For the first time in Singapore, art from the impressionist, post-impressionist and art nouveau eras are on loan from the renowned Musée d’Orsay. 140 works of art by Paul Cezanne, Vincent van Gogh, Alexandre Cabanel and many other famed artists form the body of this magnificent exhibition. This is truly an experience for art lovers that is not to be missed.

Where to go: National Museum of Singapore

The Elephant Parade was set up when father and son Marc and Mike Spits found out about Mosha, a baby Thai elephant, losing a leg to a landmine. Its mission is still to become the world’s largest financial support organisation for Asian elephants. Head down to the Botanic Gardens to see over a hundred painted elephants statues and show your support for these beautiful animals.

Where to go: Bukit Timah Core, Singapore Botanic Gardens

In this melding of science and art, Song Dynasty masterpiece Qing Ming Shang He Tu (Along the River During the Qingming Festival) comes alive on a 128 metres by 6.5 metres screen. This depiction of Song Dynasty daily life by Chinese imperial court artist Zhang Ze Duan is magnified 30 times its original size, and over a thousand characters in the painting are animated into life. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture by sampling food and beverages inspired by the Song Dynasty in the Post-Show Hall.

Where to go: Singapore Expo

Singapore gears up to usher in the year of the Dragon with a bang. Head down to Chinatown to check out the auspicious dragon-themed decorations and street stalls selling all manner of festive goodies. Don’t miss the international lion dance competition or the setting off of firecrackers at the light-up and opening ceremony on January 1st!

Where to go: Chinatown

Back for the 19th edition, Spring in the City is an annual themed festival that showcases traditional Chinese culture and its artistic heritage. This year it focuses on culture, art and travel and visitors to the festival can expect to see over a hundred craftsmen and 300 performance troupes displaying their skills over this 48-day long event.

Where to go: Vivocity, Raffles City Shopping Mall

Art Stage Singapore is back for its second edition. An opportunity for art galleries, artists, collectors and professionals to come together and discover the best of Asian art, 2010’s exhibition saw the likes of Takashi Murakami, David LaChapelle, Shen Shaomin, Angus Suwage and Yoshimoto Nara in attendance. Apart from the art exhibition, there will also be a series of lectures and various fringe programmes and art-centred activities at the event.

Where to go: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre

More Chinese New Year celebrations abound at the River Hongbao, this time against the glittering backdrop of the Marina Bay skyline. Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes that the Guangxi province has to offer. Also on display are 70 huge handcrafted lanterns, made by masters from Chengdu, that form the shape of a dragon.

Where to go: The Float@Marina Bay

Celebrate as spring brings a multitude of beautiful flowers back to life. Now in its sixth year, Sentosa Flowers shows you some of the rarest and most unique spring blooms in a riot of colours that is certain to have you reaching for your cameras. From lollipop trees to giant flowers, the Sentosa Flowers festival is ready to wow you.

Where to go: Imbiah Lookout, Sentosa

The children haven’t been forgotten amidst the excitement of Chinese New Year. This year’s KidsFest! presents live theatre adaptations of three bestselling children’s picture books: The Tiger Who Came to Tea, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Stick Man. Bring your children down to enjoy an afternoon of music and adventure.

Where to go: DBS Arts Centre