Celebrating the Lunar New Year of Dragon

Lunar New Year is the biggest holiday in Chinese culture.  This year, the celebration is amplified as it heralds the Year of the Dragon according to the Chinese Zodiac

In Chinese culture, the dragon represents good luck, strength, health and also the male element Yang. The dragon is unique because it is the only mythical creature of all the animals in the Chinese zodiac and babies are born in the year of the dragon more than any other animal.

This Lunar New Year holds particular importance within my extended family, as two siblings share the honor of being born in the Year of the Dragon. To commemorate this occasion, we made the collective decision to gather in Singapore for a joyous reunion, welcoming the auspicious Year of the Dragon together.

Our celebration commenced with the heartwarming reunion of relatives at Changi Airport, marking the first time we convened on foreign soil to observe the Lunar New Year. The air was thick with festive spirit as we embarked on our journey of familial bonds and cultural festivities.

Singapore China Town is a focal point for the lunar new year celebration. Every corner was adorned with vibrant decorations, immersing us in the celebratory ambiance as we savored a sumptuous dinner and strolled through illuminated streets, soaking in the essence of the holiday.

The enchanting Garden by the Bay emerged as a prominent focal point for Lunar New Year festivities, captivating us with its dazzling displays and immersive experiences.

Amidst the joyous reunions and cultural revelries, food took center stage, with lavish feasts gracing our tables both at home and in local eateries.

Venturing beyond the city's confines, we explored Sentosa Island, relishing serene beach walks, delving into history at Fort Siloso, and embarking on invigorating hikes through the lush woodlands of Imbiah Walk. Our guests reveled in Singapore's balmy climate, a welcome respite from the biting cold of their homelands. Multiple visits to the Singapore Botanic Gardens and refreshing swims in the pool further enriched our experience.

A highlight of our Lunar New Year celebration was witnessing the majestic flying dragons grace the skies above Marina Bay on the eve of the New Year, despite a gentle rain shower. The sight of intricately crafted drones forming magnificent dragon shapes illuminated the night, symbolizing the auspicious start of the Year of the Dragon.