As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to start planning your annual leave for 2025. What better way to inspire your travels than by exploring the world’s most captivating events and festivals? From Japan’s cherry blossom season to music festivals close to home, there’s something for everyone. These experiences offer a perfect mix of culture, celebration, and adventure.
So, mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of these global highlights. Read on for seven incredible events to plan your next holiday around, and don’t miss the discounts for SAFRA members!
1. Cherry blossom season, Japan
Late March to early April
When it comes to Japan, few things are as iconic as cherry blossom season. Known as sakura, these delicate pink and white blooms transform the country into a dreamy pastel wonderland. This fleeting season is Japan’s unofficial love letter to nature, attracting travellers from all over the world.
The timing of the blooms varies depending on the region, but in 2025, the peak viewing period is expected to fall between 25 March and 10 April. For unforgettable hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots, head to Hirosaki Castle Park in Aomori, home to the renowned Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, or Takada Castle Site Park in Niigata, which offers magical nighttime illuminations. For that picture-perfect postcard view, Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi combines hanami with a stunning five-storey pagoda and Mount Fuji in the backdrop.
In Tokyo, popular spots include the Rikugien Gardens, an Edo-period landscaped masterpiece, and Nakameguro, where blossoms arch gracefully over a canal, creating a breathtaking pink tunnel.
Agoda has a range of accommodation options across Japan. And here’s the cherry on top – SAFRA members and servicemen (11B) get up to $50 off worldwide stays! For more details, visit safra.sg/promotions/agoda-saf
2. Vivid Sydney, Australia
23 May to 14 June
Thinking about a trip Down Under? Sydney is calling, and there’s no better time to visit than during Vivid Sydney, Australia’s biggest festival of creativity, innovation, and technology. From 23 May to 14 June 2025, the city transforms into a kaleidoscope of lights, music, and ideas, celebrating its 15th year of dazzling the world.
Sydney, with its stunning harbour, iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and vibrant dining scene, is already a dream destination. Add Vivid Sydney to the mix, and you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Imagine wandering through the city as it glows with mesmerising light installations and 3D projections, while live performances by top-notch artists provide the perfect soundtrack to your evening. The festival also offers thought-provoking talks by inspiring speakers and a smorgasbord of food experiences showcasing Sydney’s rich culinary diversity.
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3. Good Vibes Festival, Malaysia
July
For music lovers in Singapore, the Good Vibes Festival is a perfect getaway for a festival experience just across the Causeway. Known for its electrifying atmosphere and stellar line-ups featuring artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Daniel Caesar, DPR IAN, and The Strokes, this annual event is a highlight for music fans in the region. While the 2025 dates haven’t been announced, the festival typically takes place in July.
Past editions have been held in iconic locations like cool Genting Highlands and the sprawling Sepang International Circuit, both easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur. Festival-goers often make KL their base, enjoying the city’s vibrant mix of activities. Whether it’s the immersive Alice Saves Wonderland experience at The Exchange, thrills at Sunway Lagoon, or breathtaking views from the Petronas Twin Towers, there’s plenty to explore.
SAFRA members can save on activities with 5% off overseas bookings on Klook – perfect for adding extra fun to your KL trip. Visit safra.sg/promotions/klook-sg for more details.
4. Mid-Autumn Festival, Hong Kong
6 October
Thinking of experiencing Mid-Autumn Festival in a whole new way? Head to Hong Kong, where the city comes alive with lanterns, mooncakes, and age-old traditions that make this festival unforgettable. It’s a perfect getaway for Singaporeans looking to soak in the festive spirit while exploring the vibrant city.
At the heart of the celebration is the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, a must-see spectacle with over 140 years of history. This tradition began as a way to ward off a plague in 1880 and has evolved into a mesmerising ritual. Picture a 67m-long dragon, glowing with more than 10,000 incense sticks, weaving through the streets of Tai Hang, carried by 300 performers.
Don’t miss the Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnivals and the stunning thematic lantern displays in Tsim Sha Tsui. Add in some moongazing, delicious mooncakes, and Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, and you’ve got the makings of a magical Mid-Autumn getaway.
Book your flights and hotels through Trip.com, where SAFRA members get up to 8% off.
5. Oktoberfest, Germany
20 September to 5 October
If you’ve ticked off every Oktoberfest event in Singapore, why not take things up a notch and experience the real deal in Munich? As the birthplace of Oktoberfest, Munich offers a one-of-a-kind celebration steeped in Bavarian tradition, lively festivities, and, of course, endless beer.
This legendary festival has been going strong since 1810, when it began as a royal wedding celebration. Today, it attracts over six million visitors annually. Expect massive beer tents serving world-class brews, hearty Bavarian fare like pretzels and sausages, and a carnival-like atmosphere complete with amusement rides and live music. Pro tip: book your accommodation and beer tent reservations well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Beyond the beer, Munich has plenty to offer. Visit Marienplatz for its iconic Glockenspiel, explore the sprawling English Garden, or soak in art and history at the Alte Pinakothek museum.
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6. Loy Krathong, Thailand
6 November
Imagine rivers aglow with thousands of floating lights – it’s no wonder Loy Krathong is one of Thailand’s most magical festivals. Held on the full moon of the 12th month in the Thai lunar calendar, this celebration sees locals release small, candlelit boats, or krathongs, made from banana leaves and flowers into rivers, lakes, and canals. Originally a ritual to honour the Goddess of Water, Loy Krathong is now a mesmerising spectacle that draws visitors from all over.
While it’s celebrated across Thailand, iconic destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and Tak offer some of the most dazzling festivities. In Chiang Mai, Loy Krathong coincides with Yi Peng, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky – a truly bucket-list-worthy experience.
Romantic at its core, Loy Krathong is often considered Thailand’s version of Valentine’s Day. Couples launch their krathongs together, making wishes for their love as they drift across the water.
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7. Shilin Residence Tulip Festival, Taiwan
Around February
If you’re planning a floral-inspired trip to Taiwan, the annual Shilin Residence Tulip Festival is a must-visit. Set within the tranquil grounds of Shilin Residence, the festival transforms the park into a romantic paradise, featuring around 130,000 tulips sourced from Japan and the Netherlands. Expect vibrant flower beds paired with creative art installations that enhance the visual spectacle. While the 2025 dates are yet to be announced, the festival typically blooms shortly after the Lunar New Year.
Beyond the tulips, Taipei offers a culinary adventure that’s hard to resist. Wander through night markets to savour iconic street food like fried scallion pancakes, pork pepper buns, and Taiwanese fried chicken. These local treats are a perfect way to round off your visit after soaking in the beauty of the tulip festival.
Need more holiday ideas? Here are 6 destinations that movie and TV fans should plan their next trip to!
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