When to visit Singapore: weather, monsoon seasons and the festival calendar
Singapore is hot and humid all year, with rain in every month, so there is no bad time to visit, only different trade-offs. The Northeast Monsoon (about December to early March) brings the wettest weeks in December and January and then the driest, breeziest weeks around February; the Southwest Monsoon runs about June to September; and the inter-monsoon periods (about April to May and October to November) bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Many visitors plan around festivals such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, National Day on 9 August and Deepavali.
Last updated 13 November 2026 · 🏙️ Places rankings →
The climate in brief
Singapore sits just north of the equator, so temperatures change little through the year: warm days, warm nights and high humidity. Rainfall comes in short heavy showers and thunderstorms rather than all-day drizzle in most months. The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) publishes forecasts, rain radar and seasonal outlooks on weather.gov.sg and the myENV app.
Season by season
| Period (approx.) | Season | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| December to early March | Northeast Monsoon | Wet phase with prolonged rain in December and January; a drier, windier phase from late January or February |
| March to May | Inter-monsoon | Hot, with afternoon and evening thunderstorms; often the warmest months |
| June to September | Southwest Monsoon | Relatively drier; early-morning "Sumatra squalls" can bring short, intense storms; occasional haze |
| October to November | Inter-monsoon | Frequent afternoon thunderstorms with lightning |
For outdoor plans such as parks and gardens, nature trails or the islands, start early in the morning and keep the afternoon flexible.
Haze
In some years, smoke from land and forest fires in the region drifts over Singapore, most often between about June and October. NEA publishes the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and health advisories; check them if you have respiratory conditions or plan strenuous outdoor activity.
Festival calendar
Several major festivals follow the lunar or Islamic calendars, so their dates move each year.
- Chinese New Year (January or February): Chinatown light-up and street bazaar, River Hongbao and the Chingay Parade. Some shops and hawker stalls close for a few days.
- Thaipusam (January or February): a Hindu procession from Little India area temples.
- Hari Raya Puasa (date set by the Islamic calendar): Geylang Serai bazaar during Ramadan and light-ups.
- Vesak Day (usually May).
- National Day (9 August): the National Day Parade and fireworks around Marina Bay, with rehearsals in the weeks before.
- Hungry Ghost Festival (seventh lunar month, usually August or September) and the Mid-Autumn Festival with lanterns and mooncakes.
- Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, a night race around Marina Bay, usually in September or October.
- Deepavali (October or November): Little India street light-up.
- Christmas: Orchard Road light-up from about mid-November.
See our festivals page and check exact dates on Visit Singapore.
FAQ
What is the best month to visit Singapore?
February to April is often cited because the late Northeast Monsoon tends to be drier and breezier, but Singapore has rain and heat all year. Choose by festival or budget rather than weather alone.
What is the rainiest month in Singapore?
November to January are typically among the wettest months, at the end of the inter-monsoon and the wet phase of the Northeast Monsoon. Check weather.gov.sg for the current seasonal outlook.
Is Singapore expensive during the F1 race?
Hotel rates around Marina Bay and the city centre usually rise during Grand Prix week and some roads close for the circuit. Book early or stay outside the city centre.
Does Singapore close for Chinese New Year?
Not entirely. Malls, attractions and transport run, but many small shops, hawker stalls and family businesses close for the first two or three days of the festival.
Related rankings
- Top 2 festivals & events in Singapore
- Top 7 parks & gardens in Singapore
- Top 4 islands & beaches in Singapore
- Top 3 attractions in Singapore
Sources
Editorial guide by Best Singapore. Not legal, financial or medical advice; check the sources for current rules and figures.