Local Festivals
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year marks the first day of the lunar calendar, and lasts for 15 days. Traditions tied to the festival include bonding with family over reunion dinner, and giving red envelopes ('ang pao') to unmarried family members. Lion and dragon dances are performed in major malls and temples in the days leading up to the festival.
Thaipusam
Thaipusam is a yearly Hindu festival, celebrated with a colourful procession that mainly takes place at the Batu Caves. Celebrated by the country's Indian community, devotees prepare themselves by piercing hooks through their bodies to show their devotion to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is celebrated by Muslims in Malaysia, and focuses on forgiveness, fellowship and food. It marks the end of the fasting month. Shopping malls are colourfully decorated fairy lights, ketupat-shaped ornaments and Arabian themed markets.
Deepavali
Deepavali is the biggest festival for Indian communities in Malaysia. Also known as the Festival of Lights, many venues are decorated with an array of colourful lights, oil lamps, flowers and intricate floor designs that are made with coloured rice and powder.
Christmas
A month before Christmas, Kuala Lumpur's streets are lined with bright lights, while shopping malls put out their most elaborate Christmas decorations. Partake in fun-filled festive activities to lift your Christmas spirit.
