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Communities

Learn about the migrant history of Chinese dialect groups, communities, and clan associations

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Language & Education

Explore Mandarin Chinese, dialects, and the changing face of Chinese-language education

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Popular Culture & Media

Dive into the history of media, such as newspaper, radio, television, film, and their personalities

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Social Practices

Learn about the religions, festivals and customs observed by Singapore Chinese

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Literature

Read about acclaimed writers, literary societies, and the development of the local literary scene

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Art

Trace the evolution of Chinese art in Singapore, from the Nanyang Style of painting to other forms of visual expression

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Music

Discover Chinese orchestral music, xinyao, traditional dialect music and more

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Stage Performances

Step into the worlds of Chinese opera, puppetry, and contemporary theatre

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Red packets (Hongbao)

Given out during auspicious occasions such as Chinese New Year and weddings, red packets typically contain cash in an even denomination.

Firecrackers (Bianpao)

They were a common sight during Chinese New Year and other celebrations before being banned in 1972.

Chinese New Year markets in Singapore

Selling festive essentials such as rice cakes, melon seeds and candy, these markets sprang up in places such as Chinatown, Bugis, as well as Ellenborough Street near the Singapore River.

The annual parade has been a feature of Singapore’s Chinese New Year festivities since 1973.

Guangdong lion dance in Singapore

Brought to Singapore by Cantonese immigrants, the Guangdong or southern lion dance is commonly performed during Chinese festivals and the grand openings of businesses. The art remains very much alive, drawing enthusiasts from schools and people of different races and nationalities.