River Hongbao is an annual Chinese New Year Event that is hosted at Gardens by the bay. It used to be at the Floating Platform but it shifted to Gardens By the Bay in recent years. Personally, it feels like it has lost it’s touch?
This event lasts from 15 Feb to 24 Feb 2026. It’s a relatively short event but a good place to enjoy the Chinese New Year vibe. There are fireworks, performances and lantern displays but those events meant large crowd that I generally avoid. I went on an afternoon (during day 2) and there was no fireworks and performances.
The rides are a tad expensive. Most rides cost $8 on average with some rides like carousel costing $10. I have 2 kids and accompanying adults are an additional cost. So 1 ride could cost me $20-$30. It feels too expensive for a 5min ride.
The food is very expensive. It costs so much that the nearby Jurassic Hall feels affordable (Although it’s also expensive).
Overall, as I choose to come during the “off-peak” periods, there are significantly fewer things to do. But the crowd is much more manageable compared to nighttime. I think it’s a good place to come after your meal, and scroll through the place. The food and entertainment are simply too expensive. There is no need to spend money here.
Just come here after lunch, take some photos and go else where
Life is Sinple 