What is the significance of this auspicious day 20 May and how is it celebrated in Singapore?
Singapore is a multicultural society, where people of different ethnicities and religions coexist harmoniously. Among its diverse population, the Chinese community forms the largest group, accounting for about 74% of the total residents. As such, Chinese culture and traditions have a strong influence on Singapore’s social and festive landscape.
One of the most popular occasions for celebrating love among the Chinese community is 20 May, also known as 520 or Chinese Valentine’s Day. But what is the origin and meaning of this special day? And how do Chinese couples in Singapore celebrate it? Here are some answers and insights for you.
The Origin and Meaning of 520
The number 520 may seem like a normal number for you, but for many Chinese people, it has a very special meaning. It is a homophonic word that sounds very close to “I love you” or “wo ai ni” in Chinese. This slang word originated from the internet as a shortcut to express love, like ILY in English. It then became associated with the date May 20th (5.20), which turned into a very romantic day.
Nowadays, 20 May is more important as a day of opportunity for men to express their romantic love for women. That means ladies expect to receive flowers or gifts on this day. This date is also often selected by some Chinese couples for their wedding ceremony. Saying “I love you” to your loved ones as often as possible is the spirit of this day.
How to Celebrate 520 in Singapore
If you want to join the celebration of 520 with your partner, there are many ways to do so in Singapore. Here are some ideas for you:
Send a bouquet of flowers:
Nothing says “I love you” more than a beautiful bouquet of flowers. You can choose from various types of flowers, such as roses, carnations, lilies, orchids, or baby’s breaths. You can also customize your flower bouquet according to your partner’s preferences and personality. To make it more convenient, you can order online and get same-day flower delivery from many flower delivery services in Singapore. Flower bouquets are one of the most common and popular gifts on 520, as they can convey different messages and emotions depending on their types, colors, and numbers. More about flower later.
Go on a romantic dinner:
Treat your partner to a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Singapore that offer romantic ambience and cuisine. You can choose from different types of food, such as Chinese, Japanese, French, Italian, or fusion. You can also opt for a candlelight dinner or a rooftop dining experience with stunning views of the city skyline.
Watch a movie:
If you prefer something more relaxing and cozy, you can watch a movie with your partner at one of the cinemas in Singapore that offer comfortable seats and sound systems. You can choose from different genres of movies, such as romance, comedy, action, or drama. You can also bring some snacks and drinks to enjoy during the movie.
Visit an attraction:
If you want something more fun and adventurous, you can visit one of the many attractions in Singapore that offer exciting activities and experiences for couples. You can choose from different types of attractions, such as theme parks, museums, gardens, zoos, or aquariums. You can also take some photos and selfies with your partner to capture the memories.
How to Choose the Right Flowers
If you want to buy flower bouquets for your girlfriend on 520, there are some things you should consider before making your decision:
– Know her preferences: The best way to choose the right flowers is to know what your girlfriend likes or dislikes. You can pay attention to her favorite colors, styles, scents, or hobbies, or ask her friends or family members for advice.
– Know her personality: The type of flower you choose should match your girlfriend’s personality or character traits. For example, if she is cheerful and lively, you can choose bright-colored flowers like sunflowers or gerberas; if she is gentle and sweet, you can choose soft-colored flowers like carnations or tulips; if she is sophisticated and elegant, you can choose exotic flowers like orchids or lilies.
Buying flowers for your girlfriend on 520 is a thoughtful and sweet gesture that can make her feel loved and appreciated. Remember that it is not about how expensive or extravagant the flowers are, but how sincere and genuine your feelings are.
Here are some of the most popular flowers and their meanings in Singapore:
Roses:
Roses are the classic choice for expressing love and romance, especially red roses that symbolize passion and devotion. The number of roses in a rose bouquet also matters: one rose means “you are my only one”, nine roses mean “eternal love”, 99 roses mean “forever”, and 999 roses mean “everlasting love”.
Carnations:
Carnations are another popular choice for expressing love and gratitude, especially pink carnations that symbolize admiration and appreciation. They are also suitable for mothers, as they represent maternal love and often the flower given on Mother’s Day in Singapore.
Lilies:
Lilies are elegant and fragrant flowers that symbolize purity and innocence. They are often given to young women or brides-to-be, as they represent happiness and good luck in marriage.
Orchids:
Orchids are exotic and graceful flowers that symbolize beauty and elegance. They are often given to women who have refined taste or artistic talent, as they represent admiration and respect.
Baby’s breaths:
Baby’s breath bouquets are one of the trending and popular delicate and lovely flowers that symbolize innocence and purity. They are often used as filler flowers or paired with other flowers to create a romantic effect.
Why not arrange for a flower bouquet delivery on this day to your beloved someone.
Final Word
Many Chinese couples in Singapore share their love and happiness on social media platforms such as WeChat, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. They may also use digital red envelopes or stickers to send greetings or blessings to their friends or family members who are celebrating this day. Celebrating love on 520 is not only limited to Chinese couples in Singapore. Many other ethnic groups or foreigners who live or work in Singapore may also join in this celebration, as they appreciate the cultural diversity and festive atmosphere of this city-state.
Whatever you choose to do on 520 with your partner, make sure you express your love sincerely and genuinely. Remember that 520 is not just about gifts or dates; it’s about celebrating your relationship and making each other happy.
