River Hongbao 2026: Celebrate 40 Years of Magic with Massive Lanterns and Stunning Fireworks!

Experience Singapore’s iconic Lunar New Year festival at Gardens by the Bay, featuring majestic horse-themed lanterns, nightly fireworks, and free cultural performances.

Venue: Gardens by the Bay
Dates: 15 to 24 Feb 2026
Admission: Free with paid activities

River Hongbao returns for its 40th anniversary, transforming Gardens by the Bay into a vibrant playground of tradition and modern fun. For families looking for a budget-friendly cultural experience, this 10-day extravaganza is a "must-visit." From the return of grand-scale fireworks to interactive exhibitions, there is a wealth of activities designed to keep both toddlers and grandparents entertained without breaking the bank.

Festive Fireworks

The Meadow will serve as the heart of the celebration, featuring the return of full-scale choreographed fireworks—the first time since 2020! Visitors will be treated to vibrant colours, rhythmic crackles, and an electrifying spectacle lighting up the night sky to welcome the Chinese New Year.

Fireworks Schedule (at The Meadow):

• 15 Feb (Opening Night): 8:00 pm
• 16 Feb (CNY Eve): 12:00 am (Midnight Countdown)
• 17 Feb (Day 1): 9:00 pm

• 18 Feb (Day 2): 9:00 pm

The Lantern Trail: All 2026 Displays

To help you plan your walk-around route at Gardens by the Bay, here are some of the highlighted lanterns you can expect at River Hongbao 2026. From floating displays to interactive arches, there are plenty of photo opportunities for the family!

The God of Fortune (at The Meadow)

The most iconic figure of the festival returns. This year, the God of Fortune holds a Ruyi sceptre in one hand and a bundle of cabbage in the other—a clever pun on the Chinese word for vegetable (cai), which sounds like wealth. He is surrounded by gold ingots and blooming peonies.

40th Anniversary Lantern: Galloping into the Year of the Horse

This grand, scroll-shaped installation is inspired by the phrase wan ma ben teng (ten thousand galloping horses). It features dynamic horses leaping across a backdrop of the Singapore HDB skyline, symbolising the festival’s 40-year journey alongside the nation’s growth.

40th Anniversary Welcome Arch (at The Meadow)

You can’t miss the entrance this year! The main arch is specially designed in the shape of the number "40." It is flanked by vibrant floral side arches filled with butterflies and blossoms, perfect for a family group photo as you enter.

Wishing Heart (感恩的心)

A perennial favourite for kids, this interactive display features three large blossoms and "bells of blessing." Families are invited to toss coins at the bells to make a wish. All proceeds go to Diabetes Singapore, making it a great way to teach the little ones about giving back.

Springtime Harmony (舞动和谐迎新春)

Celebrating Singapore’s multicultural roots, this display features four dancers representing the Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian communities. They are perched atop giant traditional drums decorated with multicultural motifs, symbolising unity and joy.

Leap of Blessing (鱼跃添福)

This majestic floating display features two large carps leaping alongside a cheerful boy. It is inspired by the "carps leaping over the dragon gate" proverb. Look closely at the "gate"—it is modeled after the historic Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest landmarks.

Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity (at Flower Dome)

Inside the Flower Dome, you will find eight life-sized horse lanterns handcrafted by artisans using traditional Tang Dynasty techniques. These are set within a Jiangnan-style garden landscape featuring moon gates, pavilions, and the "Four Gentlemen" of Chinese art (plum blossoms, orchids, chrysanthemums, and bamboo).

Active Play & Amusement Rides

If the kids need to burn off some energy, head over to the Supertree Grove. This area is transformed into a mini-carnival with various rides (charges apply).

• Double-Storey Horse Carousel: The only one of its kind in Singapore—perfect for the Year of the Horse!

• Family Favourites: Classics like the Flying Dumbo, the London Train, and the Space Shuttle will be available.

• Carnival Games: Traditional booths where you can try your hand at winning festive plushies.

Cultural Workshops & Nightly Live Shows

River Hongbao is more than just pretty lights; it is a deep dive into heritage.

• 40th Anniversary Exhibition: An interactive journey through four decades of the festival, featuring archival videos and artifacts.

• Thematic Performance Nights: Every evening offers something different. Catch Movie Night (19 Feb) with Jack Neo and the cast of Ah Girls Go Army, or enjoy the nostalgic tunes of Xinyao Night (22 Feb).

• Gansu Provincial Opera House: Catch world-class performances from this internationally acclaimed troupe on selected nights.

Food Street & Floral Displays

No family outing is complete without snacks. The Food Street at Supertree Grove will offer a mix of local street food and international treats. For a more serene experience, step into the Flower Dome (admission applies) for the "Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity" display, featuring eight life-sized handcrafted horse lanterns nestled among dahlias and azaleas.

BYKidO Pro-Tip

The fireworks are the big draw this year! For the best views with the kids, aim for the 17 or 18 February shows at 9:00 pm. These are much more manageable for early bedtimes compared to the midnight countdown on CNY Eve. Do note that the fireworks are subject to weather conditions, so have a backup plan (like the Food Street!) if it drizzles.

Dates and Times

River Hongbao will be happening at The Meadow, Supertree Grove and Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay from 15 to 24 Feb 2026. 

Event Opening Hours:

• 15 Feb (Opening Night): 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
• 16 Feb (CNY Eve): 6:30 pm – 12:15 am
• 17 – 24 Feb: 2:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Admission is free with charges for amusement rides and Flower Dome entry. Visit www.riverhongbao.sg for the full performance schedule.