By Expedia Singapore, on January 10, 2019

Singapore 2019 Public Holidays List + Long Weekends Calendar

2019 is here and we’re making resolutions for the new year ahead. Step 1, get organized. Step 2, stop procrastinating. Step 3, go for it and make the most of the Singapore public holidays!

The key to endurance is to take breaks and enjoy life in the present too. So if your dreamy-dreams are filled with travel resolutions like us, then its time to plan your getaways for the year. Small trips, big trips, staycations…it’s all in your hands! Gather the inspiration, pin down where you want to go, and start putting aside the budget NOW.

It’s no secret that wrapping your trips around the Singapore public holidays is a good way to stretch your travel calendar. Faster plan so you can faster chope the good weekends before your colleagues beat you to the annual leave approval! Hah!

Here are the upcoming Singapore public holidays in 2019. There are a total of 11 public holidays. This year, that gives you 4 ready-made long weekends in April, May, August and October. For the rest of the holidays that fall mid-week, use our interactive calendar below or download our free Singapore 2019 long weekend calendar to help you utilize your annual leave the best way. We’ve also picked out some holiday destinations, near and far, that we think would be great for you to visit each of the corresponding months.

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2019 Singapore Public Holidays List

& Where to Travel Over Each Long Weekend

January: New Year’s Day

Public Holiday: Tuesday, 1 January

 + 1 day leave for Long Weekend: Sat – Tues, 29 Dec – 1 Jan

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Rottnest Island in Perth, Australia

Perth, Australia

Of course, the very first public holiday is New Year’s Day. Head to the Foreshore for one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in Perth. The city is known for its never-ending line-up of performances. Food options are aplenty and booze is easily available for you to welcome the new year.

Once the party is over, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Perth by having an extended brunch at their popular cafes or exploring the city on foot. Some popular Perth attractions include Perth Zoo and Fremantle Prison. Make a day trip to Rottnest Island for pristine beaches, cute quokkas, and some water sports.

Cool place to stay: Stay at Aloft Perth for a cosy room near Swan River Foreshore Trail.

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[one_half_last]Halong Bay in Vietnam

Vietnam

You don’t have to go all the way to Europe in search of snow. Sapa is known for its picturesque paddy field but in winter, the town is coated in snow. Fansipan Mountain is still open for climbs. Or if you don’t want to break a sweat, take the cable car.

Hanoi is the gateway to Sa Pa. From Hanoi, you can also venture out and witness the beautiful rock format at the Thien Duong Cave. Or wind down to Ha Long Bay. In the ever-popular Ha Long Bay, January sees fewer tourists so this is a good time to go for a calmer experience in the scenic settings. Some places drop their prices too.

Whichever direction you go, or even just exploring Hanoi, January is a good time as the weather is chilly — which makes the bowl of pho and Vietnamese coffee taste even better!

Cool place to stay: Enjoy the scenic view of Sapa daily when you stay at Victoria Sapa Resort and Spa.

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February: Chinese New Year

Public Holiday: Tues 5 – Wed 6 February

 + 1 day leave for Long Weekend:  Sat – Wed, 2 – 6 Feb

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Views over Paris, France

Paris, France

Paris may be a tad cold in February, but there’s no better city to spend Valentine’s Day in. From dining on the Eiffel Tower to cruising along the Seine at night, Paris is a gorgeous city for any couples. It’s equally great for singles who want to enjoy one of the famous cities in the world and all that life has to offer.

February is the end of the winter season, which means… winter clearance sales! If you are there for Chinese New Year, Paris also has cultural parades with vibrant lion and dragon dances across the city. With fewer tourists, Paris feels less overwhelming in February.

Cool place to stay: For a swanky accommodation in the heart of Paris, check citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon out.

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Mahamuni Pagoda in Mandalay

Mandalay, Myanmar

In Mandalay, head to the Mahamuni Pagoda to witness the grand 2-week-long Full Moon Festival. Locals will flock to Mahamuni Pagoda as part of their annual religious pilgrimage. There are plenty of traditional performances daily, and at night, you can see the pagoda lit up in golden hues.

You can also make a day-trip to Mingun to visit supposedly the largest temple in the world. Otherwise, catch the beautiful sunset over U Bein Bridge, the longest teak bridge in the world.

Cool place to stay: Sakura Princess Hotel pleases many guests with its strategic location and comfortable rooms.

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+ March School Holidays

(Not Public Holiday)

School Holidays: Sat – Sun, 16 March – 24 March

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Panaji in Goa, India

Goa, India 

Goa turns even livelier during Holi Festival. It is Hinduism’s second-largest festival after Deepavali. You will see locals rushing down the street in Goa with coloured powder or wet colour on their hands. Before you know it, your face may be smeared in every colour of the rainbow! But what’s Holi without some colours right?

Goa is also a lovely beach getaway with rustic colonial vibes, especially with the Portuguese architecture like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Fort Aguada.

Cool place to stay: The family-friendly Hyatt Place Goa Candolim Hotel is tucked in the entertainment hub of Goa, but is still far from the noisy crowd at night.

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Boating in Cebu, Philippines

Cebu, Philippines

This is a good season for divers and snorkellers to catch the sardine run as well as whale sharks at Oslob. Escape the peak season rush and enjoy the less hot Cebu weather in March. Chill by the scenic Kawasan Falls with your BFFs or hike Pico Osmeña, also famously known as the Chocolate Hills.

In Cebu, you can also go for some church-hopping from one cathedral to another. Honestly, there are just so many things to see in Cebu!

Cool place to stay: If you are looking for a luxury hotel close to all the top Cebu attractions, Radisson Blu Cebu is the perfect place to go.

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April: Good Friday

Public Holiday: Friday, 19 April

Long Weekend: Fri – Sun, 19 – 21 April

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Shoren In Temple, Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a hot spot for tourists and locals alike during the spring season. The whole town turns into a blend of pink and white hues as the cherry blossoms bloom to their fullest. Tourists flock Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines to capture the beauty while the locals enjoy themselves with a picnic under the sakura tree. Of course, you cannot miss out the favourites such as Fushimi Inari-taisha and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Just make sure to head there early to avoid the crowds.

In fact, if you’re planning to visit any of the cherry blossom viewing cities in Japan, book as early as possible. This is a very popular, and expensive time to visit, so rooms go fast and prices hike.

Cool place to stay: Only 15 minutes away from Kyoto Tower and Higashi Honganji Temple, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto is a cosy haven anyone needs for a good night’s sleep.

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Larantuka Catholics in Indonesia CC-by-NC-N D 2.0/Johanes Randy Prakoso

Larantuka, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Larantuka is a popular religious pilgrimage for Catholics. It is especially popular during Good Friday. The locals celebrate Semana Santa, a Portuguese-influenced religious tradition, throughout the Easter week — with Friday (Sesta Vera) being the peak of the celebration. The parade follows the statue of Christ and Mother Mary being taken from Tuan Menino Chapel to Kuce Beach. The religious procession then continues on the boat.

Cool place to stay: Immerse with the locals and head to Larantuka Beach Apartments for a quiet stay with a fantastic beach view.

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May: Vesak Day

Public Holiday: Sunday, 19 May (*Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is deemed public holiday)

Long Weekend: Sat – Mon, 18 to 20 May

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Acropolis Akropolis in Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece

As the Athens weather starts to warm, the flow of tourists slowly starts coming in. That means you still have a chance to see the iconic Athens attractions without overwhelming crowds. Athens is rich with history and culture, which is very evident from its architectural marvels: Acropolis, Parthenon, Nike Temple and Ancient Agora.

Athens also celebrate International Museum Day on 18 May, which means everyone will get free access to museums and many cultural events. Wine connoisseurs also gather in May to join in the Open Doors’ wine events.

Cool place to stay: Stay at The Stanley for its comfy room and strategic location in the centre of Athens.

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Borobudur in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Vesak celebrations take on a  grand scale in Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta. The ceremony starts with collecting fire at Mrapen Grobogan, an eternal flame source nearby. It then ends three days later as people release lanterns into the night sky.

Yogyakarta has a lot of other things to offer, such as the bustling night market of Malioboro, natural beauty like Wedi Ombo Beach and the Insta-worthy Jomblang Cave.

Cool place to stay: Novotel Yogyakarta is a great hideout close to Malioboro Street but minus the noise.

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June: Hari Raya Puasa

Public Holiday: Wednesday, 5 June

+ June School Holidays:  1 – 30 June

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Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Enjoy the summer weather before the rain hits Seoul in July. If you are looking for something unique, join in the Gangneung Danoje Festival that showcases Korean traditional rituals and folk performances. Visitors can learn more about Korean cultures in the event. Bring your little kids to Lotte World Theme Park for a thrilling ride or the Lotte World Aquarium to see the largest Ocean Ecology Tank in the world.

Cool place to stay: Hotel PJ Myeongdong is popular among shopaholics who want to stay close to the shopping district.

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Scenes of Bali 

Bali, Indonesia

As raya falls in June this year, much of Indonesia will adhere to the“puasa” changes that affect operation hours of many sites and restaurants. But Bali is a Hindu-majority city and therefore still in full swing.  Beach bums will love the hot and dry Bali weather, hitting beaches — both the overrated and the hidden gems — all day long.

If you want to evade from the hordes of tourists, go for dolphin-watching at Lovina Beach or explore Brahmavihara-Arama, Bali’s largest Buddhist temple and monastery with a strong influence of Hinduism. Other tourists’ must-do(s) include cycling in Jatiluwih (Eat Pray Love’s most notable scene), hiking Mount Batur, and taking Insta-worthy photos at Lempuyang Temple, “The Gateway to Heaven”.

Cool place to stay: If you want to be based in Ubud, Komaneka at Rasa Sayang is highly recommended for its tranquil vibe despite its close proximity to the main roads of Ubud.

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July

No Public Holidays, so…DIY Long weekend? 

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Bako National Park in Sarawak

Sarawak, Malaysia

If you’re looking for something interesting to do, that’s unique but not too far away, this is perfect. Unlike the typical concerts, Rainforest World Music Festival is set against the background of the thick lush jungle in Sarawak. The annual music festival attracts throngs of tourists yearly. Besides music, you will also learn about the different tribes and cultures in Borneo and a few other participating countries.

With almost no rain, July is a great time for you to explore the different national parks — Bako National Park, Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park. If you only have the weekend, you can cover the festival and still have time to visit at least one national park.

Read more about RWMF here.

Cool place to stay: Pamper yourself with a cosy room at Pullman Kuching, tucked in the Kuching shopping district.

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August: National Day & Hari Raya Haji

2 Public Holidays: Fri 9 August,  Sun 11 August (*Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is deemed public holiday)

Long Weekend: Fri – Mon, 9 – 12 Aug

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Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA

San Francisco, USA

Cool summer makes August the best time to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods, and the Mission District.

San Francisco is a food paradise with Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf dishing out some of the best local produce and creations. In August, you can have all those San Francisco iconic dishes over the San Francisco Food Festival. For tourists with a soft spot for dogs, you can take this chance to see these four-legged furry friends on a surfer board at the Annual World Dog Surfing Championships.

Cool place to stay: Overlooking the San Francisco Bay, Argonaut Hotel – a Noble House secures a beautiful spot in SF complete with luxurious rooms.

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Flores East Nusa Tenggara, IndonesiaCC BY-NC 2.0/Stewart James

Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Meet the world-renowned Komodo dragon at Komodo National Park. The perfect Flores weather in August also lets you trek around Ruteng or scuba dive with some manta rays and dolphins. Another interesting festival you need to catch in August is the caci dance festival, signifying the unification of men and women. It’s also locally internationally known as the Warrior Dance.

Cool place to stay: Bintan Flores Hotel offers guests the unobstructed view of Labuan Bajo beach 24/7 without fail.

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+ September School Holidays

(Not Public Holiday)

School Holidays: Sat – Sun, 7 – 15 Sept

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Wong Tai Sin Temple, Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Singapore’s Chinatown is brimming with colourful lanterns and decorations during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but why not see how other countries celebrate the occasion? Hong Kong organises massive Lantern Carnivals as well as Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. The festive mood spreads across the entire country! Besides, there is never a wrong time to feast upon dim sum, also known as yum cha.

Cool place to stay: Tucked in the bustling Mongkok area, Dorsett Mongkok is a convenient place to stay to satisfy your dim sum cravings or shopping impulse anytime!

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[one_half_last]Scenes of Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

September is just before the beginning of monsoon season, which marks the beginning of low tourist season. Hop on a water taxi to explore the world’s largest stilt village, Kampong Ayer. Another popular activity in Bandar Seri Begawan is mosque-hopping. When the sky is bright, sign up for a river cruise to see some Proboscis Monkeys or make a day-trip to beaches nearby.

Cool place to stay: The Capital Residence Suites is a comfortable stay right smack in the middle of Bandar Seri Begawan.

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October: Deepavali

Public Holiday: Sunday, 27 October (*Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is deemed public holiday) 

Long Weekend: Sat – Mon, 26 – 28 Oct

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Worshiper in Varanasi, India

Varanasi, India

Visit Varanasi to take part in the country-wide Deepavali or Diwali festival of lights and stay a little longer to participate in the Dev Diwali, 15 days after Diwali. Worshippers dip in the Holy Ganges before lighting up earthen lamps placed on the steps of all the ghats nearby — by night there will be millions of them! Capture the mystifying experience that happens only once a year. Go to the Sarai Mohana village to see the locals weaving silk cloth for sari.

Cool place to stay: Get a taste of Indian heritage by staying at BrijRama Palace located by the bank of Ganges.

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[one_half_last]Attractions in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand

October is the end of the rainy season minus the booming crowd. It s also the celebration month for King Chulalongkorn. On 23 October, the Thais will place flowers around the statues of King Chulalongkorn. Besides temple-hopping, visitors should explore the vibrant night markets in Chiang Mai. You can also go for a day trip to Mae Rim outside Chiang Mai to visit the long-neck Karen Tribe.

Cool place to stay: The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel is what every traveller is looking for: strategic location, friendly service and comfortable rooms without breaking the bank.

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+ November School Holidays

(Not Public Holiday)

Saturday, 23 November onwards

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View of Maldives Islands

Malé, Maldives

Head to the Male, in the Maldives before the peak season kicks in over December. November is the best month because you can get a bit of both worlds: surfing and diving. Even if you are not into water sports, simply hop to other less frequented islands to enjoy the romantic vibes at their overwater bungalows. Tourists’ favourite will be Vaadhoo Island that is famous for its bioluminescence Sea of Stars at night.

Cool place to stay: Maagiri Hotel offers the best of both worlds: amazing sea view and access to the downtown Maldives.

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Attractions in Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap hosts the annual Cambodian Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November. The three-day festival marks the end of monsoon with cultural performances, parades, fireworks, and boat races. At midnight, locals and tourists eat ambok, flattened rice, at temples together. Popular attractions like Angkor Wat and Angkor Night Market are hard to miss as well!

Cool place to stay: Every nook and corner of the Angkor Elysium Suite exudes elegance and top-notch service for guests.

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December: Christmas

Public Holiday: Wednesday, 25 December

 + 2 days leave for a week off 

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Scenes of Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia

Voted as the best Christmas market destination for the past three years, Zagreb lets you experience the magic of Christmas with a huge ice-skating park at Tomislav Square and street vendors selling Christmas food and decorations across the city. Beyond the Christmas atmosphere, Zagreb is a quirky Eastern European town with a blend of old and new. Museum of Broken Relationships located in a baroque palace is just one of the examples.

Cool place to stay: Right smack in the heart of Zagreb, Angel Main Square is the top choice among travellers for its easy access to most tourist attractions there.

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[one_half_last]Attractions in Luang Prabang, Laos CC BY-SA 2.0/Dina Eric

Luang Prabang, Laos

Besides the usual New Year Eve celebration, Luang Prabang also celebrates the Hmong New Year in mid-December. The Hmong are dressed in their best traditional costumes with silver jewellery. You can also see the Hmong courtship ritual called pov vob where young Hmongs find potential partners by throwing cloth balls. Participate in the almsgiving ritual in the morning to experience what the locals do.

Cool place to stay: Luang Prabang View Hotel is a family-friendly luxury resort hidden away from the nightlife crowd in the entertainment district.

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Have fun this year, fellow Singaporeans! Wishing you memorable long weekends and plenty of enjoyable days between!

 


DEALS FOR YOUR 2019 LONG WEEKEND TRIPS

How Much Does it Cost for a Weekend Trip?

Wanna go somewhere else? Get the latest prices for flights-and-hotel bundles to destinations near and far. Follow the links to see deals ready to book on Epedia.com.sg

Use the buttons to search by flight time or holiday theme. See flight + hotel prices for your selected destination. Nip away for a full long weekend trip somewhere less than 2 hours away. Or take a flight under 6 hours to shopping heavens like Tokyo and Hong Kong. Cashing in your annual leave for a longer trip? Check out the deals for destinations that require more than 10 hours of travel time, to visit classic London or discover Prague.

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