There are Chinatowns all over the world but none is like Singapore's when it comes to celebrating Chinese New Year. To usher in the year of the dragon, Chinatown will be decked with bright auspicious decorations, and there will be an array of exciting performances and activities to look forward to.

One of the highlights to look out for is the international lion dance competition. You may have seen a lion dance performance on television, but how about watching it live and up-close? Well, here’s your chance to watch fiery-spirited professionals performing this traditional Chinese dance, right in the heart of Chinatown.

As you explore Chinatown, check out the dragon-themed decorations that have been put up. If you’d like to view Chinatown in its full dazzle, it’s best to head down in the evenings when the decorations are lighted up.

If there's one event not to be missed, it's the firing of firecrackers at the official light-up and opening ceremony of Singapore’s Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations. Expect a loud and thrilling experience as firecrackers have traditionally been set off to mark the start of Chinese New Year. What’s more, this is the only time of the year when you can see firecrackers being set off.

To add to the festivities, there will also be other notable fringe events happening during the entire 2012 Chinese New Year celebration. Some of these events which you wouldn’t want to miss are the Countdown Party, Yuan Xiao Jie Celebrations, Festive Street Bazaar and Nightly Stage Shows.