One event that has become almost a tradition for most Singaporeans to visit during the Chinese New Year would be River Hongbao. An annual event held without fail for 28 years since 1986, it features large lanterns made by craftsmen from China, handicrafts, local & regional delicacies, stage performances and numerous fringe activities for all ages. Best of all, it’s free admission and possibly the best place to bring the entire family to infuse the festive atmosphere – without burning a bigger hole in your pocket after giving out all the ang pows (red packets) and buying new clothes.
The event is held at The Float @ Marina Bay, right in the heart of Singapore’s downtown.
Look at the throngs of people!
One of the highlights of this year’s event would be this 18-metre tall God of Fortune 财神爷 – everyone wants a piece of fortune in the new year!
Fortune God, please look after me this year okok…bring me more money!
He does look very prosperous, and I am in love with his pom-pom hat lol
This decorated walkway was a natural photo opportunity. I must say it’s very pretty.
The main feature of River Hongbao would be the large-scale lanterns hand-crafted on-site by craftsmen from the Sichuan province. They showcase familiar characters including the God of Fortune, legendary heroes from “The Three Kingdoms” (Guan Yu, Zhang Fei and Liu Bei) as well as the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac.
马到功成
Being the Year of the Horse, a lot of the lanterns featured horses. This one features a Chinese idiom “马到功成” which literally means “success is gained when the horse arrives.” In the past wars were fought on horseback. Hence, once the horses reach the frontline, the war will be won. Now, this Chinese idiom means swift success, and is used as a well-wish.
Hungry? Feast on Yunnan and local delicacies at River Hongbao’s Food Street.
Bunny ears for you, madam?
It’s all kids play at Uncle Ringo!
Oh this is so nostalgic! Long before Facebook and LAN games, kids squealed in delight when parents brought them to Uncle Ringo for kiddy rides. Most of the kids entertainment centres have bitten the dust by now, and you can only find Uncle Ringo at roving events around neighbourhoods. I so very wanted to join in…but well, guess I am a teeny-weeny overaged by now.
童真
I used to love such games, especially the shooting ones!
“Daddy please, can I play again?”
Bumper cars!
Wheee! I wonder if this can take my weight wuahaha
While the kids have Uncle Ringo, the adults can play too…lottery
I was quite surprised to see a Singapore Pools booth at River Hongbao. It was quite apt too, since everyone wanted a piece of luck during the new year. I joined in the fun too, and I think I stunned the staff for a moment when I asked “How many numbers must I choose huh?” He was dumbfounded for 5 seconds and thought I asked him a trick question.
The Palace of Beauties and One Emperor
Dancing Sisters
Sway left, sway right
十二生肖 – 马
Somehow this reminds me of My Little Pony
One of the reasons why people visit River Hongbao is to read their fortunes for the year at the 12 Zodiac lanterns. Find out all you want to know about your career, health, fortune, romance and even your lucky colour & number.
恭喜发财 Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Main Stage Performances
Apart from local entertainers, River Hongbao also partnered the Yunnan Opera Theatre (云南滇剧院) to showcase performances by Yunnan’s ethnic tribes, including the Yi and Dai Tribe.
福如吉祥
Longevity Cranes
花开富贵
巨型走马灯
Read up on Chinese cultural festivals at this huge lantern
许愿池 Wishing Well
Take a coin, make a wish and aim to hit the hanging bells when you throw. If it sounds, your wish will come true. I need a super big coin.Or a gold bar.
It was quite amusing to see Singapore’s favourite fruits on a giant lantern…if only it came with the durian smell lol
Cartoon version of the legendary heroes from “The Three Kingdoms” (Guan Yu, Zhang Fei and Liu Bei)
桃园结义
水上灯组
I was pleasantly surprised with fireworks from the Chingay event happening nearby. It was great to end my visit to River Hongbao on a high, and hopefully it signifies great things to come for the new year. I’m excited! :)
