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February 2026 Calendar With Holidays Singapore

Your Essential Guide to February 2026: Singapore Holidays and Calendar Insights

Are you planning a trip to Singapore, managing international business, or just curious about what February 2026 holds in the Lion City? Understanding the local calendar, especially its public holidays, is crucial for smooth planning and an enriching experience. Singapore’s vibrant multicultural fabric means its calendar is dotted with unique festivals and observances, and February 2026 is no exception, featuring one of its most significant annual celebrations: Chinese New Year.

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As someone navigating the complexities of international schedules, I know how frustrating it can be to encounter unexpected closures or miss out on cultural experiences simply because you weren’t aware of local holidays. This guide cuts through the confusion, providing you with a definitive, human-friendly breakdown of February 2026 in Singapore, focusing specifically on what matters to you.

February 2026 at a Glance: Singapore’s Key Dates

February 2026 in Singapore is a month of significant cultural festivities, primarily dominated by the Lunar New Year. While many might only think of Valentine’s Day, Singapore offers a much richer tapestry of events. Below is a comprehensive calendar grid for February 2026, highlighting all major public holidays and notable observances. Pay close attention to the days marked in bold – these are your official public holidays.

February 2026 Singapore Calendar Overview
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 (Thaipusam) 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 (Valentine’s Day)
15 (Total Defense Day) 16 17 (Chinese New Year’s Day) 18 (Second Day of Chinese New Year) 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28

As you can see, the second half of the month includes the powerful two-day public holiday of Chinese New Year. But let’s break down each significant date so you know exactly what to expect.

Official Public Holidays in Singapore for February 2026

This is where you need to pay close attention. Official public holidays mean most businesses, government offices, and banks will be closed. Planning travel or business meetings without acknowledging these dates can lead to frustrating delays. Singapore’s public holidays reflect its multiracial and multi-religious society, granting days off for various major cultural and religious festivals.

Chinese New Year’s Day (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)

Often referred to as the Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year is arguably the most significant annual celebration for a large portion of Singapore’s population. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. In 2026, the first day falls on a Tuesday, creating a mid-week break for many.

  • Cultural Significance: This festival is steeped in tradition, family reunions, and the warding off of evil spirits for a prosperous year ahead. Families gather for reunion dinners, exchange red packets (hongbao) filled with money, and visit relatives and friends. Homes are meticulously cleaned and decorated with red and gold ornaments, symbolizing good fortune and happiness.
  • How it’s Celebrated: Expect vibrant decorations, especially in areas like Chinatown. You’ll see lion and dragon dances, hear firecrackers, and observe people dressed in new clothes. Temples will be bustling with devotees.
  • Impact on Businesses & Services: Expect significant closures. Most retail shops, restaurants, and many businesses owned by Chinese families will close for at least the first two days, some even longer. Banks and government offices will be shut. Public transport generally operates on a holiday schedule but will be crowded, especially around festive areas. Be prepared for some food establishments to be closed or operating with limited hours.

Second Day of Chinese New Year (Wednesday, February 18, 2026)

The celebrations continue into the second day, which is also an official public holiday. This allows families more time to complete their visiting rituals and extend the festive cheer.

  • Continuation of Festivities: Similar to the first day, the second day is dedicated to visiting relatives and friends, exchanging greetings, and enjoying festive meals. Many families travel to see extended relatives.
  • Implications for Visitors: If you’re visiting Singapore during this period, embrace the festive spirit! While some places will remain closed, major attractions like the Singapore Zoo, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa often remain open (sometimes with adjusted hours) to cater to tourists and locals seeking entertainment. However, anticipate larger crowds at these popular spots. Essential services like hospitals and emergency services operate as usual.
February 2026 Official Public Holidays in Singapore
Date Day Holiday Name Significance / Impact
February 17, 2026 Tuesday Chinese New Year’s Day Most businesses, banks, and government offices closed. Significant festive activities. Expect crowds at open attractions.
February 18, 2026 Wednesday Second Day of Chinese New Year Continuation of CNY closures and festivities. Public transport on holiday schedule.

Other Significant Observances and Events in February 2026 Singapore

Beyond the official public holidays, Singapore’s calendar also features several culturally significant observances. While these are not public holidays, they can still influence local activities, traffic, and general atmosphere. Understanding them adds another layer of appreciation for Singapore’s unique blend of cultures.

Thaipusam (Sunday, February 1, 2026)

Thaipusam is a mesmerizing Hindu festival primarily celebrated by the Tamil community. It’s a striking display of devotion, thanksgiving, and penance.

  • Cultural Significance: Dedicated to Lord Murugan (Subramaniam), the Hindu deity of war, youth, and beauty, it commemorates his receiving a spear from his mother Parvati to vanquish the evil demon Soorapadman. Devotees often prepare for the festival by cleansing themselves through prayer and fasting, and some carry offerings or perform acts of self-mortification.
  • How it’s Observed: In Singapore, the highlight is a vibrant procession from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, with devotees carrying kavadis (elaborate, decorated portable altars) and milk pots. It’s an incredibly powerful and visually arresting event.
  • Local Impact: Since Thaipusam falls on a Sunday in 2026, its impact on general business operations is minimal. However, expect significant road closures and heavy crowds along the procession route, particularly around Serangoon Road and Clemenceau Avenue. If you’re in the area, be prepared for diversions and plan extra travel time. It’s a respectful and culturally enriching experience to witness, but photography should always be done discreetly and respectfully.

Valentine’s Day (Saturday, February 14, 2026)

Just like in the USA, Valentine’s Day is a popular occasion for couples in Singapore, though it’s purely a commercial and social observance, not a public holiday.

  • How it’s Celebrated: Expect restaurants to be fully booked, florists to be busy, and malls to feature romantic promotions. It’s a day for gift-giving, romantic dinners, and expressions of love.
  • Differences from USA: While traditions are similar, Singapore might see a slightly more reserved public display of affection compared to some Western cultures, but the underlying sentiment is the same. Prices for romantic experiences (fine dining, hotels) might be elevated.

Total Defense Day (Sunday, February 15, 2026)

Total Defense Day is an annual observance in Singapore that commemorates the fall of Singapore to the Japanese in 1942. It serves as a reminder of the need for all Singaporeans to play a part in the defense of their nation.

Singapore Calendar 2026: Singaporean Holidays and Festivals

Image Source: singaporecalendar.com
  • National Significance: This day reinforces the concept of Total Defence, which encompasses military, civil, economic, social, psychological, and digital aspects of national security. It’s about preparedness and resilience.
  • Observances: Schools, community centers, and military organizations often hold commemorative events, drills, and educational programs to raise awareness about Singapore’s defense capabilities and the importance of national unity. It’s a day of reflection rather than public celebration.
  • Impact: As it falls on a Sunday, there’s no direct impact on business operations. However, you might notice media coverage, educational campaigns, and perhaps some school-related activities if you are interacting with local families.
Other Notable February 2026 Observances in Singapore
Date Day Event Name Description / Impact
February 1, 2026 Sunday Thaipusam Hindu festival of devotion. Processions lead to road closures and crowds along route (Serangoon Rd, Clemenceau Ave). Not a public holiday.
February 14, 2026 Saturday Valentine’s Day Commercial and social observance for couples. Expect busy restaurants and florists. Not a public holiday.
February 15, 2026 Sunday Total Defense Day National observance commemorating the fall of Singapore in WWII. Educational programs, not a public holiday.

Planning Your Trip or Business Around February 2026 Holidays in Singapore

For those of us coming from the USA, understanding how these Singaporean holidays translate into practical implications is key. Whether you’re a tourist or a business traveler, these insights will save you time and hassle.

Travel Considerations: Flights, Accommodation, and Crowds

  • Book Early, Especially for Chinese New Year: If your travel overlaps with Chinese New Year (mid-February), you absolutely must book your flights and accommodation well in advance. Airfares can surge, and popular hotels can fill up quickly. Many Singaporeans travel during this period to visit family, and inbound tourists also come to experience the festivities.
  • Crowds at Attractions: While major tourist attractions typically remain open during Chinese New Year, expect them to be significantly more crowded. Allocate extra time for queues and travel between locations. Thaipusam also brings concentrated crowds and traffic diversions along its specific procession route.
  • Food & Dining: Some hawker centers and family-run restaurants may close for Chinese New Year. While large chain restaurants and hotel dining options will likely be open, consider making reservations, especially for the evening of Chinese New Year’s Eve and the first two days of the holiday. Don’t worry, you won’t starve, but your choices might be more limited.

Business Implications: Closures and Communication

  • Government and Banking: All government offices, post offices, and banks will be closed on February 17th and 18th, 2026. This means no official business, transactions, or permits can be processed on these days.
  • Private Sector: Many private businesses, particularly those with a significant Chinese workforce or management, will also observe the Chinese New Year holidays. Some might even close for a longer period (e.g., a full week) to allow employees to travel or spend time with family. Always confirm operating hours with your Singaporean counterparts well in advance.
  • Communication Strategy: If you have urgent business in Singapore, plan to complete it before the Chinese New Year period or schedule it for late February. Ensure your communication channels are clear, and set expectations for slower response times during the holiday week. Avoid scheduling critical meetings on or around February 17-18.

Experiencing Singapore’s Festivities

Instead of seeing the holidays as an inconvenience, view them as an opportunity to immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich culture:

  • Chinese New Year: Head to Chinatown for incredible decorations, street markets, and the festive atmosphere. Watch a lion dance performance, try traditional CNY snacks like pineapple tarts and bak kwa (barbecued meat slices), and soak in the vibrant energy.
  • Thaipusam: If you’re comfortable with observing a powerful religious procession, the Thaipusam march is a truly unique experience. Maintain respect, keep a distance, and refrain from intrusive photography.
  • Food Trails: Even with some closures, Singapore remains a culinary paradise. Explore diverse food options that aren’t impacted by CNY, like Indian and Malay cuisine, or seek out hotel restaurants offering special holiday menus.

Navigating the Singaporean Calendar: Beyond February 2026

February 2026 is just one snapshot of Singapore’s dynamic calendar. The country proudly celebrates holidays from its various ethnic and religious groups throughout the year. Understanding this diversity helps you appreciate Singapore’s unique social fabric.

  • Multicultural Holidays: Besides Chinese New Year and Thaipusam, Singapore observes Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), Deepavali (Diwali), Christmas, and New Year’s Day as public holidays, ensuring representation for its Malay, Indian, and Christian communities.
  • Strategic Planning: For long-term business or travel to Singapore, it’s wise to consult the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website for the full list of public holidays for the entire year. This allows you to plan your visits strategically, either to avoid closures or to actively participate in the festive periods.

Essential Takeaways for Your Singapore February 2026 Plans

To summarize, if you’re engaging with Singapore in February 2026, here’s what you need to remember:

  • Chinese New Year (Feb 17-18) is a major public holiday: Expect widespread closures for businesses, banks, and government services. Plan accordingly for travel bookings and business communications.
  • Thaipusam (Feb 1) is a significant cultural observance: It’s not a public holiday, but expect localized road closures and crowds along its procession route.
  • Book travel and accommodation early: Demand and prices will likely be higher around Chinese New Year.
  • Embrace the culture: The holidays offer unique opportunities to experience Singapore’s rich traditions.

By keeping these key dates and cultural insights in mind, you’re not just navigating a calendar; you’re unlocking a richer, more efficient, and more enjoyable experience in Singapore. Happy planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the official public holidays in Singapore for February 2026?

Singapore observes two official public holidays in February 2026: Chinese New Year’s Day on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and the Second Day of Chinese New Year on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Will businesses and banks be closed during Chinese New Year in Singapore?

Yes, during Chinese New Year’s Day (February 17) and the Second Day of Chinese New Year (February 18), most government offices, banks, and many private businesses (especially those with a Chinese workforce) will be closed. It’s advisable to confirm operating hours with specific establishments.

What is Thaipusam and how will it affect my visit to Singapore in February 2026?

Thaipusam is a significant Hindu festival falling on Sunday, February 1, 2026. While not a public holiday, it involves a major procession in Singapore, leading to localized road closures and large crowds, particularly along Serangoon Road and Clemenceau Avenue. Plan for traffic diversions if you’re in the area.

Is Valentine’s Day a public holiday in Singapore?

No, Valentine’s Day (Saturday, February 14, 2026) is a social and commercial observance in Singapore, much like in the USA, and is not an official public holiday. Restaurants and romantic venues will likely be busy, so reservations are recommended.

Should I plan my trip to Singapore around the Chinese New Year holidays?

If you wish to experience the vibrant festive atmosphere, then yes. However, be prepared for larger crowds at attractions, potential closures of some local shops and eateries, and higher prices for flights and accommodation. If you prefer quieter travel, consider visiting outside of the February 17-18 period.

Where can I find the official list of Singapore public holidays for the whole year?

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on all public holidays in Singapore for the entire year, you should consult the official website of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore.

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