5 Dreamy Destinations to Celebrate Imlek in 2025

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Celebrate Imlek – Imlek, or Chinese New Year, is a time to reconnect with family, celebrate tradition, and of course, indulge in all the delicious food that comes with it. But if you’re someone who’s looking to step up your celebration and make it a little extra special this year, why not head to one of the world’s most vibrant destinations? Whether you’re keen on experiencing authentic cultural festivities or just want to immerse yourself in the fireworks and feasts, here are five dreamy destinations where you can ring in Imlek in 2025.

Celebrate Imlek
Celebrate Imlek

5 Dreamy Destinations to Celebrate Imlek in 2025

1. Singapore: A Festive Wonderland

Singapore is one of those places where the fusion of tradition and modernity comes together in the most magical ways. If you’ve ever been to the city-state, you’ll know that it’s already a spectacle on a regular day, but during Imlek, it’s downright enchanting.

Chinatown lights up with red lanterns, and the streets are lined with stalls offering everything from auspicious decorations to delicious snacks like bak kwa (barbecued meat) and pineapple tarts. It’s a feast for the senses, and trust me, you’ll want to snap a few pictures because it feels like stepping into a movie scene.

One of the highlights of celebrating Imlek in Singapore is the Chinatown Street Light-Up, which runs for weeks leading up to the holiday. The main event is the River Hongbao, a stunning outdoor exhibition showcasing Chinese culture with performances, giant lantern displays, and even a giant zodiac-themed fireworks display to ring in the new year. You could easily spend days exploring, but don’t forget to check out the giant red lanterns that get strung up all over the place—it’s like a beautiful sea of red that’s hard to forget.

2. Hong Kong: A Dazzling Celebration

If there’s one place that knows how to throw a party, it’s Hong Kong. Celebrating Imlek here is like being in the center of the world’s most incredible fireworks show. The energy is unmatched. This city does everything big—from the dragon dances in the streets to the grand parades that seem to go on forever.

I had the chance to celebrate Imlek in Hong Kong a few years ago, and let me tell you, it was a whirlwind. The best part? The Hong Kong Chinese New Year Parade, where you’ll see floats, acrobats, and the famous lion and dragon dances. And don’t get me started on the fireworks over Victoria Harbour—absolutely breathtaking.

If you’re a foodie, you’re going to love the food stalls that pop up all around the city, selling everything from sticky rice dumplings to sweet egg tarts. I recommend grabbing a seat by the water to enjoy the view while snacking on something warm. Trust me, the energy, the food, and the colors will have you feeling like you’re living in a celebration all year long.

3. Taipei, Taiwan: Where Tradition Meets Fun

Taipei is one of those cities that just feels like home when you visit. I’ve had the pleasure of celebrating Imlek here, and I swear the whole city seems to glow with good fortune during the festivities. Whether you’re wandering through night markets or soaking in the rich cultural heritage, Taipei offers a truly authentic Chinese New Year experience.

The Lantern Festival, which takes place just after the new year, is a must-see. The sky lights up with thousands of lanterns, and it’s an experience unlike any other. There’s something magical about writing your wishes on a lantern and watching it float away into the night sky, and it’s something I highly recommend if you’re there during Imlek.

Another reason to visit Taipei during Imlek is the food. From the famous Taiwanese beef noodle soup to the more festive goodies like dumplings and rice cakes, you’ll definitely want to come hungry. And don’t forget to pop by the temples where people flock to pray for good luck in the coming year.

4. Jakarta, Indonesia: A Blend of Cultures

I know, Indonesia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Imlek celebrations, but Jakarta does it so beautifully. The city’s Chinese New Year festivities are a vibrant blend of traditional Chinese customs mixed with the rich Indonesian culture. You’ll find colorful parades, lion dances, and street markets selling Chinese snacks, but there’s also a uniquely Indonesian twist to the celebrations.

The main hub of activity is in Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, where the streets are filled with crowds celebrating the new year. Traditional Chinese opera performances, dance troupes, and musical acts are all part of the festivities, and it’s easy to get lost in the atmosphere. One of my favorite things to do is visit the local markets during Imlek; the streets are lined with red decorations, and there’s so much to see and do. Plus, the food—Indonesian Chinese food is seriously underrated.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, make sure to visit the local temples and shrines, where people light incense and make offerings for good fortune. It’s a peaceful way to reflect and immerse yourself in the spirit of the holiday.

5. Bangkok, Thailand: A City Full of Color

Bangkok’s Chinese New Year celebrations are something else. The streets of Chinatown (Yaowarat) come alive with vibrant decorations, incredible food, and energetic performances. I had the chance to witness this firsthand, and I was blown away by how festive everything felt—almost like the entire city was wrapped in a red-and-gold ribbon.

The grand parade is one of the best parts. Expect to see lion dances, dragon dances, and even Thai-Chinese opera performances as they make their way through the streets. The food in Bangkok’s Chinatown is some of the best you’ll find anywhere—whether you’re craving dim sum, noodles, or traditional sweets, you’ll find something delicious at every corner.

For a more peaceful experience, check out the temples around the city, where you can make offerings and pray for blessings. The atmosphere during Imlek is both celebratory and reflective, which makes it such a unique experience. And if you want to keep the party going, Bangkok is never short of places to explore—there’s always something new just around the corner.

 

Whether you’re looking for grand parades, intimate temple visits, or a deep dive into local culture, these five destinations offer something truly special to celebrate Imlek in 2025. Whether you’re looking for vibrant street festivals or reflective moments of peace, these places will make your Chinese New Year unforgettable. Trust me, it’s one celebration you won’t want to miss—just make sure to bring your appetite and your camera!

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