring of Qu Yuan.
The Dragon Boat Festival was originally an ancient worship of the river dragon during the summer solstice.
In the second century, the festival was closely associated with Qu Yuan and his patriotism. Qu Yuan was a councilor and patriotic minister who protested the corrupt government by throwing himself into the Miluo River.
Local fishermen tried to save him by racing their boats, beating their paddles, and beating drums to scare evil spirits and fish. This event inspired the Dragon Boat Festival.
When Is the Dragon Boat Festival 2025 Celebrated?
Singaporeans determine the Dragon Boat Festival day according to the Chinese lunar calendar. As one of the famous events in Singapore, the Dragon Boat Festival attracts many visitors every year.
The Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore will be held on Saturday, May 31st, 2025. Previously, the festival took place on June 10th, 2024, and June 22nd, 2023.
The celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore showcases the uniqueness of the blend of traditional Chinese customs and local culture.
In this case, the boat racing isn’t a mere competition. It symbolizes unity, power, and the communal spirit.
Aside from the boat racing, visitors can try different experiences, like cultural performances and boat paddling exhibitions.
Ultimately, teams that compete in the dragon boat competition signify the importance of teamwork. Commonly, a team consists of 20 paddlers, a helmsman, and a drummer.
While history records the Dragon Boat Festival as early as 770 BCE, the race was first set up in Singapore in 1978 with 25 local teams competing.
Read also: 30 Hidden Gems You Never Knew Existed In Singapore
Recommended Places to Visit During the Dragon Boat Festival
During the Dragon Boat Festival, locals and foreign visitors may take in the festive atmosphere from every corner. Here are some recommended places you can visit during the festival:
1. Bedok Reservoir
Catch the sight of the dragon boat racing from Bedok Reservoir, located in the eastern part of Singapore. Since 2004, Bedok Reservoir has been open for water activities.
During the Dragon Boat Festival, visitors can witness the unique sight of boat racing by leisurely exploring intriguing things to do in Bedok.
2. Kallang Basin
Another place with a great view of the dragon boat race is Kallang Basin. Located on the southern coast of Singapore, this area has a spacious waterfront, which makes it a very fitting spot for boat race spectators.
While cheering on your favorite team, you can grab a few local treats from various food stalls nearby. Wait for the boats to speed past the vast water surface while leisurely savoring your chosen dish for the special festivity.
3. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall
Before attending the dragon boat racing, take your time to head to the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall and get more information about the Singapore’s Dragon Boat Festival.
This national monument is also the repository of Chinese culture. Here, you can learn more about the meaning of the Dragon Boat Festival and more Chinese festivals in Singapore.
4. Marina Bay
In the heart of the city, the dragon boat race can be seen from the iconic Singapore landmark, Marina Bay. With the city skyline backdrop, the race doesn’t only give the thrill but also picturesque shots.
To get the best view, you can come early and secure a strategic spot. Bring a picnic blanket and a couple of snacks to get the most comfortable experience.
5. Esplanade Waterfront
If you want to get close to the water during the dragon boat race, you can visit the Esplanade Waterfront. Aside from witnessing the competitive race, you can also explore the various cultural performances around the area.
Well, that’s all the information about the Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore that you need to know during a visit to Singapore.
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