Singapore festivals are one of the major reasons that some 12 million visitors are lured to the country each year. Due to its time under British rule, Christianity is also a major religion in the city-state. Followers of the faith annually celebrate Vesak Day, which is known as Hari Wesak in Malay. Two of the most popular of these are Easter and Christmas, both of which feature huge celebrations, especially the latter which includes best hotel deals huge floats decorated to celebrate the occasion. Another festival that is popular with locals and tourists alike is Chinese New Year.
As such, the religious ceremony of Eid is important in the city. Those looking for non-religion based festivals will also be able to find a number of enjoyable events within Singapore. The Thian Hock Keng Temple and Wak Hai Chieng Bio Temple are popular sites with tourists, but also integral to Taoist celebrations such as the Festival of the Hungry Ghost and the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. As with the city-states other religions, Hindu houses of worship, like Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, are an excellent place to attend or view such celebrations. Today, citizens decorate their houses, stores and streets with festive regalia, whilst enjoying a day off work, for National Day is a public holiday.
Known as Hari Raya Puasa, Eid is celebrated at the end of Ramadan, a period that sees those of the Islamic faith fast. National Day is one of the most popular and important of all of Singapores festivals. Tourists can also enjoy these two houses of worship throughout the year. Those wishing to join in the festivities, or those that just wish to catch a glimpse of the celebrations, should make their way to one of Singapores mosques, which include the Hajjah Fatimah Mosque and the Sultan Mosque. Those looking to see these festivities in glorious color should head to either the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery or the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, both of which are popular Buddhist places of worship.
Throughout the year there are a number of Singapore festivals which celebrate important dates according to the Christian calendar. These include the likes of the Formula 1 Grand Prix festival, a number of music and arts festivals, as well as a variety of other Singapore festivals both big and small. Such events celebrate important dates in the Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian calendars. This event takes place each year on August 9th and celebrates Singapores independence from Malaysia in 1965. Whilst the beautiful landscapes and enjoyable tourist attractions are lapped up by visitors, these festivals add some color and atmosphere to the country, as well as offering some truly magnificent sights. Singapores Hindu followers also enjoy a range of festivities, including Diwali, which is locally known as Deepavali, as well as Thimithi, Thaipusam and Navarathi.