Learn About Hari Raya In Singapore

Travellers looking at making their way to Singapore in June and July this year can look forward to experiencing the annual Hari Raya Puasa festival.

Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Singapore Infopedia shares that “It is a time of forgiveness within the Muslim community and a time for strengthening of bonds amongst relatives and friends. New clothes, decorated houses and exchange of invitations between friends and relatives commemorate Hari Raya Puasa.”

Beginning yesterday (27 June) for an entire month, the Geylang Serai neighbourhood has been dressed up in bright and colourful lights for the annual Hari Raya Light Up 2014.

This year, the theme revolves around elements of the Malay Kampung (traditional Malay houses) and the lifestyles of the people who live there. The theme incorporates items such as gable roofs, floral and plant motifs and basketry weaves.

The Light-Up design also features the symbol of Islam which is synonymous to the celebration, and is inspired by the architectural style of mosques such as the multi-tiered pyramids and Turkish style minarets.

In addition to the Light Up, members of the public can also join activities where they can learn about the Malay culture through events such as Dikir Barat, discover the religious significance of the celebration through Qasidah (Arabic poetry readings) as well as partake of a Cultural Dance Showcase.

Happening on 12 July, Dikir Barat is a performance in Malay about life, education and histories delivered through in a poetic way.

Visitors can also sample traditional Malay games such as Gasing (Tops), Batu Serembat (five stones), layang layang & wau bulan (traditional kite originally from Kelantan Malaysia), Congkak, Sepak Takraw, Chapteh & Goli (Marbles) on 12 July.

Join the crowd for a walk down nostalgia lane with 2 “black & white” movie screenings taking place on 18 and 25 July.

Visitors can refer to the Hari Raya Light Up 2014 for a listing of the events and activities taking place throughout the month.

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