Five Footway Festival Returns, Promising Nine Days of Chinatown Nostalgia

Highly anticipated Five Footway Festival returns to Chinatown Singapore from March 9th to 17th, 2024. Organized by the Chinatown Business Association in collaboration with various partners, this festival promises a delightful array of activities for visitors of all ages, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of one of Singapore’s most iconic districts.

A Journey Through Chinatown’s History

The festival offers a unique opportunity to delve into the storied past of Chinatown, with activities that bring to life the bustling streets of the 1900s. Collaborating with the Sun Yat-Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and students from Hwa Chong Institution, the festival presents an exhibition that explores the history of the Five Footway, clans and associations, and the vibrant stories of Chinatown’s early immigrants. Visitors will gain deeper insights into the way of life, values, and traditions of their forefathers, discovering how the Five Footway served as the heart of community life across various trades and cultural activities.

Explore Chinatown’s Architectural Treasures

For those interested in architecture and heritage conservation, the festival offers the opportunity to join the Conserved Buildings in Chinatown walking trail. Led by Do It SG, participants will learn about the conservation efforts behind Chinatown’s historic buildings and the activities that once lined its Five Footways.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Prepare to be enthralled by captivating theatrical performances along Smith Street, formerly known as Theatre Street or Hei Yuen Kai. From Cantonese opera to Teochew opera and Peking opera, visitors will be treated to rich cultural displays that harken back to Chinatown’s vibrant past. Workshops and classes will also be available for those eager to learn traditional skills, such as creating personalized idiom coloring books or mastering the art of Peking Opera.

Culinary Delights and Traditional Dishes

No festival is complete without indulging in delicious food, and the Five Footway Festival is no exception. Explore the rich heritage of Hakka cuisine, attend traditional cooking classes, and learn the art of making Put Chai Ko, a Cantonese dessert. From Hakka rice wine to Hainanese-style pineapple stir-fry pork rind, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families with children are in for a treat with a variety of nostalgic childhood games, including can and ring toss, hoop wheeling, and snakes and ladders, all set up along Pagoda Street. And what’s a festival without snacks? Munch on traditional Singaporean treats while enjoying stilt walking Samsui women and khaki shorts policemen, perfect for capturing memorable photo opportunities.

Admission and Workshop Tickets

Best of all, admission to the Five Footway Festival is free! However, tickets for selected workshops can be purchased online for those looking to dive deeper into Chinatown’s cultural heritage.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of Chinatown’s past at the Five Footway Festival. Mark your calendars and join in the celebration of Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry.