An Insider's Guide to Chinatown's Mid-Autumn Festival 2025

The city of Singapore comes alive during the Mid-Autumn Festival, with streets decorated with beautiful lanterns, mooncake stalls, and vibrant cultural activities.

The heartwarming feeling fills the air. As you walk through the Lion City, you’ll see families gathering to celebrate, relatives preparing their thoughtful hampers, and friends captivated by traditional dances.

This year, from September 7 to October 20, 2025, Chinatown will transform into a cultural wonderland to commemorate Singapore’s 60th anniversary. It’s the perfect place to delight in art, culture, and community.

In this blog, we explore how you can share in the joy of tradition and navigate the festivities like a local.

The Main Spectacle: The Street Light-Up & Ceremonial Opening

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colour and gleaming lanterns, the Chinatown Street Light-Up and Ceremonial Opening 2025 is a must-see event.

Taking place on September 18, 2025, this is the official launch where Chinatown unveils its stunning festive lights. The lively opening ceremony provides the perfect setting to experience cherished traditions, featuring a vibrant lineup of cultural performances.

This is your chance to get a front-row seat and witness the magic unravel with friends and family.

A Feast for the Senses: The Festive Street Bazaar

While the Mid-Autumn festival in Singapore is celebrated for its bright lights, the heart of the celebration is togetherness and gratitude.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this joyful atmosphere is by exploring the bustling Festive Street Bazaar. Imagine hundreds of stalls brimming with sweet mooncakes, aromatic tea, fresh fruit, and much more. These seasonal treats are not just delicious; they encourage bonding and bring families closer together.

Beyond the food stalls, the festivities continue to light up the streets. The lantern festival in Singapore provides an opportunity for families to participate in other fun activities, such as the Mass Lantern Walk. During this event, families stroll down the luminous Chinatown streets with colourful lanterns, transforming the neighbourhood into a flowing river of light.

What to See and Buy

It’s not often you get to experience a city erupt with such a beautiful display of lights, traditional music, and the thrill of live performances. Take a moment to slow down and enjoy the warm feeling that comes with togetherness.

As the festival is centred around lanterns, it’s very common for people to buy one or carry one during the evening celebrations. From traditional designs to fun, colourful ones, the options are endless.

In addition, many festive stalls will sell traditional ornaments, handcrafted souvenirs, and aromatic teas you can take back with you.

Must-Try Festive Foods

An exciting part of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore is the delicious festive foods you get to indulge in.

Often referred to as the mooncake festival, it’s only right that mooncakes are the heart of the celebration. From the classic lotus seed paste and red bean fillings, often paired with salted egg, the rich flavours are a nostalgic taste of tradition.

Beyond mooncakes, families enjoy other symbolic dishes, such as pomelos, taro, and roasted duck for the celebratory feast.

Beyond the Bazaar: Authentic Tastes and Cultural Stops

Here are the three key spots to fully experience this radiant celebration:

• Kreta Ayer Square
  This is where Singapore’s culture comes to life. Inside, you can enjoy a variety of traditional Chinese performances during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
• Smith Street & Pagoda Street
  For an authentic taste of Singapore, stroll down to Smith Street, the beloved Chinatown Food Street, bursting with local delicacies. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and festive decorations, Pagoda Street is the place to visit.
• Chinatown Heritage Trails
  To connect with the history of the area, enjoy a peaceful walk along one of the heritage trails. It’s a fantastic way to discover the stories behind the historic shophouses and temples as you admire the beautiful Mid-Autumn decorations.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore brings together people from all over the world. As one of Singapore’s most anticipated festivals, booking your flights and accommodation should be your top priority.

For the most authentic experience, make sure you visit Chinatown to soak in the festive atmosphere in all of its glory and participate in any cultural activities.

Don’t miss out on a festival that celebrates family, lanterns, and mooncakes. For a stay that combines convenience with gorgeous views of the city lights, book your stay at Swissôtel The Stamford today!