Festival Fieldnotes Book (2021)

Storytelling

From coffee table books to cultural anthropology write-ups. These different publication genres offer us an opportunity to present and showcase the best stories from Singapore’s diverse communities.

Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali and Christmas. We know the big ones. But we’ve only scratched the surface when it comes to understanding and embracing the true breadth and depth of the cultural and religious festivals celebrated on the island we call home.

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, this book takes a closer look at the little-known practices, rituals and festivities which happen out at sea, within the homes of believers, and in the halls, courtyards and backyards of the hundreds of religious sanctuaries dotting Singapore.

The book systematically documents and examines the unique customs and traditions of major ethnic and religious festivals during a regular calendar year in Singapore and captures their provenance, history and evolution. It is anchored by voices of believers and practitioners.

Replete with photographs, the upcoming coffee table book is designed to serve as a thoughtful introduction to Singapore’s vibrant cultural and religious scene, instil in readers a deeper sense of appreciation and love for the country’s rich heritage, and establish stronger bonds across the nation’s diverse communities.