Known as a central hub for modern Asian finance and industry, the island’s unique history makes for a rich and diverse cultural tapestry. Singapore’s exotic mix of Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnicities and British colonial influences make for a fun, fascinating visit.

An island surrounded by the South China Sea, the Straits of Malacca and the Straits of Johore, Singapore covers 697 square kilometres (269 square miles), just 137 kilometres (85 miles) north of the equator. Its nearest neighbour is Malaysia; the Indonesian Islands are to the south, Thailand to the north and the Philippines to the northeast.

Janurary–March:

• Chinese New Year: Lunar New Year lights-up in Chinatown marking the arrival of spring and new beginnings.
  
• Singapore River Hong Bao: Boats covered in lanterns ply the waters around Singapore, and families gather as part of the Lunar New Year celebration.
  
• Chingay Parade is the highlight of Lunar New Year, with colourful floats, dragons and fireworks.
  
• Thaipusam: This Hindu holiday celebrates Lord Subramaniam, destroyer of evil, with parades and prayer.s
  
• Mosaic Music Festival: Bringing together artists from across the world for a 10-day music extravaganza.
  
• World Gourmet Summit brings together top chefs from across Asia and the world for gastronomic delights.
  
• Singapore International Film Festival: A whose who of Asia's top filmographers and cinematographers, both known and up-and-coming.
  

April–July:

• The Great Singapore Sale: Many retailers on the island participate in this annual sale, with deep discounts to lure in tourists and bulk buyers.
  
• Singapore International Racing Festival: For lovers of the finest equestrian sport, this festival does it all.
  
• Singapore Arts Festival: Organized by the National Arts Council, this event brings Asia's biggest artists to the island.
  
• Singapore Food Festival: One of the largest foodie gatherings, this island favourite brings in delights from across the region.
  

August–October:

• National Day celebrations are especially lively in Singapore, and will be heightened in 2015 with the 50th anniversary of independence from Malaysia.
  
• Hari Raya Light-Up: The city's Muslim population helps light up the streets of Singapore for a month.
  
• Singapore Grand Prix: Singapore loves Formula 1, annually hosting the Grand Prix.
  
• Deepavali Light-Up in Little India marks the triumph of good over evil with beautiful strings of lights.
  

November–December:

• Christmas Light-Up on Orchard Road: Christians light up the road in honor of the birth of Jesus.
  
• Marina Bay Singapore Countdown brings together people from across Singapore to launch their New Year's wishes together.

Whether you need to know local festivals or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.