Singapore’s public holiday calendar for 2024 is marked with a variety of days that reflect its cultural diversity and history. With holidays ranging from Chinese New Year to Deepavali, each occasion adds to the national calendar, allowing residents to observe and honour their heritage and beliefs.
In 2024, the island nation will observe 11 gazetted public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Good Friday, Labour Day, Vesak Day, Hari Raya Puasa, National Day, Hari Raya Haji, Deepavali, and Christmas Day.
| Holiday | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 Jan 2024 | Monday |
| Chinese New Year | 10 Feb 2024 | Saturday |
| 11 Feb 2024* | Sunday | |
| Good Friday | 29 Mar 2024 | Friday |
| Hari Raya Puasa | 10 Apr 2024 | Wednesday |
| Labour Day | 1 May 2024 | Wednesday |
| Vesak Day | 22 May 2024 | Wednesday |
| Hari Raya Haji | 17 Jun 2024 | Monday |
| National Day | 9 Aug 2024 | Friday |
| Deepavali | 31 Oct 2024 | Thursday |
| Christmas Day | 25 Dec 2024 | Wednesday |
*Note: Monday, 12 Feb 2024, will be a public holiday.
This table lists the gazetted public holidays for Singapore in 2024.
These holidays offer a glimpse into the country’s commitment to its multicultural population, recognising various ethnic groups and religions. The Ministry of Manpower provides guidelines on holiday entitlements and payments, ensuring that the workforce is well-informed about their rights during these periods.
Planning around these dates is essential for both businesses and the public to prepare for the year ahead. The inclusion of these dates in the national calendar allows for careful scheduling of events and activities, minimising disruptions while maximising participation. The public holidays of Singapore in 2024 afford everyone the opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and rest, whilst maintaining the nation’s productive rhythm.
2024 Public Holiday Singapore Overview
In Singapore, the year 2024 marks a calendar featuring 11 national public holidays and five extended weekends. These days are designated by the government and recognise cultural celebrations as well as significant historical events. Employers must adhere to statutory requirements, ensuring that employees receive proper entitlements for work conducted on these holidays.
Singapore Public Holidays 2024:
- New Year’s Day: 1 January (Monday)
- Chinese New Year: 10 February (Saturday), 11 February (Sunday), with the following Monday, 12 February, as a holiday.
- Good Friday: 29 March (Friday)
- Hari Raya Puasa: 10 April (Wednesday)
- Labour Day: 1 May (Wednesday)
- Vesak Day: 22 May (Wednesday)
- Hari Raya Haji: 17 June (Monday)
- National Day: 9 August (Friday)
- Deepavali: 31 October (Thursday)
- Christmas Day: 25 December (Wednesday)
Employees covered under the Employment Act are ensured paid leave for all Singapore public holidays. If required to work, they receive an extra day’s pay at their basic rate, as well as their usual gross pay for that day. Alternatively, some employees may receive time off in lieu. When public holidays fall on a weekend, such as Chinese New Year in 2023, the Monday is taken instead of the Sunday for an extended weekend.
For those planning around Singapore public holidays and the five long weekends in 2024, it is advisable to review the official updates regularly as dates for celebrations like Hari Raya Haji and Deepavali can change based on lunar observations. National Day on 9 August commemorates Singapore’s independence and is a patriotic celebration across the country. The Lunar New Year, commonly known as Chinese New Year, ushers in a period of joyous traditions and festivities shared among many in Singapore.
New Year Celebrations
In Singapore, the beginning of the year is marked by two significant events that reflect the island nation’s cultural diversity: New Year’s Day and Chinese New Year, each celebrated with their unique customs and traditions.
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, which falls on 1 January 2024, is a public holiday in Singapore. The day is observed with social gatherings and fireworks displays as residents of the country mark the start of a new calendar year.
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year commemorates the beginning of the lunar year and is one of Singapore’s most eagerly awaited holidays. The Dragon ushers in the new year with festivities beginning on 10 February 2024, and continuing through to the second day on 11 February 2024. During this period, many businesses close shop as the nation engages in two days of cultural celebrations which include family reunions, giving of red packets, and lion dance performances.
Lunar New Year’s Day
Lunar New Year’s Day is the first day of the Chinese New Year celebrations. On this day, Singaporeans pay visits to relatives and friends, exchange gifts, and participate in traditional meals. The streets are often adorned with red decorations, symbolising good fortune and joy, and numerous events throughout the city cater to the uplifted festive spirit.
Ethnic and Religious Observances
Singapore’s public holidays in 2024 reflect the country’s cultural diversity, with days set aside to honour various ethnic and religious groups. These holidays offer a glimpse into the rich traditions and beliefs that are an integral part of Singapore’s societal fabric.
Good Friday
Good Friday is on 29 March 2024 and will be observed by the Christian community in Singapore, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. This solemn holiday serves as a day of reflection and worship.
Hari Raya Puasa
Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a time of joyous celebration and a perfect opportunity for Muslims in Singapore to gather with family and visit friends, sharing festive meals and seeking forgiveness.
Vesak Day
Vesak Day is a significant day for Buddhists, honouring the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. It is a day of joy and peace, with various activities such as giving, meditation, and vegetarian meals.
Hari Raya Haji
Hari Raya Haji, or the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In Singapore, the day is marked by prayers, and some Muslims perform the sacrificial slaughter of livestock.
Deepavali
Deepavali, known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by the Hindu community. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Homes are decorated with lamps, and families come together to share in the festivities.
National Pride Days
Singapore celebrates several significant days that foster national spirit and celebrate the nation’s unity, multicultural heritage, and defence.
National Day
National Day, commemorated on the 9th of August, marks Singapore’s independence from Malaysia in 1965. It is a day of patriotic celebration where Singaporeans gather to watch parades, fireworks, and performances that reflect the nation’s strength and resilience.
Total Defence Day
Observed on the 15th of February, Total Defence Day serves as a reminder of the surrender of Singapore to the Japanese during World War II. The day is an ideal opportunity to reflect on the importance of national defence across different aspects – military, civil, economic, social, and psychological.
Racial Harmony Day
Racial Harmony Day is celebrated on the 21st of July to commemorate the 1964 race riots. On this day, schools and community groups participate in activities that promote understanding and appreciation of Singapore’s rich cultural diversity.
Singapore Armed Forces Day
Celebrated on the 1st of July, Singapore Armed Forces Day honours the contributions of the armed forces. Ceremonies and community engagements take place to show appreciation to past and present members of the military for their dedication to the nation’s security.
Seasonal Festivities
In Singapore, the year 2024 brings vivid celebrations that notably include Christmas and Thaipusam, unfolding through distinct cultural observances.
Christmas Celebrations
Singaporeans warmly embrace Christmas even in a tropical climate, with festivities revolving around Christmas Day on 25 December. Decorated malls and streets with twinkling lights herald the season, while Christmas markets offer festive goods. Christmas Eve, the 24th, is observed with anticipation, featuring night services and gatherings leading up to the holiday.
Thaipusam
Thaipusam, a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, is celebrated with devotion on the 1st of February in 2024. Devotees perform ritualistic acts of penance, including the carrying of kavadis—a physical burden through which they seek blessings and fulfill vows. The procession is a profound display of faith, witnessed by spectators along the routes in Singapore.
Workplace Rights and Obligations
In Singapore, employers and employees must both understand their rights and obligations regarding Labour Day, Salary, and Time-Off-In-Lieu for 2024. These factors are governed by employment regulations that support both parties in maintaining a fair workplace.
Labour Day
Labour Day, celebrated on the 1st of May, is one of the 11 paid public holidays for all eligible employees in Singapore. This includes workmen and non-workmen, managers, and executives, as long as they are covered by the Employment Act. Employers are required to grant this holiday, and any work done on this day must be compensated according to public holiday rates as stipulated by the act.
Salary
Employees’ salaries are regulated under the Employment Act, which outlines that all workmen earning up to SGD 4,500 and non-workmen earning up to SGD 2,600 must be paid at least once a month within 7 days after the end of the salary period. Beyond just the base wage, the salary also includes allowances and payments for overtime. For work on public holidays such as Labour Day, employees are entitled to an extra day’s salary at the basic rate of pay.
Time-Off-In-Lieu
Should employees be required to work on a public holiday, the Employment Act provides for either an extra day’s salary or a substitute holiday (time-off-in-lieu). Employers and employees can mutually agree on this arrangement where the employee takes another day off on a mutually agreed date within a stipulated period. This gives employees flexibility and ensures they do not lose out on entitled rest days.
Special Occasions
In Singapore, special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Teachers’ Day, and Children’s Day provide opportunities for reflection and celebration of indispensable roles in society.
Mother’s Day
Third Sunday of May
Often includes:
- Gifts: Flowers, chocolates, and personalised presents.
- Dining: Family meals at popular restaurants.
Father’s Day
Third Sunday of June
Typical celebrations:
- Activities: Family outings and recreational sports.
- Appreciation: Cards and gifts expressing gratitude.
Teachers’ Day
Last Friday of September
Marked by:
- School events: Performances and award ceremonies.
- Gifts: Handmade cards and tokens of appreciation from students.
Children’s Day
First Friday of October
Characterised by:
- School activities: Games, performances, and no homework.
- Gifts for children: Toys, books, and sweets.
Public Holiday Dates and Changes
In 2024, Singapore will observe 11 gazetted public holidays. The Ministry of Manpower has confirmed these dates, and changes or updates are issued by them as necessary. Employees under the Employment Act are entitled to these paid holidays.
New Year’s Day will fall on Monday, 1 January 2024. As for Chinese New Year, the celebrations begin on Sunday, 11 February, with the following Monday, 12 February, designated as a public holiday.
Table Summary of Key Public Holidays:
Holiday Date Day of the Week New Year’s Day 1 Jan Monday Chinese New Year 12 Feb Monday Good Friday 29 Mar Friday Labour Day 1 May Wednesday Hari Raya Puasa TBD* TBD National Day 9 Aug Friday
Note: *The date for Hari Raya Puasa is subject to confirmation as it depends on the lunar calendar.
If any public holiday falls on a Sunday, employees will get the following Monday off as a replacement, ensuring the entitlement to a day off remains unaffected.
Employers and workers should regularly check for official changes to public holiday dates through the Ministry of Manpower’s announcements. These holidays provide individuals with rest and the opportunity to take part in cultural and national celebrations across the country.
For any official amendments that may arise, they will be communicated, allowing ample time for both employers and workers to make necessary arrangements.
Observance Periods
Singapore honours various cultural and religious periods throughout the year. Among these, the start of Ramadan and the Easter period are significant for their respective communities.
Ramadan Start
Ramadan begins on the evening of 10 March and continues until the evening of 8 April, marking a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for the Muslim community. This period culminates with Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast.
Easter Period
The Easter period includes Good Friday on 29 March, Easter Saturday on 30 March, and Easter Sunday on 31 March. Easter is a significant Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Cultural and International Days
Within Singapore’s diverse cultural landscape, several international days are also observed, celebrating love, women’s empowerment, and cultural heritage globally.
Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day on 14 February marks a celebration of love and affection between intimate companions. In Singapore, it is celebrated with the exchange of gifts, such as flowers and chocolates, and by spending time with loved ones. Romantic dinners and gestures of appreciation are common ways Singaporeans partake in this day.
International Women’s Day
Celebrated on 8 March, International Women’s Day recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Events around this day often focus on advocating for women’s rights and gender equality. From corporate functions to public seminars, discussions centre on progress in women’s empowerment and the challenges that persist.
International Museum Day
On 18 May, International Museum Day is observed to promote the role of museums in cultural exchange and development. Museums across Singapore often provide free admission or special events to encourage public participation. This day highlights the importance of museums in preserving historical artefacts and educating the public about domestic and global cultures.
Equinoxes and Solstices
In Singapore, the equinoxes and solstices of 2024 are significant as they mark the transitions of the solar terms, guiding various aspects of life such as agriculture and festivals and form part of the rich tapestry of Singaporean life.
March Equinox
The March Equinox will occur on 20 March 2024, heralding the arrival of spring. It is the moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in nearly equal day and night duration.
June Solstice
On 21 June 2024, the June Solstice signifies the start of summer. It is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, with the sun reaching its highest position in the sky.
September Equinox
The September Equinox, falling on 22 September 2024, marks the commencement of autumn. This event is characterised by the sun once again crossing the celestial equator, leading to day and night of approximately equal length.
December Solstice
Finally, the December Solstice is set for 21 December 2024. This date signals the onset of winter and is the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, as the sun achieves its lowest zenith.
Singapore Public Holidays 2024: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the public holidays for 2024 in Singapore present numerous opportunities for residents to plan exciting vacations and enjoy well-deserved breaks. With several holidays falling on days close to the weekend, like Good Friday on 29 March 2024, and the second day of Chinese New Year on a Saturday, the calendar is favourably aligned for extended leisure time. These public holidays and long weekends not only offer a chance to relax and recharge but also provide a perfect setting for cultural celebrations and family gatherings. As we look forward to the holidays in 2024, it’s an ideal time to start envisioning and planning for those special days off, turning them into memorable and rejuvenating experiences.
