Guide To River Hongbao 2026 Singapore: Tickets, Lanterns, Carnival & More!

River Hongbao 2026 returns to Gardens by the Bay from 15 to 24 February 2026. From tickets to fireworks, giant lanterns and more, here’s all you need to know before you go!

River Hongbao is one of the most anticipated Chinese New Year events in Singapore. Visitors look forward to a lively celebration of Chinese culture through stunning displays of lights and giant lanterns, art, live cultural performances and more. These symbolise Singapore’s rich cultural heritage and its promising future. This year, River Hongbao 2026 takes place at Gardens by the Bay from 15 to 24 February 2026 with colourful lanterns, festive performances, carnival rides and even marks the return of CNY fireworks! There will also be plenty to feast on at the Food Street to satisfy hungry tummies. Read on for the highlights of River Hongbao and check out our pics of this year’s lantern displays!

What does ‘River Hongbao’ mean?

When River Hongbao first began, the festivities took place at Marina Bay by the Singapore River, hence the word ‘River’ in its name. ‘Hongbao’ means ‘red packet’, a monetary gift given to children and unmarried adults as a gesture of good luck and prosperity. Beyond symbolic gifts, River Hongbao is a communal celebration that invites people of all backgrounds to gather and celebrate Chinese culture in an inclusive and engaging way.

River Hongbao began in 1987 when it was first launched by the Singapore Tourism Board. This year will be its 40th edition! Each year, the theme of River Hongbao revolves around the zodiac animal of the new Lunar Calendar. This year’s edition of River Hongbao will celebrate the Year of the Horse. River Hongbao is celebrated with a plethora of exciting cultural activities and spectacular displays for the whole family.

When does River Hongbao take place?

River Hongbao takes place for 10 days during Chinese New Year from 15 to 24 February 2026.

Where does River Hongbao take place?

This year’s River Hongbao takes place at Gardens by the Bay.

Fun fact: River Hongbao was originally held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium to create an outdoor Chinese New Year celebration. In 2005, it was relocated to the Marina Bay area, where it still takes place, against the backdrop of the gorgeous Singapore skyline. This Chinese New Year event has taken place at Gardens by the Bay since 2021.

Are there fireworks at River Hongbao?

Yes! This year, visitors can look forward to a spectacular fireworks show at The Meadow–the first time the event has had fireworks since 2020. Watch the night sky light up with vibrant colours in choreographed bursts for an electrifying display to usher in the Year of the Horse with a bang! Previous years’ celebrations featured firecracker shows.

River Hongbao fireworks timings at The Meadow:
15 February 2026: 6pm
16 February 2026: 12am
17 February 2026: 9pm
18 February 2026: 9pm

What are the opening hours of River Hongbao?

Festivities begin at 6:30pm on 15 and 16 February 2026 and at 2:30pm daily from 17 to 24 February 2026. Here’s the full breakdown of opening hours of River Hongbao:

15 February 2026: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
16 February 2026: 6.30pm – 12.15am
17 – 24 February 2026: 2.30pm – 10.30pm

Highlights at River Hongbao 2026

Every year, visitors look forward to a night full of fun at the River Hongbao. This year, River Hongbao celebrates its 40th anniversary, tracing the rich heritage of Singapore’s Chinese New Year festival from its humble beginnings along the Singapore River in 1987. From IG-worthy, larger-than-life lantern displays to live entertainment, lion dances and a mouthwatering food street, River Hongbao has something for everyone.

Giant lanterns at River Hongbao

Soak in the festive vibes of River Hongbao as you marvel at giant lantern displays that illuminate Gardens by the Bay.

Look out for the God of Fortune lantern display that’s sure to be a prosperous backdrop for family pics!

We absolutely love the magnificent horse display at River Hongbao, which makes for a good photo op as you gallop into the Year of the Horse with your loved ones!

There’s also this extremely Instagrammable walkway at The Meadow. We love the gorgeous lit-up flowers and dazzling lights that make this the perfect place for a romantic stroll.

Plus, look out for the colourful exhibit that celebrates River Hongbao’s 40-year history and reflect on all of your favourite memories!

Live performances at River Hongbao

Setting the mood for River Hongbao are live cultural performances that take place each night. Local talents such as Charlie Lim, Jocie Guo, Boon Hui Lu, and more are taking the stage at River Hongbao. Plus, Kowloon Club and Gansu Provincial Opera House will be taking part in this year’s celebration for the first time ever.

You can also catch thematic nights that include Getai Night, Xinyao Night, Movie Night and Singapore Talent Night–all great ways for the kids to immerse themselves in local Chinese traditions.

Carnival rides at River Hongbao

Carnival rides are back this year at River Hongbao at the Supertree Grove! Kids can ride the Double-Storey Horse Carousel and other fun rides such as the Flying Dumbo and the London train. There are also carnival games to play as a family. Do note that these rides and games come at an additional charge!

Food Street at River Hongbao

When tummies start grumbling, make your way to the Food Street at River Hongbao, where you can feast on an array of local and international dishes from street snacks to traditional delights. You’re sure to find something for even the pickiest eaters!

How much are tickets for River Hongbao?

River Hongbao is a completely free event! Simply save the date in your calendar, and bring the family along for a fun-filled evening and a memorable Chinese New Year celebration!

Read more: Chinese New Year Activities & Events In Singapore

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