2024 Thnee Kong Seh (Jade Emperor’s Birthday Festival)

Share this

The various scenes from Penang’s historic Weld Quay featuring the annual celebration honoring the revered Jade Emperor. As devotees and onlookers gathered, the air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of fireworks, creating an atmosphere steeped in cultural richness alongside traditional performances at the main stage.

The Jade Emperor’s Birthday Festival, also known as the Heavenly Emperor’s Birthday or Thnee Kong Seh in Hokkien, holds deep cultural and religious significance in Chinese tradition. Originating from Taoist beliefs, the festival celebrates the birthday of the Jade Emperor, one of the most revered figures in Chinese mythology, believed to be the ruler of heaven and earth. The festival’s history traces back centuries to ancient China, where communities would gather to pay homage to the Jade Emperor with elaborate ceremonies, offerings, and prayers for blessings and prosperity. Thnee Kong Seh, is celebrated by the Hokkiens on the ninth day of the Lunar New Year.

2024 Chinese New Year Fire Watching Festival at Penang Snake Temple

Share this

The annual fire-watching festival was held at the Penang Snake Temple during the 6th lunar day of the Chinese New Year this year (which was 14 February 2024). There were also various cultural performances held alongside the fire-watching ceremony, including a traditional puppet show, lion dance and fireworks.

Legend has it that the temple, dedicated to the deity Chor Soo Kong, was inhabited by venomous pit vipers centuries ago. According to folklore, these serpents, believed to be guardians of the temple, emerged from the nearby jungle and took refuge within its walls.

Lion Dance During Chinese New Year

Share this

Lion dance performance at the front entrance of GAMA supermarket in George Town.

Chinese New Year in Penang is celebrated usually with the vibrant tradition of Lion Dance, a captivating spectacle that adds an extra dash of excitement to the festive season. As the rhythmic beat of drums fills the air, intricately adorned lions prance through the streets, symbolizing prosperity and warding off evil spirits.

Penang’s Lion Dance troupes showcase impeccable coordination and skill, captivating audiences with their awe-inspiring performances. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, witnessing the Lion Dance in Penang during Chinese New Year is an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the rich cultural tapestry of this dynamic Malaysian island. Join the festivities and let the spirited energy of the Lion Dance usher in a prosperous and auspicious year ahead.

2024 Chinese New Year Lights at Kek Lok Si

Share this

Kek Lok Si Temple illuminated in a dazzling array of lights during Chinese New Year. As one of Penang’s most iconic landmarks, Kek Lok Si Temple comes alive with vibrant decorations and thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical ambiance that captures the essence of the festive season.

Penang Chinese New Year Scene at Kuan Yin Temple

Share this

Located in the heart of George Town, the old Kuan Yin Temple at Kapitan Keling Mosque Street is where age-old Chinese traditions come to life in a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds. On the first day of the Chinese New Year, this historic temple transforms into a bustling hub of activity as devotees and visitors alike flock to pay homage and seek blessings for the year ahead. Kuan Yin is also known as the Goddess of Mercy.

Armenian Street Park: 2024 Chinese New Year Decorations

Share this

Discovering the enchanting Armenian Park in George Town, illuminated by charming lanterns and featuring a captivating mascot representing the new lunar year’s Chinese Zodiac animal—the Dragon.

Queensbay Mall : 2024 Chinese New Year Festive Display

Share this

Step into a realm of joy and elegance at Queensbay Mall in Penang, where the Chinese New Year festivities come alive in a spectacular showcase. Welcoming the Year of the Dragon, the mall is adorned with a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese New Year decorations. The central atrium of the mall is decorated with ornate lanterns, auspicious symbols, and golden themed pavilion. Queensbay Mall’s celebration not only embraces the festive spirit but also pays homage to the ancient Chinese architectural aesthetics, transporting visitors to a bygone era. The intricate details of the decorations echo the grandeur of traditional structures, creating a harmonious blend of cultural richness and contemporary celebration.

Gurney Plaza : 2024 Chinese New Year Festive Display

Share this

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at Gurney Plaza’s Festive Lunar New Year Display

Gurney Plaza shopping mall ushering in the auspicious Year of the Dragon for this Chinese Lunar New Year whereby its central atrium is transformed into a vibrant and enchanting scene, adorned with stunning decorations that capture the spirit of the festive season.

Design Village Penang: 2024 Chinese New Year Festive Display

Share this

Design Village in Penang celebrating Chinese New Year with a stunning display of traditional decorations. Embracing the Year of the Dragon, the vibrant red lanterns and intricate ornaments adorn the outdoor spaces, creating a mesmerizing ambiance that transports visitors to ancient China. The celebration is not just about the festive allure but also a journey through the rich history of Chinese architecture. The intricate details of the decorations reflect the grandeur of ancient structures, offering a unique blend of cultural appreciation and festive cheer.

Penang Isle: Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (The Waterfall Hilltop Temple)

Share this

As the largest temple dedicated to Lord Murugan outside India, the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple located in the Botanical Garden (or Waterfall) area of Penang was built at a cost of approximately USD 3.1 million and took five years to complete. The staircase of 512 steps leading up to the new temple was found to be longer than the 272-step the Hindu temple in Batu Caves, Selangor. The temple complex and its hill area also houses several other Hindu shrines as well as a massive statue of Lord Shiva.

The new temple features were inspired from the South Indian Chola and Pallava eras and mainly used imported materials from India.
The old temple is popularly known as the Waterfall Hill Temple or Lord Murugan Temple in the island and is also the main site of the annual Thaipusam pilgrimage.