Festivals

Penang has a host of festivals and event lined up each year. Just like any other state in Malaysia, Penang’s people celebrate the major festivals associated with their race, namely Hari Raya (Malays), Chinese New Year (Chinese) and Deepavali (Indians).

Penang having such a large Chinese population, many Chinese celebrations that would not usually be officially celebrated in the other states take prominence on the streets.

For example, on Wesak day each year, thousands of Chinese take to the temples to celebrate the origin of the Buddhist religion. At night, there is even a procession of floats, flowers and flags that starts from Burmah Road.

Certain festivals, such as the International Dragon Boat Race, where participants from across the world race in Chinese ‘dragon’ boats, and the annual Penang Festival, a jamboree celebrating the island’s heritage, are unique to Penang alone.

Throughout the year, there will always be something going on to keep the momentum flowing. Visitors will never cease to be amazed at Penang’s restless pace of celebration!