The numerous festivals in Malacca are a vivid evidence of the presence of diverse religious and racial communities in the city. Malacca boasts of an affluent cultural heritage that is reflected in the celebration of its various festivals throughout the year. A tour to Malacca is definitely more enjoyable during the time of festivals when the entire city gathers in unison to celebrate the festivities with gaiety.
The most famous and commonly celebrated festival across Malacca is the Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) that is observed by the Chinese community to mark the arrival of the lunar New Year. During this time, people exchange "angpows" or red color packets containing cash gifts with friends/loved ones. The 'angpows' are meant to be symbols of prosperity. Lion dances take place to fight against evil spirits and family reunion dinners are enjoyed with delight on the New Year eve.
Another prominent festival in Malacca celebrated by the Fukien community is the Birthday of Teenh Koong that takes place on the eve of the ninth day of the first lunar month. This event is observed in honor of the Jade Emperor or the Deity of Heaven when numerous thanksgiving gifts as a tribute to the Lord's blessings are placed at the main door of a Chinese home on an elevated altar. The 15 days of the Chinese New Year successfully come to an end by the celebration of Chap Go Mei in Malacca. The festival that takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month is celebrated by unmarried Chinese women who wish for a suitable match by throwing oranges into the sea.
On Thaipusam (early Feb), the Hindus in Malacca pay their revered tributes to Lord Muruga. The devotees gather in large numbers at the temple and carry semi-circular wooden arches with skewers pierced through their skin. This is believed to rid the pilgrims of all their sins. Some of the other famous festivals celebrated in Malacca are Melaka Tourism Week (2nd week of March), Palm Sunday (March/April), Nuzul Quran (mid-April), Sant Sohan Singh's Prayer Anniversary (last week in May) and Malacca Carnival.
Singapore Thailand Malaysia offers online information on Festivals in Malacca and booking for tour packages to Malacca, Malaysia. For more information, or to book your tour, please fill up the form below.
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