Public Holidays in Singapore in 2025 offer a unique glimpse into the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and diverse heritage. These special days provide Singaporeans with opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and bond with family and friends. From the jubilant festivities of Chinese New Year to the solemn observance of Good Friday, each holiday carries its significance and traditions. Throughout the year, these holidays showcase Singapore’s multicultural society, honoring various religious and cultural events as well as national milestones. This blend of celebrations not only brings the community together but also promotes understanding and respect among different ethnic groups, reinforcing Singapore’s reputation as a harmonious melting pot of cultures.
Public Holidays in Singapore in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Singapore in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Chinese New Year | Jan 29, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Chinese New Year Holiday | Jan 30, 2025 | Thursday |
| Hari Raya Puasa | Mar 31, 2025 | Monday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Vesak Day | May 12, 2025 | Monday |
| Hari Raya Haji | Jun 06, 2025 | Friday |
| National Day | Aug 09, 2025 | Saturday |
| Deepavali | Oct 20, 2025 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
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New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year in Singapore. It’s a time for fresh starts, resolutions, and new beginnings. Singaporeans often celebrate with countdown parties on New Year’s Eve, featuring fireworks displays at popular spots like Marina Bay. Families and friends gather for reunion dinners, exchanging well wishes for the year ahead. Many people take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and set goals for the future. It’s also common to send greeting cards or messages to loved ones. The first day of the year is typically spent relaxing, visiting relatives, or enjoying outdoor activities.
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is one of the most important festivals for Singapore’s Chinese community. It celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar. Families gather for reunion dinners, exchange red packets (hongbao) containing money, and visit relatives and friends. Streets and homes are decked out with red lanterns and flags. Traditional activities include lion dances, dragon dances, and firecracker displays. People wear new clothes, often in red, which symbolizes good luck. The festival is a time for renewing relationships, paying respects to ancestors, and wishing for prosperity and good fortune in the coming year.
Chinese New Year Holiday
The Chinese New Year Holiday is an extension of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore. This additional public holiday allows people more time to partake in festive activities and visit family and friends. Many businesses close during this period, giving employees a chance to enjoy the festivities fully. It’s common for people to travel, either returning to their hometowns or going on vacation. Traditional activities continue, such as visiting temples to pray for good fortune or attending community events. The extra day off also provides time for rest and recovery after the busy celebrations. It’s a period of continued feasting, bonding, and spreading good cheer.
Hari Raya Puasa
EID al-Fitr, or Hari Raya Puasa, is another name for this holiday. The Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan comes to a close at this time. In Singapore, it’s an important celebration for the Muslim community. The day begins with prayers at mosques, followed by family gatherings and feasts. People wear new traditional clothes, often in bright colors. Homes are decorated and open to visitors. It’s customary to seek forgiveness from elders and friends, strengthening bonds within the community. Traditional Malay delicacies are prepared and shared. Children receive green packets (similar to Hongbao) containing money. The festival emphasizes charity, forgiveness, and gratitude.
Good Friday
Christians celebrate Good Friday as a day to remember when Jesus Christ was crucified.
In Singapore, the Christian community observes Good Friday as a solemn day of reflection and remembrance. Many churches hold special services, including the Stations of the Cross, which recount Jesus’ final hours. Some Christians fast or abstain from meat on this day. It’s common to see hot cross buns being sold and consumed, symbolizing the crucifixion. Good Friday is an essential part of the Easter season because it leads up to Easter Sunday when people celebrate Jesus’ return. It’s not as fun as other holidays, but it’s still essential.
Labour Day
Singapore’s Labour Day is May 1. It honors the hard work and accomplishments of workers who have helped the country grow. It’s a day to recognize the importance of fair labor practices and workers’ rights. Many companies and organizations hold events to appreciate their employees. Labor unions often organize activities or rallies to highlight workers’ issues. For most Singaporeans, it’s a day off work to rest and spend time with family. Some people use the holiday for short getaways or staycations. The government sometimes chooses this day to make important announcements related to employment policies or initiatives to support workers.
Vesak Day
Vesak Day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. It’s an important day for Buddhists in Singapore. Temples are beautifully decorated, and devotees participate in ceremonies like bathing the Buddha statue and releasing caged birds to symbolize liberation. Many people wear white, offer flowers and incense, and chant sutras. Vegetarian meals are shared as part of practicing compassion for all living beings. Some Buddhists engage in charitable activities or meditation. The celebration emphasizes values like kindness, mindfulness, and wisdom. Non-Buddhists often join in the peaceful atmosphere of the day, reflecting on these universal virtues.
Hari Raya Haji
Eid al-Adha, which is another name for Hari Raya Haji, is an important Islamic holiday that remembers how Prophet Ibrahim was ready to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. In Singapore, Muslims begin the day with prayers at mosques. It’s customary to sacrifice livestock and distribute the meat to family, friends, and people in need. This act symbolizes charity and sharing. Families gather for meals and wear new clothes. Many Muslims also use this time to reflect on their faith and the importance of sacrifice. The festival promotes values of devotion, generosity, and community spirit.
National Day
National Day, celebrated on August 9th, marks Singapore’s independence from Malaysia in 1965. It’s a day of national pride and unity, celebrating the country’s achievements and diversity. The highlight is the National Day Parade, featuring military displays, performances, and fireworks. Many buildings are decorated with Singapore flags. People often wear red and white, the colors of the national flag. Community events and concerts are held islandwide. Families gather to watch the parade on TV or attend celebration parties. The day is an opportunity for Singaporeans to reflect on their national identity, shared values, and hopes for the future.
Deepavali
Deepavali, also known as Diwali or the Festival of Lights, is a significant celebration for Singapore’s Hindu community. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Oil lamps, candles, and bright rangoli patterns are used to decorate homes and churches. People put on new clothes, which are often traditional Indian clothes. Families gather for prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts and sweets. Little India becomes a hub of festivities with bazaars and light-ups. Non-Hindus often join in the celebrations, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food. The festival promotes values of joy, renewal, and community bonding.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Singapore is celebrated by Christians and many non-Christians alike. As a season of joy, giving, and gathering with loved ones, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Churches hold special services, and many homes display Christmas trees and decorations. Gift-giving is common, especially for children. Shopping malls and Orchard Road are famously decorated with festive lights and displays. Families and friends often gather for Christmas dinners, featuring traditional foods like roast turkey or local adaptations. Carol singing, charity events, and visits to Santa Claus are popular activities. The holiday season generally promotes a spirit of generosity and goodwill.