As we all know, there are several lists of the 7 world wonders. Singapore will be your 8th world wonder. Despite being a small island on the globe, Singapore has much to offer. Right here, you can experience festivals and events that blend the best of the East and West, topped off with our own Singaporean style, so start exploring this garden city and be sure to fall in love with the amazing -
8th world wonder.

December 04, 2008

Chinese New Year at Chinatown

Chinatown has been the heart of Chinese festivities for decades, especially during the Chinese New Year. Each year without fail, my family and I would visit Chinatown to usher in the spring festival. The streets and the shop houses will be transformed with extensive decorations of the 12 zodiac animals of their specific years as well incandescent light-ups.



Chinatown Light-up
Source: singaporesights.com

Spring festival melodies like ‘Gong Xi Gong Xi’ were played while vendors raised their voice to promote their various products. Chinatown became alive when dusk approached; the human traffic became heavier as the bustling crowds swarmed in.



Visitors swarming into Chinatown
Source: singaporesights.com

When the hawkers of the festive food stalls began their operations, aromas of a myriad of delicacies filled the air. I was especially drawn by the fragrances of waxed duck and barbequed meat! It felt as if I was walking down memory lane when I found candies wrapped in multi-coloured cellophane paper. Chewing on these candies, I could see flashbacks of my childhood memories.



Candies galore
Source: ze|iica, flickr.com

I satiated my taste buds with hundreds of varieties of tantalizing delicacies offered. I feasted my eyes on the flora in Chinatown, as florists showcased their collections of fresh flowers and auspicious bonsai.



Auspicious bonsai
Source: flickr.com



Fresh flowers
Source: Singaporesights.com

Don’t be surprised to see different ethnic groups visiting Chinatown during this festive season! I bumped into my Malay classmate and I took the opportunity to ask her what she felt about the atmosphere. “Awesome!” She exclaimed. “After taking a tour around Chinatown, I’ve learnt more about the Chinese customs and traditions”. I’m sure that she enjoyed herself that night.

It has somehow become a tradition - where my family and I would to head down to Chinatown on New Year’s Eve to catch the live performances. Some of the highlights include Lion Dance, Chinese Dances as well as the highly anticipated firecrackers and firework displays. The countdown party on Chinese New Year’s Eve is not to be missed by avid party go-ers!






Chinese New Year Celebrations
Source: singaporesights.com



Firework
Source: muzikbug, flickr.com

Can't wait to experience this event with all its exciting activities? Well, the celebrations are still not over! Visitors can expect to see a huge slash of prices during the midnight sale. My family and I took the opportunity to do some last minute shopping before we bid goodbye to Chinatown and headed home with bags full of goodies to celebrate a wonderful spring festival.

For more information please visit this website.


Posted by Hui ying at 9:50 pm | 1 Comments

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River Ang Pao

Regal Golden Double-Dragon Gates
Source: SingaporeSights.com

Early 2008, my family and I were amazed by the Esplanade Park’s transformation into a floral-themed oriental paradise. As a teenager and never having enjoyed the idea of traditional Chinese celebrations with a large crowd in the sweltering heat, the River Ang Pao that year changed that perception. Words fail me as I attempt to describe the sights and sounds of the nation ushering in Chinese New Year together. I felt a tinge of pride as I experienced the Chinese culture in the unique Singaporean way.

Opening with a blast of an impressive fireworks showcase launched from the Esplanade Drive, I can guarantee almost anyone that the 12-day period by the waterfront will not disappoint. There was an activity for everyone in my family.

God of Fortune and Oriental Pavilions

Source: SingaporeSights.com

Mythical styled pavilions were definitely good spots for me and my family to take photos for keepsake. I was hoping for a chance to take photos with the mascots roaming around and to take part in this year’s highlight – the “counting the rats” competition, where I could stand a chance of winning $5000 if I counted the total number of rats “hiding” at the site accurately. The whole experience was definitely novel for me.

Merry land for the Little Ones

Giant Rat Displays

Source: SingaporeSights.com

My 5 year old sister was awe-struck by the massive sculptures modeled after Chinese folktale characters, such as ‘Cai Shen Ye’ (the God of Fortune) and the 12 zodiac animals. With her persistent badgering, my parents were kept busy throughout the night regaling her with Chinese folktales. All the children in sight were ecstatic when surrounded by the large variety of colorful amusement rides. You could say that at the end of the night, the little ones had to be dragged home with all these activities going on that kept them wanting more.

We also indulged in the nightly parades featuring the legendary God of Fortune and impressive displays by acrobatic troupes and I personally felt that it was almost akin to a Disneyland set in Singapore.

Housewives’ Paradise

Stall Selling Japanese Delights

Source: Her Highness/ Flickr.com

I would recommend going on an empty stomach so you would be able to hop from stall to stall to sample tantalizing delights as that was exactly what my mother did at the River Ang Pao. There were stalls selling Shark’s Fin Soup, Japanese Okonomiyaki (omelette) and even the famous Haw candies often spotted in period dramas. My mother, a food enthusiast, was especially excited when she found out that they would be open till 4 am on the eve of Chinese New year.



Nightly Performances

Source: SingaporeSights.com

Of course, we couldn’t give the nightly multi-cultural performances a miss. Ranging from Malay folkdances to Chinese Orchestra displays and even showcases by puppeteers, there was a bustling crowd already present to catch the highlights of the night as we made our way to the stage. I would definitely be arriving early next year to grab myself a good view of the stage.

Fun for the Gramps

My grandparents beamed with pride as they strolled through the cultural exhibitions brimming with rich Singaporean Chinese culture. Granny, who is a Cantonese, was pleased to judge her culinary skills against the chefs displaying cooking demonstrations from different dialect groups. Even my grandfather, who is usually serious, became visibly excited and engrossed by the variety of auspicious handicrafts available for sale. There were at least a 100 stalls lined up!

River Ang Pao 2008 was the event that brought celebrating Chinese New Year in Singapore to a whole new level for me; I am definitely going back again next year. Believe me - you have to experience it for yourself.


Posted by Samantha Low at 9:02 pm | 0 Comments

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The parade that touches your heart

One would think that perhaps with sources of information on the Chingay Parade of DreamS and my goggle box knowledge of the Parade, I would be able to complete a post featuring the Parade. Sadly, the television doesn’t get one very far with the true experience of Chingay.

Thus, I’ve went on a journey of finding views and perspectives of the Chingay Parade to bring to you, with my personal thoughts and reflections as a Singaporean Chinese, what the Chingay Parade is all about, how it is able to bring across aspects of Chinese culture (and other cultures in Singapore) and why you should be here in Singapore to experience it for yourselves.

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Collage: Chingay Singapore
Source: SingaporeSights.com, Official Chingay 2009 Website


Chingay Parade of DreamS is a themed annual event in Singapore during the Chinese New Year period, where beautiful colours, sights and sounds reflecting Singapore’s cosmopolitan society come “alive”.

Interestingly, I found out that the Chingay Parade Singapore was originated from Penang with Chinese origins.
Interested to know more about the colourful history of Chingay? The Chingay 2007 website is just one click away.

What does the Chingay Parade mean to its participants?

Each year, participants from different social and arts groups in Singapore are each given a segment of the Chingay Parade, in which they wield their creativity and put in much sweat and toil to bring beautiful floats, dazzling costumes and impressive performances to audiences. This truly reflects the Chinese saying, 台上一分钟, 台下十年功 (literally, a minute of performance on stage requires ten years of hard work and preparation).

For youth participants, as quoted from a friend who is a backstage participant in the Chingay Parade 2009 helping out with the People's Association Youth Movement’s segment, the Parade is an important platform for them to showcase their talents and to forgo any stereotypes otherwise – that youths are active members of society and capable of accomplishing big things.



Wushu (Chinese Martial Arts) Performance at Chingay Parade of DreamS 2008, with youth participants
Source: SingaporeSights.com, KUEN Wushu Official Blog, Singapore-Wushu.com


A group of one-time participants found this year’s Chingay Parade (February 2008) a fond memory in a different way. Seven couples shared their wedding with the nation through the Chingay Love Boat float. Not your typical wedding scene but a truly romantic one in its own way, I’d say.
Source: Sizzling Chingay 2008 from Asiaone Travel.


Chingay Love Boat Float, Chingay Parade of DreamS 2008
Source: Desmond Wee / The Straits Times


Dressed up in Star Wars’ themed costumes and literally parading their interests at the Chingay Parade 2008, these Star Wars enthusiasts added to the quirky and light-hearted atmosphere of the parade and enjoyed themselves.
Source: Chingay 2008 - Star Wars & Me

What can the spectator expect from the Chingay Parade?

The Chingay Parade is a unique way to encounter the Chinese culture due to its inviting modern touch. Its spark lies in bringing together traditions such as the lion dance and traditional Chinese dances and adding a contemporary twist to it, resulting in the extraordinary. Spectators who have been to the Chingay parade all nod in agreement that it is simply entertaining and not even pictures can capture the sights, sounds and atmosphere at the parade itself.

After my research, am I convinced that I should watch the Chingay Parade 2009 "live"? My answer is a definite yes, because I want to be there to experience what I feel Chingay signifies: not only just a festivity and entertainment, but culture, arts and people. Come join me in experiencing the Chingay Parade of Dreams 2009: Project Wonderland, from the 30th to 31st January, to bring home your own significance and memories of this magical event and to experience the Chinese culture, the Singapore Chingay style.

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Ticketing Information:
All set to go but want to know where to get Parade tickets? I’d be buying my tickets online at SISTIC, but tickets are also available at selected Singapore Visitors’ Centres in Orchard Road and various SISTIC authorised agents islandwide. You can find the latter (SISTIC) at shopping malls such as Plaza Singapura and Bugis Junction - do confirm the availability of the service before heading down.

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Other Opinions/Links:

· Best Spot to Watch Chingay Parade: Click here
· Features of the Chingay Parade 2009 in an article: Click here
· Beautiful Pictures of Chingay 2006: Click here
· Beautiful Pictures of Chingay 2008: Click here

Thanks to:

· Yesterday.sg - History of Chingay
· Marina’s Bloggariffic - Chingay parade 2008 - A flashy event


Posted by Kai Xin at 8:00 pm | 0 Comments

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Mythical Festival in Singapore

 
 


Legendary Poet,Qu Yuan

Source:lbdragonboat

One of the most well-known mythical festivals celebrated by the Chinese in Singapore is the Dumpling Festival, which is also known as 'Duan Wu Jie' or Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore. It commemorates the death of a legendary Chinese saint, Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in a protest against the corrupted government during his time. It falls on the 5th day on the 5th month of the Chinese calendar (Around early to mid June in the solar calendar).

Interested to know more about the origins of this day?
You may like to visit this useful Website for more information.

During this period of time, it is customary for us Chinese to celebrate this festival by eating traditional Chinese food. If you happen to be in Singapore; you will definitely spot Singaporeans eating different flavours of rice dumplings, fondly known as 'Bak Chang' by Hokkiens. In fact this custom of eating rice dumplings is now popular in North and South Korea, Japan and Southeast Asian nations. Rice dumplings are also traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat festival.




Dragon Boat Race

Source:James Mok's Soliloquy

The Singapore Dragon Boat Festival (SBDF) 2008 was the most anticipated event in the Dragon Boat calendar. Held on 28 and 29 June, this year's festival was at Bedok Reservoir. My family and I had made a trip down and sitting under the scorching sun watching the dragon boat race while munching on the ambrosial dumpling was, in my opinion, worth every minute. With thousands of participants, everyone was in high spirits and looking forward to the races with eager anticipation. I was at the edge of my seat as the boats took off from the starting line. During the race, the tough conditions did not seem to dampen the strong fighting spirits displayed by the racers in all of the teams. Their spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, fair play and camaraderie was remarkable to the audience and Nanyang Technological University emerged victorious with the coveted title.




Dumpling Making

Source:Charleswanmushi

This festival never fails to leave me in a tinge of nostalgia and reminiscence of the cherished memories of my childhood. Forever etched in my heart is the memory of seeing my grandma in a frenzied rush to-and-fro the sundry shops, getting all the ingredients necessary for making her delicious rice dumplings. Thereafter, armed with her secret recipe, she will then start stuffing the glutinous rice with different fillings and wrapping them up in fragrant bamboo leaves. These dumplings are then cooked by steaming or boiling. The aromas of freshly-made dumplings made them simply irresistible. There are many different types of dumplings and my favourite is the Delicious Nonya Dumpling, a speciality of Peranakan Cuisine. Just thinking about the exquisite taste of these homemade dumplings made my taste buds come alive.




Different types of Rice Dumpling

Source:Flickr Photo

Want to know what are the difference types of rice dumpling available in Singapore? Click here

Interested in sampling the traditional and unique taste of rice dumplings? They are now available at island-wide roadside stalls and though not homemade, be rest assured that the authenticity and flavour are still retained. If you are, however, interested to know the techniques of making them, do have a look at this Youtube video: Sticky Rice Dumpling, Zongzi, to find out more.




Mouth-watering Rice Dumpling

Source:Jasonmumbles

I will recommend you to eat them while watching the SBDF for your own unique experience. Now equipped with your new found knowledge of the origins of the Dumpling Festival, I am sure you wouldn't want to miss this opportunity to have your own experience of the special way Singaporeans celebrate this festival. You will definitely be engrossed and inspired by the spirited dragon boaters.
Planning to visit Singapore around early to mid June? Don't miss this colourful festival in memory of the Chinese poet and statesman, Qu Yuan, and the opportunity to sample the flavourful rice dumplings in their sweet and savoury forms. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.



Posted by Anonymous at 7:05 pm | 0 Comments

> Back to Top December 03, 2008

Colourful Mid Autumn



Have you ever see groups of kids carrying paper lanterns running down the streets, or decorating the trees in your neighborhood park with multicolored lanterns? This is a common sight during our annual Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival (also known as Lantern Festival) or in Chinese, “Zhong Qiu Jie", where families will gather at night for a reunion, drinking tea and sampling mooncakes under the full moon whilst the kids run around gleefully with lanterns in their hands amidst the chatter of the adults catching up with each others’ lives.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese calendar, which is usually around mid or late September of the solar calendar. There are various stories of how this festival came about. If you want to know more, you can go to this website. During this time, food and beverage businesses, ranging from small bakeries to hotels, will sell a large variety of mooncakes in Singapore.



The contemporary creations these days really exude creativity, thought that double yolk mooncakes were the best you could get? Think again – from the snow skin types to creations such as ice cream mooncakes, Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac Truffle Mooncakes, Oreo Cheese Mooncakes and chocolate-coated mooncakes, my family and I were spoilt for choice. One of the popular favorites I recommend would be the highly raved about D24 durian flavored mooncake from Goodwood Park Hotel, a yellow snow skin mooncake with the durian fruit as filling. This delicacy is something you must not miss.

You would expect the traditional brown-skinned mooncakes to shy away humbly when placed beside the haughty modern creations and although the younger generations might prefer the modern creations over the traditional ones, parents and grandparents would still choose the traditional ones which bring back fond memories from Mid-Autumn festival celebrations all the way back from their childhood days.

Do also bring family and friends to the Singapore Chinese Garden to see the majestic lantern displays and enjoy the performances held during the Mid-Autumn Festival. For this year (2008), to the delight of all the children, the theme for the lantern display was the Hello Kitty Go Race.


Every year without fail, I would spend this special day with my friends - we would visit a friends’ house to gather and celebrate. Dinner would be served and we would proceed to savour mooncakes with Chinese tea as we share the latest happenings in each of our lives. After that, we will sing classic Chinese songs together and play with lanterns and sparklers.

This is the day where most Singaporeans would be able to clear their busy schedules and catch up with friends and relatives over a “pot-luck” mooncake session; a special day to celebrate and have a fun-filled soiree.

Photo Credits: Fikeshk on Flickr, Emicakes, SingaporeSights.com



Posted by Cai Ling at 7:04 pm | 0 Comments

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8th World Wonder

We are a team of students from Hospitality and Tourism Management in Temasek Polytechnic.
This blog is dedicated to everyone who wants to know more about Chinese Culture in Singapore. Join us on a colourful journey to explore the Chinese Events and Festivals in Singapore.
Please click on the buttons above to access the various posts.

The Team

Ang Shu Yi
Samantha Low
Tan Hui Ying
Teo Kai Xin
Yong Cai Ling
of 1H06

Useful Links

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Singapore Tourism Board

Credits

Images

Sub-header, from left
- CNY - Image 1 © Yang Fei Photography
- CNY - Singaporeans' Favourite Fireworks © muzikbug / Flickr.com
- RAB - Image 1 from SingaporeSights.com
- RAB - Image 2 © sHOT-BY-Me / Singaporeshots.com
- Chingay Images © Official Chingay 2009 Website
- SDBF 2008 Image © Sports & Recreation Centre, NTU Singapore - Rice Dumpling Image © masak-masak
- Mid-Autumn Images © Eugene Tang / SingaporeSights.com

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© Coby17 / Brusheezy

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