Singapore gets ready for River Hongbao 2010

With traditions dating back to 1987, River Hongbao has been making merry each Chinese New Year in Singapore with its vivid lantern displays and colorful parades and performances.

This year will be the second time that the event takes place on The Float at Marina Bay. An international lineup of shows and celebrations has been scheduled to last between the nine days between Feb. 12 and 20, 2010.

Visitors to River Hongbao (RHB) 2010 will be treated to exciting experiences enriched with Chinese- and Asian-inspired sights and sounds, culture, food and fun. To mark the cross-cultural collaboration and between Singapore and Chengdu City, this year's program also features local performers from Chengdu on top of popular activities like Chinese lantern riddles and competitions.

Among the large-scale displays to look forward to at River Hongbao are the Chinese God of Fortune and the 12 animals of the zodiac, some of which are floated at designated areas like Panda Playground and Tiger Mountain.

Curious as to how lanterns could be made of sugar and ceramic spoons? Then check the fascinating works for yourself, with many other lighting installations guaranteeing visitors numerous photo opportunities for a memorable Chinese New Year.

Unlike last year, the event's opening hours are extended from 12 noon to 11.30 p.m. daily, excepting the countdown on New Year's Eve.

Organizers of RHB 2010 reckoned "people" are in the heart of the celebrations. Therefore, representatives of Singapore's community districts would be invited and a National Integration Night - a sort of welcome party for new immigrants to the city-state - is held on the last night of the program.

On the last day of RHB 2010, two floats from Chingay Parade will also be joining in the festivities at Marina Bay.

"While continuing with our past traditions, we would also be looking at areas where we can reinvent ourselves and try fresh ideas. We want visiting River Hongbao next year to be an even more enjoyable and meaningful experience," said Liang Eng Hwa, the event's organizing committee chairman, on the RHB 2010 website.

For more information and program details, visit www.riverhongbao.sg

r