PENANG is set to come alive with more than 30 festive activities in conjunction with Chinese New Year 2026, as the state rolls out a comprehensive calendar of cultural, religious and tourism-driven events across both the island and Seberang Perai.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the festive atmosphere is already being felt statewide, with decorations, lanterns and themed installations adding to the anticipation ahead of the Spring Festival.
“Chinese New Year is one of Penang’s most important cultural celebrations, and every year we see strong participation from the government, temples, associations and private groups, creating a vibrant and inclusive festive atmosphere,” he told a press conference at Gurney Paragon Mall today.
Wong mentioned the state government has compiled a comprehensive guide to Chinese New Year activities to help residents and visitors easily plan their festive outings.
“We want families, friends and tourists to explore different parts of Penang and take part in the celebrations happening across the state,” he said.
On festive shopping, Wong noted that preparations are already in full swing, with the Tow Boo Kong temples in Butterworth launching their Chinese New Year night markets, drawing large crowds.
“At the same time, shopping malls across Penang are beautifully decorated with festive themes, offering promotions and photo opportunities that further enhance the pre-festival mood,” he added.
Wong said lantern displays will once again be a major highlight, showcasing Penang’s festive charm.
“In Bukit Mertajam, Pek Kong Cheng is illuminated with red lanterns, including a special ‘Leaping Fish’ display this year, while Jalan Raja Uda in Butterworth will be lit up with thousands of lanterns,” he said.
On the island, Wong said 1,635 red lanterns have been installed along the streets of George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“In addition, the iconic lights and lanterns at Kek Lok Si Temple will be officially switched on at 7pm on Feb 13, creating a serene and majestic sight for visitors,” he added.
Temple fairs, or Miaohui, will also feature prominently in this year’s celebrations, Wong said.
“In George Town, Miaohui will take place within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, while in Seberang Perai, major temple fairs will be held at Simpah Kuan Im Teng Tow Boo Kong Temple and Thean Hock Keong Temple in Butterworth,” he said.
“These temple fairs are always crowd-pullers and offer visitors a chance to experience traditional culture, food and community spirit.”
Touching on religious observances, Wong said the annual Worship of the Jade Emperor, or Pai Ti Kong, remains a significant tradition for the Hokkien community in Penang.
“From the evening of the eighth day to the early hours of the ninth day of the lunar new year, devotees across Penang Island and Seberang Perai will set up offerings to express gratitude and pray for blessings,” he said.
“In Butterworth, the Tow Boo Kong Temple will host a solemn ceremony, and we welcome devotees and visitors to witness and take part in this meaningful tradition.”
Wong also highlighted the upcoming Flame Watching Ceremonies, which are unique to Penang’s Chinese New Year calendar.
“The Ban Ka Lan Snake Temple will hold its flame-watching ceremony on Feb 21, followed by another ceremony at Tua Pek Kong Temple in Tanjong Tokong on March 2,” he said.
“These centuries-old rituals symbolise prayers for peace and prosperity and remain an important cultural tradition for Penang.”
He said the Penang State Chap Goh Meh celebration will mark the grand finale of the festive season.
“Organised by the state government and coordinated by my office, the celebration will feature Mandarin orange tossing, high-pole lion dances, Chingay performances and a fireworks display,” he said.
Beyond the main events, Wong said Chinese New Year celebrations in Penang also include fun runs, community gatherings, parades and large-scale ‘Lou Sang’ sessions.
“These activities allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, whether they choose to participate or simply enjoy the sights and sounds,” he added.
To further boost tourism, Wong said Penang Global Tourism, together with industry partners, has launched the 2026 Penang Chinese New Year Travel Deals.
“These special deals offer attractive packages covering accommodation, tours and selected attractions, giving visitors more value and flexibility when planning their trips,” he said.
Wong said the initiative aims to encourage visitors to stay longer, explore more destinations and experience Penang’s festive charm both day and night.
“Chinese New Year is an ideal time to visit Penang and experience our multicultural harmony, rich traditions and warm hospitality,” he said.
Among those present during the press conference were Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan.
Story by Edmund Lee