Singapore School Holidays February 2026 Guide
Singapore School Holidays February 2026: A Guide for Australian Families
Planning a family holiday to Singapore in February 2026? Understanding local school holidays is key, especially if you’re travelling with kids or want to avoid peak crowds. Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) sets the academic calendar, which differs from Australia’s state-based terms. February often features Chinese New Year (CNY) breaks, making it a lively time for family outings.
This article outlines expected dates (always verify with official sources), compares them to Australian school schedules, and shares practical travel advice for Aussies. Note: Exact 2026 dates aren’t finalised yet—check the MOE website (moe.gov.sg) closer to the time, as they typically announce a year in advance.
Expected Singapore School Holidays in February 2026
Singapore’s school year runs from January to November, divided into four terms with holidays in between. February 2026 falls mainly in Term 1 (January to late March), but includes public holidays around CNY.
- Chinese New Year Holidays: CNY 2026 begins on Thursday, 29 January (Year of the Horse). Schools usually close for 29-30 January (Eve and Day 1) and extend to 2 February (Day 4, a public holiday). Expect 4-5 school days off total, including weekends.
- No Full-Term Break in February: The main Term 1 holiday starts late March (around 27 March to mid-April). February is mostly term time, except CNY.
Based on recent patterns:
| Year | CNY Dates | School Holiday Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 29 Jan-2 Feb (public hols) | 29 Jan-4 Feb off |
| 2024 | 10-12 Feb | Similar short break |
| 2026 (expected) | 29 Jan-2 Feb | 29 Jan-5 Feb approx |
Australian families should confirm via MOE’s school calendar page. Changes can occur due to unforeseen events.
How February 2026 Aligns with Australian School Terms
Australia’s school holidays vary by state and territory, but most follow a January start and late-March Term 1 end. February 2026 is mid-term for most students:
- NSW, VIC, QLD: Schools resume late January; Term 1 ends ~28 March. February is full school weeks, except Labour Day (VIC: 9 March) or similar.
- WA, SA, TAS: Similar, with Term 1 to late March/early April.
- NT, ACT: Align closely with east coast.
This mismatch means Singapore’s CNY break offers a short window for Aussie families to visit without local kids’ holidays overlapping fully. Ideal for half-term escapes or long weekends. Check your state’s education department (e.g., education.nsw.gov.au) for precise dates—always verify officially.
If your kids have a February public holiday (e.g., VIC’s Labour Day), combine it with Singapore’s CNY for extended travel.
Family Travel from Australia to Singapore in February 2026
Direct flights from major Aussie cities make Singapore accessible:
- From Sydney/Melbourne: 8-9 hours on Qantas, Scoot, or Singapore Airlines (~AUD 400-800 return pp).
- From Perth: 5 hours, even cheaper (~AUD 300-600).
- Best Times: Book early for CNY (prices spike 20-50%). Aim for late January/early February mid-week flights to save.
February weather: Hot (28-32°C), humid, occasional rain—pack light clothes, sunscreen, and rain ponchos. CNY brings festive vibes but crowded attractions.
Visa and Entry for Aussies
No visa needed for stays <90 days. Use Singapore’s ICA portal for latest rules. Kids under 12 may need parental consent forms.
Top Family Activities in Singapore During February Holidays
Leverage CNY for cultural fun:
Chinese New Year Celebrations
- Chinatown: Lanterns, lion dances, street food (29 Jan-2 Feb). Free entry; kid-friendly markets.
- River Hongbao at Gardens by the Bay: Massive light-ups, performances (tickets ~SGD 12/adult).
Theme Parks and Attractions
- Universal Studios Singapore: Open daily; fewer crowds pre-CNY. Rides for all ages (SGD 88/day pass).
- Sentosa Island: Beaches, S.E.A. Aquarium—perfect for Aussie beach lovers.
- Gardens by the Bay: Supertrees light show; CNY floral displays.
Kid-Friendly Spots
- Singapore Zoo/Night Safari: Animal encounters; book timed tickets.
- Science Centre: Interactive exhibits during hols.
Avoid peak CNY weekends; opt for weekdays.
Practical Planning Tips for Australian Families
- Accommodation: Stay central—Marina Bay Sands (pools for kids, ~AUD 400/night) or budget options like Ibis (AUD 150). Book CNY specials.
- Budget Breakdown (Family of 4, 5 days):
- Flights: AUD 2,000-3,000
- Hotel: AUD 1,000-2,000
- Food/Attractions: AUD 800-1,200
- Total: AUD 4,000-6,000
- Health & Safety: Singapore is family-safe; tap water drinkable. Update vaccinations (hepatitis A routine). Use Grab app for taxis.
- Packing Essentials: Reusable water bottles, portable fans, adapters (Type G plugs).
- Sustainable Travel: Use MRT (cheap, efficient); choose eco-hotels.
Coordinating with Aussie Holidays
If aligning with your state’s Autumn break (late March-April 2026, ~2 weeks), extend to Singapore’s Term 1 holiday for back-to-back fun. Many families fly via Singapore en route to Bali or Phuket.
Final Advice: Verify and Book Smart
Singapore school holidays February 2026 centre on CNY (late Jan-early Feb)—a vibrant, short break differing from Australia’s mid-term. For Australian families, it’s a great low-crowd window before global Easter rush.
Must-Do: Cross-check dates on moe.gov.sg and your state education site. Use tools like SchoolHolidays.com.au for Aussie calendars. Early booking via Skyscanner or Expedia saves money.
Safe travels—Singapore’s blend of city thrills and family vibes awaits!
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