Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! As Singapore's Muslim community prepares to celebrate the end of Ramadan, the whole island is getting into the festive spirit. From dazzling bazaars to mouthwatering kueh and ketupat, here's your guide to making the most of Hari Raya 2026 in Singapore.
Geylang Serai Bazaar: The Star of the Season
No Hari Raya season is complete without a visit to the iconic Geylang Serai Bazaar. Running through the festive period, this sprawling market is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Think rows upon rows of stalls selling everything from traditional Malay kuih to trendy fusion snacks, gorgeous baju kurung and kebaya, and sparkling home decorations.
This year's bazaar has stepped things up with more curated zones. There's a dedicated food street featuring both old-school favourites and new vendors, a fashion and lifestyle section showcasing local Malay designers, and a family-friendly zone with craft workshops where kids (and adults) can learn to weave ketupat casings.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday evening if you want to avoid the weekend crush. The atmosphere is still buzzing, but you'll actually be able to browse without being carried along by the crowd.
Festive Food You Cannot Miss
Hari Raya is, let's be honest, a food lover's paradise. Whether you're visiting friends and family or just treating yourself, here are the must-try dishes this season:
Ketupat and Rendang
The classic combination that anchors every Hari Raya table. Compressed rice cakes paired with rich, slow-cooked beef or chicken rendang — it's comfort food elevated to an art form. Many home cooks start preparing their rendang days in advance to let the flavours develop.
Lontong
This beloved dish of rice cakes in a coconut milk-based vegetable stew is a Hari Raya staple. Topped with sambal, serundeng (spiced grated coconut), and a hard-boiled egg, it's a symphony of textures and flavours that you'll want seconds of.
Kueh and Sweet Treats
From pineapple tarts to kueh bangkit, kueh makmur, and the ever-popular ondeh ondeh, Hari Raya cookies and kueh are serious business. Many families have recipes passed down through generations, and the friendly rivalry over whose pineapple tarts are best is part of the fun.
Cultural Activities and Craft Workshops
Beyond the food, Hari Raya is a wonderful time to immerse yourself in Malay culture. Several community centres and cultural institutions are running special programmes this season.
The Malay Heritage Centre in Kampong Glam has organised guided walks exploring the history of Hari Raya traditions in Singapore. You'll learn about the significance of various customs, from the wearing of new clothes to the practice of visiting elders to seek forgiveness.
For hands-on experiences, look out for ketupat-weaving workshops at various community clubs across the island. It's trickier than it looks — transforming a flat coconut leaf strip into a diamond-shaped casing requires patience and skill — but the satisfaction of completing one is genuinely rewarding.
Visiting Etiquette: A Quick Refresher
Planning to visit friends or colleagues during Hari Raya? Here's a quick refresher on etiquette. Always remove your shoes before entering the home. Greet your hosts warmly — a handshake or salam is customary. Don't be shy about trying the food offered; it's a sign of appreciation. And if you're not sure about something, just ask. Most hosts are delighted to share the significance of various traditions.
Green packets, or sampul duit raya, are given to children and sometimes to unmarried young adults. It's a lovely tradition that spreads joy throughout the community.
Embrace the Festivities
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is one of Singapore's most vibrant celebrations, and it's a beautiful reminder of the multicultural fabric that makes this nation special. Whether you're part of the Muslim community or simply a curious Singaporean wanting to join in, there's something for everyone this festive season. So put on your best outfit, bring your appetite, and soak in the warmth of Hari Raya 2026.
