The Chinese zodiac calendar has finally come full circle. Here at Tatler, we have curated some of the best ways to welcome new beginnings as you usher in the Year of the Rat
Tatler Asia
Above Almost 55 (Image: Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay)

1. Huayi—Chinese Festival of Arts

What The 18th edition of the annual Chinese festival of arts is the perfect backdrop to immerse yourself in the season of Spring. Featuring a wide range of performances and commissioned programmes, the line-up covers everything from the traditional to contemporary. Dance enthusiasts can look forward an autobiographical dance solo, Almost 55, that traces the career of pioneer contemporary dancer Qiao Yang, while patrons of the theatre can head to 7 Sages of the Bamboo Grove, a theatre production that takes place in a surveillance state, directed by Goh Boon Teck. 

When January 31 till February 9

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Gardens by the Bay)

2. Dahlia Dreams display at Gardens by the Bay

What Witness more than 70 Dahlia cultivars come into full bloom alongside vivid clusters of Azaleas, Celosias and Narcissuses, at the Gardens by the Bay this Lunar New Year. To further set the auspicious mood, a magnificent archway and pavilion will line the pathway, leading guests on a trail towards two golden rat sculptures in the centre field, amongst the colourful hues. 

When January 17 till February 23

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: ION Orchard)

3. Visual spectacle at ION Sky

What ION Sky plays host to a show specially created just for the Lunar New Year. Titled First Day of Spring, it is filled with a myriad of multicoloured visuals, including classic Chinoiserie-styled patterns in blue and white, to get shoppers in the mood for Spring. 

When From early February 

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Resorts World Sentosa)
Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Resorts World Sentosa)

4. Dragon performances at Resorts World Sentosa

What Crowds at Resorts World Sentosa will be thrilled to find some of their favourite characters in festive-wear, as they entertain with two spectacular dragon dance performances that are certain to delight audiences of all ages. Look out for characters such as the playful yellow Minions who will embark on The Auspicious Dragon Trail at Universal Studios Singapore, all while dressed in outfits that pay special homage to the zodiac character this year.

When Till February 9

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Resorts World Sentosa)

5. Underwater performance at S.E.A. Aquarium

What Adventure awaits at the S.E.A. Aquarium as divers perform an underwater dragon dance for excited onlookers while being surrounded by 40,000 marine inhabitants. The performance will be located at the Open Ocean Habitat, where audiences can not only immerse themselves in the festive decor done to usher in more prosperity, but also identify iconic species such as the yellow-hued pineapple fish—a famous symbol of wealth in Chinese custom due to its pineapple-like appearance. 

When Till February 9

(Related: Resorts World Sentosa Gears Up For Its Inaugural Wine Pinnacle Awards)

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: The Sanchaya)

6. Escape to The Sanchaya

What If you're looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Lunar New Year festivities, head to the tranquil, beachfront grounds of The Sanchaya, located less than an hour away from our shores. Once there, the resort has prepared a slew of activities to celebrate the occasion, including a traditional lion dance, yu sheng ceremony, and an exclusive culinary menu to welcome new beginnings and ring in the auspicious season. 

When Till February 15

(Related: 5 Minutes With… Natalya Pavchinskaya, Founder And CEO Of The Sanchaya)

Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Green is the New Black)
Tatler Asia
Above (Image: Green is the New Black)

7. Fundraiser event at Kilo Kitchen

What In the spirit of new beginnings, why not seek out opportunities to enable others by participating in a fundraising dinner to support the wildlife rescue and communities affected by the ongoing bushfires in Australia? 

Held by Green Is The New Black, the organisation has reached out to Singapore-based partners such as Kilo Kitchen, Merci Marcel and Codigo to bring happy donors a sumptuous 4-course vegetarian feast. Drag stars Mona Kee Kee and Lykkie Liquor will also be taking centre stage, while DJ Oliver Osbourne and David Caroll keep guests entertained and on their feet with their lively tunes. 

When January 25

(Related: These Luxury Brands Are Offering Support To The Australian Bushfire Efforts—Here’s How You Can Help)

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