Annual light-up marks the start of festive celebrations with new attractions and community support
As evening descended on Orchard Road, Singapore’s iconic shopping district was transformed into a festive wonderland, marking the beginning of the holiday season with the official lighting of the Christmas displays. This annual tradition, now in its 41st edition, was launched on November 9 by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli.
The 2024 Christmas On A Great Street light-up stretches for 3.1 kilometers and features glittering arches and a towering 14-meter Christmas tree at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. The festivities, expected to attract between four and five million visitors, are set to run nightly at 6.30 pm until January 1. This year’s theme, “Firefly Garden,” combines traditional Christmas lights with a whimsical garden setting, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike.
The event is also a fundraiser, with the Community Chest unveiling its Sharity Reimagined exhibition. Over 30 local personalities, including badminton player Loh Kean Yew and football icon Fandi Ahmad, painted personalized figurines to support social causes. These figurines will be displayed at Ion Orchard from November 10-17, and visitors can contribute through donations.
In addition to the dazzling light displays, the Great Christmas Eve Street Party and two Great Christmas Villages are highlights. The first village at Ngee Ann City will feature nightly snow shows, while the second at Shaw House Urban Plaza offers carnival rides and games. These attractions, alongside food trucks and live performances, promise a fun-filled holiday experience for all.
