Looking for the best things to do during CNY in Penang? We have a few recommendations for those who want to feel the crowded ambience of the festival. In case you missed it, we also blogged about Reunion Dinner and Lou Sang spots in Penang 2019.
Without further ado, let’s check out what to do in Penang this Chinese New Year 2019.
1. The TOP
The new lunar year was celebrated in style and with a big bang when thousands of Penangites and tourists to the island ushered the festivity with an elaborated firework display with snowfall at Penang’s Iconic Destination, The Top Penang.
Taking place for the very first time, the countdown party was held to celebrate the auspicious first day of Chinese New Year and at the same time, is it an effort to ‘give life’ to the island’s iconic landmark, Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR).
This Chinese New Year, there are several promotions taking place between 5 –19 February 2019. For dining, a Chinese New Year – Rainbow Skywalk Dinner’ is available at Coco Cabana, Level 68 from a price of RM98++ for children and a Prosperity Buffet Dinner with Penang Skyline View’ available on 5 & 6 February 2019 from RM98++ per child.
For more information about the offerings available at The Top Penang, visit thetop.com.my/promotion or follow Facebook.com/thetopofpenang or contact +604-2623800.
2. Kek Lok Si
Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the iconic travelling spots of Penang which is well known by locals and travellers. This temple is full of people during the day and surrounded by colourful lights during the night. It is located after Ayer Itam Market.
Address: 1000-L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
3. Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2019
From February 9 to 10, hot air balloons will rise over Padang Polo during this Chinese New Year. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience and the only hot air balloon festival on an island in Malaysia. The Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta will see numerous hot air balloons by international and local balloonists over the 2-day festival, together with family-friendly activities, creative workshops and more!
Address: Padang Polo, George Town, 10450 Penang
4. Goddess of Mercy Temple
The Goddess of Mercy Temple, also known as Kuan Yin Teng, a Taoist temple in the city of Georgetown in Penang. This temple was built in 1728, making it the Penang’s oldest Taoist temple.
5. Penang CNY Celebration 2019
The Chinese New Year Celebration will take the form of a street event organised by Penang Chinese Clan Council, coordinated by Penang Cultural Inheritors Society. This festive event will take place at George Town World Heritage site on 9 February, 2019 (Day 5 of Lunar New Year) from 4pm to 11pm.
Address: George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site
6. Bagan Festival @ Butterworth Art Walk – Chinese New Year Celebration
Bagan Festival @ Butterworth Art Walk is inspired through Car Free evening aimed at reducing the use of cars on roads. To bring the community closer to local arts and culture, Bagan Festival celebrates Chinese New Year with a variety of Chinese cultural activities.
Address: Butterworth Art Walk, Lorong Bagan Luar 2
7. Chew Jetty
On February 12, the Hokkien Chinese in Penang have their own grandiose celebration known as Pai Ti Kong Festival. For 2019, the festival takes place on February 12, 7pm to 12 midnight.
8. Penang Esplanade
On February 19, Chap Goh Meh is celebrated on the fifteenth night of Chinese New Year. As the full moon shines, marriageable young ladies will go to Penang Esplanade to throw tangerines into the sea, wishing for a suitable husband.
9. OBS Chinese New Year Run 2019
Immerse yourselves in the festive spirit of Chinese New Year by participating the popular 5km run across George Town World Heritage Site! Be sure to boost your excitement up and not to forget having a chance in winning great prizes in the Chinese New Year lucky draw too!
Venue: Beach Street
10. Penang Avatar Secret Garden
In this mesmerizing and beautiful enchanted forest, you’ll definitely take lots of pictures with your family. The forest is full of neon lights that creates a peace of mind. Do mind that there are quite a number of stairs to climb and difficult to see when the sky gets dark.
Address: 336, Jalan Tokong Thai Pak Koong, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Bonus: Bukit Tambun Chap Goh Meh Ceremony
On the fifteen day of Chinese New Year, a team of Teochew drummers will perform among local temples and Chinese Community Houses in Bukit Tambun and Batu Kawan. Lanterns will be lit up in line with the Teochew drums and Lion Dance team to parade along Jalan Bukit Tambun.
Places to visit during CNY
That’s the end of our recommendation on places you can visit in Penang during the month of February. What are you most excited for? Let us know in the comment section below. Oh ya, if we missed out any places to visit in Penang during CNY, let us know too.
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