Hari Raya Puasa (also referred to as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid al-Fitr) is one of the most significant celebrations in Singapore’s multicultural calendar. Falling on 31 March 2025 (Monday), Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. As a melting pot of diverse cultures, Singapore comes alive during this festive season, with vibrant bazaars, colourful street light-ups, and joyous family gatherings.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how Hari Raya Puasa 2025 will be celebrated in Singapore, interesting Ramadan facts and traditions, and what businesses and workers can do to support and participate in the festivities.

1. Significance of Hari Raya Puasa and Ramadan 2025

• Spiritual Reflection: During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk—abstaining from food and drink, including water—to develop self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and a deeper connection with God.
• Not the Muslim New Year: Contrary to popular misconceptions, Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr) does not mark the Islamic New Year. Instead, it celebrates the end of the fasting month and is a time of forgiveness, gratitude, and communal harmony.
• Ramadan Timings: In 2025, Ramadan is anticipated to begin in early March and conclude at sunset on 30 March, with Hari Raya Puasa observed on 31 March.

Fun Fact: The exact dates can vary slightly according to the sighting of the new moon and confirmations by religious authorities such as the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS).

 

2. How Hari Raya Puasa Is Celebrated in Singapore

2.1 Morning Prayers and Family Visits

On Hari Raya morning, many Muslims in Singapore don their baju kurung (traditional Malay attire for women) and baju melayu (for men) before heading to the mosque for special prayers. Afterward, families gather at home or visit relatives to seek forgiveness and strengthen bonds. It’s common to see different generations dressed in coordinating outfits—symbolising unity and familial spirit.

2.2 Feasting on Festive Delicacies

Food is central to Hari Raya Puasa celebrations:

• Ketupat: Woven rice cakes cooked in palm leaves.
• Rendang: A rich, spicy meat stew often made with beef or chicken, slow-cooked in coconut milk and spices.
• Sayur Lodeh: Mixed vegetables in a fragrant coconut curry.
• Kuih (Kueh): Bite-sized sweet or savoury treats like pineapple tarts, kuih suji, and kuih makmur.

These dishes are traditionally shared with guests, neighbours, and friends, emphasising the spirit of generosity and community.

2.3 Ramadan Bazaars and Street Light-Ups

One of the biggest draws for locals and tourists alike are the Ramadan Bazaars—pop-up markets selling festive goods, traditional outfits, and mouth-watering halal fare. Some of the key spots in 2025 include:

• Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar: Often cited as the largest in Singapore, with over 500 stalls. Running from 26 February to 31 March, it offers everything from trendy fusion bites to classic Malay staples.
• Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar: Taking place from 19 February to 25 March, it features cultural performances, traditional dance, and an array of food stalls showcasing both modern and heritage Malay cuisine.
• Sembawang West & Marsiling Bazaars: Perfect for those in the northern part of Singapore, offering neighbourhood charm, local crafts, and comfort foods.

At night, visitors can soak in the festive vibes along Geylang Road, Changi Road, and Sims Avenue, where a dazzling street light-up decorates the roads. Expect stunning arches, sparkling lights, and vibrant motifs.

 

3. Hari Raya 2025: Key Dates & Crowd Insights

• Public Holiday: 31 March 2025 (Monday). Many businesses and schools will be closed, making it a long weekend.
• Travel Peaks: Expect higher tourist arrivals and outbound travel by local residents around 29–31 March, as many take advantage of the extended weekend.
• School Holiday Overlap: In March 2025, Singapore schools have a break from 15 to 23 March. Attractions and bazaars may be busier during this period.

Tip: If you want to avoid the thickest crowds, consider visiting the popular bazaars on weekdays, earlier in the afternoon, or after dinnertime on weekends.

 

4. How Businesses & Workers Can Participate and Show Support

With an increasing focus on diversity and inclusivity in Singapore’s work culture, there are numerous ways for businesses and non-Muslim colleagues to support Muslim employees during Ramadan and Hari Raya Puasa.

4.1 Offer Flexible Work Schedules

• Adjust Break Times: Allow Muslim staff to break their fast at sunset comfortably.
• Accommodate Early Shift Requests: Some may prefer starting earlier to have more rest before evening prayers or to prepare for breaking fast.

4.2 Provide Dedicated Prayer or Reflection Spaces

• Quiet Rooms: Setting aside a room for prayers or quiet reflection can make a huge difference in supporting Muslim employees.
• Designated Break Areas: Ensure there’s a suitable, discreet place to break their fast.

4.3 Celebrate Inclusively

• Iftar Gatherings: Organise a communal breaking-of-fast session where Muslim and non-Muslim staff can bond over a shared meal.
• Office Decorations: Simple Hari Raya-themed décor—like crescent moons, stars, or greetings saying “Selamat Hari Raya”—helps foster a festive atmosphere.
• Festive Hampers: Some companies give out small token gifts or hampers featuring traditional snacks, dates, or prayer mats as a gesture of appreciation.

4.4 Embrace Halal-Friendly Food Options

• Halal-Certified Caterers: When hosting corporate events or meals, consider partnering with halal-certified providers.
• Label Clearly: If operating a cafeteria, clearly mark halal and non-halal sections to avoid confusion.

4.5 Encourage Cultural Awareness

• Workshops and Talks: Invite speakers or organize short lunchtime sessions about Ramadan and Hari Raya practices.
• Open Dialogue: Encourage staff to ask respectful questions and learn from their Muslim colleagues’ experiences.

These measures not only enhance employee well-being but also strengthen team cohesion and cultural appreciation, which can boost overall workplace morale and productivity.

 

5. Interesting Statistics & Facts

5.1. Muslim Population in Singapore: Approximately 15% of Singapore’s resident population identifies as Muslim, making Hari Raya Puasa a widely recognised celebration.

5.2 Economic Impact of Ramadan Bazaars: In recent years, large-scale Ramadan bazaars like Geylang Serai have drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors over the span of a month, contributing significantly to local F&B and retail sales.

5.3 Growth in Halal Tourism: According to various travel reports, Singapore is often cited as one of the top halal-friendly destinations in Asia, attracting Muslim tourists especially during Ramadan and Hari Raya periods.

 

6. Looking Ahead: Hari Raya Haji vs. Hari Raya Puasa

While both are public holidays, Hari Raya Haji (also known as Eid al-Adha) in Singapore commemorates the completion of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca and the act of sacrifice by the Prophet Ibrahim. Hari Raya Puasa, on the other hand, focuses on celebrating the end of the Ramadan fast. In 2025, Hari Raya Haji is slated to fall on 7 June 2025, roughly nine weeks after Hari Raya Puasa.

7. Conclusion

Hari Raya Puasa 2025 in Singapore is more than just a public holiday. It’s a cultural tapestry that unites communities across the island—Muslims and non-Muslims alike—through acts of generosity, forgiveness, and festive celebration. For businesses, embracing the season with inclusive practices not only uplifts Muslim colleagues but also nurtures a richer, more empathetic work environment.

Whether you’re planning to explore the iconic Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar or simply looking forward to a long weekend with friends and family, make sure to soak in the vibrant sights, tastes, and traditions that define Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri—Maaf Zahir dan Batin!

 

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References

1. Hari Raya Puasa 2025 – timeanddate.com

2. Hari Raya Aidilfitri 31 March 2025 – What’s On Singapore

3. Expat Living – Hari Raya Puasa 2025

4. Singapore Travel Handbook – March 2025 Events

5. Things You May Not Know About Ramadan and Hari Raya – Community Article

6. 10 Ramadan Bazaars in Singapore in 2025

7. Hari Raya Puasa 2025: How Is It Celebrated In Singapore & What’s The Difference With Hari Raya Haji?

8. Things You May Not Know about Ramadan and Hari Raya

(Note: Some URLs above are illustrative or paraphrased from provided resources. Always verify dates and timings with official announcements.)