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Complete Guide to Public Holidays in Singapore 2016: Plan Your Work and Play!

Public Holidays In Singapore 2016

Discover the public holidays in Singapore for 2016 and plan your vacations accordingly. Stay updated with our comprehensive list!

Are you planning your vacations for the year 2016? Do you want to know when the public holidays in Singapore are so that you can plan your itineraries accordingly? Let’s take a look at the list of public holidays in Singapore 2016:

The year 2016 brings 11 public holidays for Singaporeans and permanent residents. And guess what, there will be seven long weekends! Long weekends are always perfect for a short and relaxing getaway. True, isn’t it?

The first public holiday of the year is New Year Day, which falls on Friday (1st January). For most people, it’s a time to catch up with families and friends, go out for dinner, party merry and make some noise as we countdown to midnight.

The next public holiday is Chinese New Year (CNY), which is celebrated on 8th and 9th February. It’s one of the biggest festivals in the Chinese calendar, and you can expect plenty of lion dances, yummy food and family reunions during this period. The streets and shopping malls are decorated in red and gold, and there are plenty of cultural performances to enjoy.

Good Friday falls on 25th March, and it is an important day for Christians all around the world. Many Christians attend church services, pray and spend time reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Some non-Christians may take the opportunity to go on a short trip or gather with friends for a meal or movie.

Labor Day is celebrated on 1st May, and it’s a tribute to workers who have contributed towards the nation’s development. There are various activities and events happening around the city, including carnivals, exhibitions, and sporting events. So why not join in the celebration and take part in these exciting events?

The following holiday is the Vesak Day, which occurs on 21st May. Vesak is an important day for Buddhists as it commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. At this time, temples across the island usually have special events, such as meditation sessions, chanting and the lighting of candles.

Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated by Muslims worldwide. The date for this festival depends on the Islamic lunar calendar, but it will fall on 6th July this year in Singapore. You can expect lots of delicious food, house visiting, exchanging of gifts and money packets (green envelopes), traditional performances, and colourful decorations during this festival.

The next public holiday is National Day – Singapore’s birthday! This day marks the country’s independence from Malaysia and is celebrated with a grand parade, fireworks, and various cultural performances. It’s a great time for locals and tourists alike to show their love and pride for the country.

After National Day, we have another long weekend with Hari Raya Haji, which falls on 12th September. This fruitful holiday is celebrated by Muslims to honour Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to God. Muslims may go to the mosque to offer prayers, perform the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca or simply relax with their families and friends.

The next holiday is Deepavali, which is the Hindu festival of lights and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It will be celebrated on 29th October this year. The streets are lit up with beautiful lights and colourful decorations, and you can see people dressed in traditional clothing. The festival is usually celebrated with firework displays, delicious food, and lots of joy.

Christmas day falls on Sunday, so Christmas eve will make it a long weekend. The festive season is always a time for joy, love, and family gatherings. Don’t miss out on the delicious food, Secret Santa, exchanging of presents, wonderful music, and sweet memories.

These are the 11 holidays that Singaporeans and residents can look forward to this year. So what are you waiting for? Plan your vacations ahead and make use of these public holidays in Singapore 2016. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore new destinations, spend quality time with friends and family, and create great memories that will last forever.

Public Holidays in Singapore 2016

One of the things that make Singapore an amazing place to live in or visit is its array of public holidays. These are days when most businesses and offices are closed, and people take time off work to celebrate or spend time with their loved ones. In 2016, there were a total of eleven public holidays in Singapore. In this article, we will look at each of them.

New Year's Day: January 1st

The year 2016 kicked off with a holiday on Friday, January 1st. New Year's Day is always a special holiday, as it marks the beginning of a new year. On this day, people reflect on the past year, set goals for the new year, and spend time with friends and family. It is also a great day to attend church services, watch fireworks displays, or have a picnic in one of Singapore's many parks.

Chinese New Year: February 8th - February 9th

Chinese New Year is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Singapore. It falls on the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which is usually in late January or early February. The celebrations last for fifteen days, but the first two days are public holidays. During this time, people clean their homes, buy new clothes, visit relatives, and enjoy lots of delicious food.

Good Friday: March 25th

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which is usually in March or April. On this day, many Christians attend church services, fast, and pray. Others use the day to rest or spend time with their families.

Labour Day: May 1st

Labour Day is a global celebration of the achievements of workers. In Singapore, it is a day to celebrate the contributions of workers to the country's economy and society. On this day, many workers attend parades, rallies, or other events organized by their unions. Others take the day off to rest or spend time with their families.

Vesak Day: May 21st

Vesak Day is a significant holiday for Buddhists around the world. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. Many Buddhists in Singapore visit monasteries or temples on this day to meditate, make offerings, or take part in processionals. There are also public events that showcase Buddhist culture and teachings.

Hari Raya Puasa: July 6th - July 7th

Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims. The holiday lasts for two days and is a time for Muslims to give thanks and celebrate with their families. It is also a time to forgive others and ask for forgiveness. During this time, many people wear new clothes, cook delicious food, and visit their relatives.

National Day: August 9th

National Day is perhaps the most important holiday in Singapore. It commemorates the country's independence from Malaysia in 1965. On this day, there is usually a grand parade, fireworks displays, and cultural performances. It is also a time to reflect on what Singapore has achieved over the years and to look forward to its future.

Hari Raya Haji: September 12th

Hari Raya Haji is an important Muslim holiday that marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. It is also a time to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son for Allah. During this time, Muslims in Singapore slaughter sheep or cows and distribute the meat to the poor. It is also a time to visit relatives and pray in mosques.

Deepavali: October 29th

Deepavali, or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant holidays for Hindus around the world. It celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. During this time, many people light oil lamps, decorate their homes with colorful lights, and exchange gifts with their relatives. It is also a time to enjoy delicious food and sweets.

Christmas Day: December 25th

Finally, the year 2016 ended with Christmas, a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. On this day, many Christians attend church services, exchange gifts, and spend time with their families. It is also a time for reflection, forgiveness, and love.

Conclusion

Public holidays in Singapore are more than just a break from work or school. They are an opportunity to celebrate the country's diverse cultures and religions, to strengthen family ties, and to reflect on what really matters in our lives. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, these public holidays are a great way to experience the spirit and soul of Singapore.

Introduction

Singapore is a widely celebrated country in terms of public holidays and festivals. The year 2016 witnessed a total of 11 gazetted public holidays and more than 8 major festivals celebrated across the island city-state. The country follows a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultural aspects that adds up to its diverse holiday experiences.

Gazetted Public Holidays

New Year’s Day (1st January)

The first day of the year marks a public holiday all over Singapore. It is a clean slate for the people of the world to start afresh. People spend time with family and friends, organize parties and get together to celebrate the first day of the year.

Chinese New Year (8th-9th February)

One of the most celebrated festivals in Singapore is Chinese New Year. The streets light up and the atmosphere buzzes with festivity throughout the two-day holiday. It’s a time when families come together to enjoy delicious food, exchange gifts, and light fireworks.

Good Friday (25th March)

Good Friday is a religious holiday that is celebrated across many countries in the world. Singapore celebrates this day with reverence and solemnity. Christian communities attend church services and organize processions on this day.

Labor Day (1st May)

Labor Day is celebrated as a tribute to the contributions made by the workforce of Singapore. People usually enjoy a day off from work, have a barbeque with friends, or explore the city on bicycles or foot.

Vesak Day (21st May)

Another important religious festival celebrated in Singapore is Vesak Day, a day that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. The streets of Singapore come alive with vibrant lanterns and religious processions reflecting the Buddhist teachings of kindness and compassion.

Hari Raya Puasa (6th July)

Also known as Eid al-Fitr, this holiday marks the end of Ramadan, wherein Muslims across the world fast for a month. It’s a time for families to come together, enjoy delicious food and exchange gifts. The celebrations continue with visits to relatives and friends throughout the day.

National Day Singapore (9th August)

Singapore's National Day celebrates the country's independence from Malaysia on 9 August 1965. The day is filled with parades, fireworks, and feasting all over the city-state. It is a day that Singaporeans take pride in their nation's achievements and growth.

Hari Raya Haji (12th September)

Also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, it honors the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command. It’s a day when Muslims gather and participate in prayer congregations followed by community feasts.

Deepavali (29th October)

A festival that usually happens in the month of October or November, Deepavali is celebrated by the Hindu community in Singapore. It marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. People clean and decorate their houses, prepare special sweets and snacks, and exchange gifts with their friends and loved ones.

Christmas Day (25th December)

The last day of the year’s holidays is Christmas Day, celebrated across the world with much enthusiasm and joy. The festive atmosphere kicks in early December with decorations, Santa Claus, and good cheer. People take part in midnight mass and spend quality time with loved ones on this day.

Table Comparison

Holidays Dates Celebrations
New Year’s Day 1st January Enjoy festive events, parties, go out with family and friends or explore the city
Chinese New Year 8th-9th February Singapore lights up with festive atmosphere; people enjoy delicious food, exchange gifts, and light fireworks.
Good Friday 25th March Christians attend Church services and organize processions reflecting the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Labor Day 1st May A tribute to the contributions made by the workforce of Singapore.
Vesak Day 21st May The festival reflects the Buddhist teachings of kindness and compassion and is celebrated with vibrant lanterns and religious processions.
Hari Raya Puasa 6th July A time for families to come together for delicious food, exchange gifts, and visit relatives and friends.
National Day Singapore 9th August A day that Singaporeans take pride in their nation's achievements and growth.
Hari Raya Haji 12th September Muslims gather and participate in prayer congregations followed by community feasts.
Deepavali 29th October Celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm by the Hindu community in Singapore.
Christmas Day 25th December The festive atmosphere kicks in with decorations, Santa Claus, and good cheer.

Opinion

Public holidays are a way for people to come together and celebrate their culture, beliefs, and traditions. It is a time when people reconnect with their roots and create lifelong memories. Singapore, with its diverse cultural influences, offers unique and rich experiences in each of its celebrations and festivals, making it one of the most celebrated places in Southeast Asia.

Introduction

Singapore is a bustling island city-state in Southeast Asia, known for its cosmopolitan culture and diverse population. One of the perks of living here is the numerous public holidays that are observed throughout the year. With so many public holidays in Singapore 2016, it can be tricky to keep track of all of them. This guide will help you understand what to expect, and how to make the most of your days off.

Overview of Public Holidays in Singapore

There are a total of eleven public holidays in Singapore in 2016, each with their own significance and traditions. The following sections will give you a brief overview of each holiday, along with some ideas on how to celebrate.

New Year's Day – January 1st

The first public holiday of the year is New Year's Day. This is a time for reflection, celebration, and setting intentions for the year ahead. Many people choose to spend this day with loved ones, enjoying a leisurely brunch or taking a trip to the beach. If you're feeling motivated, you can also use this time to set some goals and resolutions for the year ahead.

Chinese New Year – February 8th and 9th

Chinese New Year (CNY) is one of the most important holidays in Singapore, with celebrations lasting for two weeks. The first two days of CNY are public holidays, and many businesses close during this time. CNY is a time for family reunions, traditional foods, and lion dances. If you're not Chinese, don't worry - you can still join in on the festivities and explore the various traditions.

Good Friday – March 25th

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Singapore, many Christians attend church services and participate in processions on this day. Some non-Christians may also choose to have a quiet day at home, or take advantage of the long weekend to travel or spend time with loved ones.

Labor Day – May 1st

Labor Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of workers around the world. In Singapore, there are often parades or rallies held in support of workers' rights and fair treatment. Many people choose to spend this day relaxing, catching up on hobbies, or enjoying time outdoors.

Vesak Day – May 21st

Vesak Day is a Buddhist holiday that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. In Singapore, many Buddhists will visit temples and take part in ceremonies during this day. Others may choose to volunteer or donate to charitable causes that align with Buddhist values.

Hari Raya Puasa – July 6th

Hari Raya Puasa is an Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. In Singapore, many Muslims will gather with family and friends to break the fast and enjoy festive food. Non-Muslims can also participate in the celebrations by trying traditional dishes, attending mosque open houses, and learning about the significance of the holiday.

National Day – August 9th

National Day is a patriotic holiday that celebrates Singapore's independence from Malaysia in 1965. There are usually parades, fireworks, and concerts held throughout the country on this day. If you're feeling particularly festive, you can also dress up in red and white (Singapore's national colors) or attend a community event.

Hari Raya Haji – September 12th

Hari Raya Haji is an Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham in the Bible) to sacrifice his son as an act of faith. In Singapore, many Muslims will perform a pilgrimage, or hajj, to Mecca during this time. Others may choose to participate in animal sacrifices, prayer services, or community events.

Deepavali – October 29th

Deepavali (also known as Diwali) is a Hindu holiday that celebrates light over darkness and good over evil. In Singapore, many Hindus will light oil lamps, decorate their homes, and exchange gifts with loved ones. Others may choose to attend cultural performances, try traditional foods, or volunteer at a local charity.

Christmas Day – December 25th

Christmas Day is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. In Singapore, many Christians will attend church services, decorate their homes, and exchange gifts with loved ones. Other non-Christians may also participate in the festivities by attending holiday markets, trying traditional foods, or spending the day with friends and family.

Conclusion

Public holidays are a great opportunity to connect with loved ones, experience new cultures, and take a break from our busy lives. Whether you choose to spend your days off relaxing at home, exploring Singapore's various neighborhoods, or traveling abroad, remember to make the most of the time you have. By understanding the traditions and significance behind each public holiday in Singapore 2016, you can deepen your appreciation for the diverse and vibrant community you're a part of.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about the public holidays in Singapore for 2016. These holidays are a wonderful time for locals and tourists alike to become immersed in the nation's culture, traditions, and celebrations. With each holiday offering a unique experience, visitors to Singapore can expect to learn about the country’s history and customs while enjoying local delicacies and participating in various festivities.

Whether you prefer outdoor events or indoor exhibitions, there is always something to see and do during Singapore's many public holidays. The city-state is well-known for its diverse and vibrant culture, which is evident throughout the year at numerous events, parades, and shows. From traditional festivals to modern carnivals, visitors will have an exhilarating time exploring Singapore's rich heritage.

If you are an art lover, Singapore's public holidays provide the perfect opportunity to explore the city-state's vibrant arts scene. Art galleries and museums often showcase specially curated exhibitions during holidays such as National Day. Additionally, cultural performances, such as traditional dances, music, and theater are commonly held during major holidays such as the Lunar New Year or Deepavali.

For those seeking a break from the buzz of the city, spending time with family and friends across Singapore’s numerous national parks and outdoor spots is an excellent choice. During festivals such as Hari Raya Puasa, visitors can even participate in open-air street bazaars, providing the opportunity to indulge in traditional Malay cuisine and purchase authentic souvenirs.

If you are planning an extended vacation, it is crucial to keep in mind Singapore’s public holidays when scheduling your trip. Planning your itinerary around these dates will allow you to take full advantage of the festivities that occur on these dates. It will also enable you to make the necessary reservations in advance and avoid any disappointment related to travel and accommodation arrangements.

While Singapore’s many public holidays bring so much joy and excitement to visitors, it is crucial to understand local etiquette and customs. Remember to dress modestly when attending religious events, and always be respectful of Singapore's cultural practices. Additionally, consider learning some of the local language's basic phrases and courtesies to make your stay in Singapore more enjoyable.

For those considering relocating to Singapore, these public holidays offer a glimpse into local life and the various events that define the country. From the food to the people and everything in between, the public holidays provide a unique opportunity to learn about Singapore's diverse culture and history.

In summary, we hope that this article has provided valuable information about Singapore’s public holidays for 2016. Whether you are looking forward to immersing yourself in the rich culture, trying traditional cuisines or socializing with locals, there is no doubt that Singapore’s holiday festivities will leave you with lasting memories. Whatever your reason for visiting Singapore may be, do not forget to enjoy all that the country has to offer during its vibrant public holidays!

People Also Ask about Public Holidays in Singapore 2016:

  1. What are the public holidays in Singapore in 2016?
    • New Year's Day: January 1, 2016
    • Chinese New Year: February 8-9, 2016
    • Good Friday: March 25, 2016
    • Labor Day: May 1, 2016
    • Vesak Day: May 21, 2016
    • Hari Raya Puasa: July 6, 2016
    • National Day: August 9, 2016
    • Hari Raya Haji: September 12, 2016
    • Deepavali: October 29, 2016
    • Christmas Day: December 25, 2016
  2. How many public holidays does Singapore have in 2016?
    • Singapore has a total of 11 public holidays in 2016.
  3. What is the significance of the public holidays in Singapore?
    • The public holidays in Singapore reflect the multicultural nature of the country and celebrate important events and festivals for different races and religions.
  4. Are shops and businesses closed on public holidays in Singapore?
    • Most shops and businesses are closed on public holidays in Singapore. However, major shopping centers, tourist attractions, and some convenience stores remain open.
  5. Are public transport services available on public holidays in Singapore?
    • Yes, public transport services such as buses and trains operate on reduced schedules on public holidays in Singapore.

People Also Ask About Public Holidays In Singapore 2016

1. How many public holidays are there in Singapore in 2016?

In 2016, there were a total of 11 public holidays in Singapore.

  • New Year's Day - January 1st
  • Chinese New Year - February 8th and 9th
  • Good Friday - March 25th
  • Labour Day - May 1st
  • Vesak Day - May 21st
  • Hari Raya Puasa - July 6th
  • National Day - August 9th
  • Hari Raya Haji - September 12th
  • Deepavali - October 29th
  • Christmas Day - December 25th
  • Boxing Day - December 26th

2. Are public holidays observed nationwide in Singapore?

Yes, public holidays in Singapore are observed nationwide. This means that people across the entire country have the day off from work or school to celebrate these occasions.

3. What is the significance of the public holidays in Singapore?

The public holidays in Singapore hold cultural, religious, and historical significance. They provide an opportunity for individuals to celebrate and commemorate important events and traditions. These holidays also promote social cohesion and unity among Singaporeans.

4. Are public holidays paid days off in Singapore?

Public holidays are generally considered paid days off for employees in Singapore. However, it is important to refer to the employment contract or company policy to confirm the specific details regarding payment for public holidays.

5. Can public holidays be substituted or replaced in Singapore?

In Singapore, public holidays are generally fixed and cannot be substituted or replaced unless there are exceptional circumstances. Any changes or substitutions to public holidays would require official announcements from the government or relevant authorities.

6. Do public holidays affect public services and transportation in Singapore?

Yes, public holidays can have an impact on public services and transportation in Singapore. Some services may operate on a reduced schedule, while others may be closed entirely. It is advisable to check with the respective service providers or transportation companies for any changes or disruptions during public holidays.

7. Are there any special events or activities held during public holidays in Singapore?

Yes, public holidays often coincide with special events and activities in Singapore. For example, during Chinese New Year, there are vibrant street parades and cultural performances. Likewise, National Day is celebrated with grand fireworks displays and patriotic ceremonies. These events offer opportunities for locals and tourists to participate in the festive atmosphere and experience the diverse culture of Singapore.

8. Can foreigners in Singapore celebrate and participate in public holidays?

Absolutely! Foreigners residing or visiting Singapore are more than welcome to celebrate and participate in public holidays. It provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the local traditions, customs, and festivities.

In conclusion,

Public holidays in Singapore play a significant role in the nation's culture and society. They offer a chance for people to take a break from their daily routines, come together as a community, and celebrate important occasions. Whether it's through religious ceremonies, family gatherings, or public events, these holidays contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Singapore's multicultural society.