Category: George Town / Island

Thaipusam in Penang

Thaipusam is a Tamil Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, marked by devotion and penance, and in Penang it’s strongly associated with chariot processions and devotees carrying kavadis (including ornate peacock kavadis). Penang’s celebrations are commonly centred around the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Waterfall Hilltop Temple) area, with large crowds and many “Thaneer Panthals” (refreshment stalls) along routes.

Penang celebrates Thaipusam on 1 Feb 2026, with major processions and rituals spilling into the eve (31 Jan), making it one of the island’s biggest, most visible Hindu religious events focused on Murugan devotion and iconic chariot/kavadi traditions.

Bayan Baru: Jalan Mahsuri Lighting and Streetscape Beautification

Jalan Mahsuri is a major, well-connected road in Bayan Baru that links important junctions and supports daily residential and commercial activity. This was a lighting and streetscape beautification project along Jalan Mahsuri which was initiated through a close collaboration between YB Fahmi Zainol (Pantai Jerejak state assemblyman) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP). Its aim is to improve the area’s appearance while enhancing comfort and safety for residents and road users.

Penang Hill: Kopi Hutan

Kopi Hutan at Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera) is a forest-style, open-air café set in lush greenery where people stop for coffee and light bites in cooler hill weather, often as part of a nature walk around the summit area.

To get there, first go up to Penang Hill either by hiking or taking the Penang Hill funicular train from the Lower Station in Ayer Itam, then from the Upper Station head toward the Owl Museum area and continue to Monkey Cup Garden, where Kopi Hutan is located. From the Upper Station, you can either walk about 2 km or use the café’s free shuttle (noted by visitors as available for customers) to reach the Monkey Cup Garden/Kopi Hutan.

Queensbay Mall : Christmas Festive Decorations 2025

Queensbay Mall in Penang is celebrating Christmas 2025 with its “Happy Piñata Holidays” theme, turning the Centre Atrium into a colourful and lively festive space inspired by Mexican Las Posadas traditions. The mall features oversized piñatas, a giant floating Christmas tree, playful installations, interactive “snowy icy bubbles,” and fun family elements like sleigh gondolas and Santa walkabouts. Shoppers can enjoy seasonal workshops, vibrant performances, and festive booths while soaking up the cheerful holiday atmosphere that blends bright decorations with joyful experiences for all ages.

Gurney Plaza : Christmas Festive Decorations 2025

Gurney Plaza in Penang has launched its “Bear-y Bright Holidays” Christmas theme, transforming the mall’s Centre Atrium into a festive winter-inspired space with sparkling lights, giant plush bears including a 13-foot snow bear and a 10-foot red rose bear, seasonal ornaments, and plenty of photo spots for families and friends. Visitors can enjoy appearances by Santa, meet-and-greet sessions with bear mascots, an artificial snowfall experience, and Christmas markets featuring artisanal gifts and holiday treats, all designed to create a cheerful holiday atmosphere for shoppers and guests.