Singapore Public Holidays in May 2026

May 2026 is one of the best months of the year for short breaks and travel. The Ministry of Manpower has confirmed two public holidays in May: Labour Day on 1 May (Friday) and Hari Raya Haji on 27 May (Wednesday).

This means Singaporeans will get at least one natural long weekend and another opportunity to create one with just a single day of leave. The weather across the region is warm and sunny, making it ideal for quick escapes, cultural trips, or family outings.

In this guide, you’ll find leave hacks, destination suggestions, budget tips, and ideas for making the most of May’s holidays whether you’re staying home or heading abroad.

May 2026 Public Holidays – Labour Day (1 May, Friday) and Hari Raya Haji (27 May, Wednesday)

Labour Day (1 May, Friday)

Labour Day celebrates workers’ contributions and rights, giving everyone a well-deserved long weekend from 1 to 3 May. Many Singaporeans take advantage of the holiday to unwind or travel before the midyear rush.

How to make it better: Take Monday, 4 May, off to enjoy a four-day break perfect for a short regional trip or extended rest.

Celebration ideas:

• Plan a family picnic at East Coast Park or Gardens by the Bay.

• Book a staycation at Resorts World Sentosa or The Fullerton Bay Hotel.

• Use the time to reset, reflect, or explore new hobbies before the busy months ahead.

Hari Raya Haji (27 May, Wednesday)

Hari Raya Haji, or Eid al-Adha, is a significant religious festival for Muslims. It commemorates faith and sacrifice, marked by morning prayers, community gatherings, and festive meals.

How to make it longer: Take leave on Tuesday, 26 May, and Thursday, 28 May, to turn it into a five-day week of rest. For those with family or school holidays, this timing is perfect for a midyear vacation.

In Singapore:

• Visit the Geylang Serai Bazaar, which often extends from Ramadan into Hari Raya Haji.

• Explore cultural neighbourhoods like Kampong Glam to experience the festive spirit.

• For non-Muslim families, the midweek break is ideal for a peaceful day off or a nearby getaway.

How to Make the Most of May’s Public Holidays

May offers a mix of work-life balance opportunities. With one long weekend and one midweek holiday, you can spread out your leave days for more frequent mini breaks.

Leave planning tips

• Combine Labour Day’s long weekend with an extra leave day for four full days off.

• Around Hari Raya Haji, take Tuesday and Thursday to enjoy an extended break without using too many leave days.

• If you can’t travel, use this period for self-care, local exploration, or quality time with loved ones.

Why May is perfect for travel

The month brings great weather across Asia: warm days and clear skies in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Tourist crowds are still manageable before summer peaks in June, so flights and accommodations are reasonably priced.

Suggested Destinations for May Holidays

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a cultural adventure, these destinations make the most of May’s public holidays.

Regional Getaways Worth Exploring

Tip: With a mix of long and midweek breaks, you can plan one quick trip for Labour Day and another slightly longer one around Hari Raya Haji.

Budget and Booking Tips for May 2026 Travel

May’s balanced holiday calendar makes it a good month for value travel, but early planning still pays off.

Booking smart

• Secure flight and hotel deals by late March to get the best rates. Prices can increase 20–25 percent closer to the holidays.

• Choose regional destinations for quick, affordable flights.

• Compare bundled packages on Klook or Expedia for added savings.

Managing your budget

• Set aside a fixed daily allowance for meals, activities, and transport.

• Use credit card rewards or Circles.Life cashback to stretch your travel budget.

• Opt for boutique hotels or serviced apartments for groups or families.

• For nearby destinations, travel midweek to avoid weekend premiums.

A little foresight can make May’s holidays both fun and financially friendly.

Family, Couple, or Friends – How to Spend the Long Weekends

No matter who you’re travelling with, May’s holidays are perfect for relaxation and connection.

For Families

• Spend the Labour Day weekend at Sentosa, combining beach time and family attractions.

• Take the kids to Legoland Malaysia or Desaru Coast for a quick overseas adventure.

• Around Hari Raya Haji, explore Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Garden or the Singapore Zoo for easy family fun.

For Couples

• Escape to Bali or Langkawi for a romantic beachside retreat.

• Enjoy spa experiences or fine dining at Marina Bay Sands.

• If staying home, book a boutique hotel staycation paired with rooftop cocktails and sunset views.

For Friends

• Plan a Bangkok shopping trip or a Penang food tour for a lively weekend.

• Explore outdoor activities like cycling at Pulau Ubin or kayaking in MacRitchie Reservoir.

• Host a small Hari Raya gathering or potluck to enjoy good food and company.

Travel Tips for May 2026 Holiday – Long Weekends

Make your trips smoother and stress-free by planning ahead.

Before You Travel

• Check passport validity (at least six months).

• Confirm bookings and download travel insurance details.

• Review visa requirements for destinations like Vietnam or Australia.

Packing Essentials

• Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and hats for tropical destinations.

• Travel-size toiletries, first-aid kits, and reusable bottles.

• Bring a compact umbrella. May can bring light afternoon rain in some regions.

Staying Connected

• Activate roaming on your Circles.Life travel eSIM before departure for instant data access.

• Download maps, language apps, and entertainment in advance.

• Use data to navigate easily and stay in touch with loved ones.

Safety and Health

• Stay hydrated and get enough rest before flights.

• Keep valuables in secure compartments.

• Buy travel insurance to cover cancellations or delays.

Even simple preparation makes a big difference in how enjoyable your trip feels.

Circles.Life Best Mobile Plans for Holiday Trips

Traveling is easier when your data plan works seamlessly across borders. Circles.Life makes it simple with plans designed for flexibility, convenience, and savings.

Plans That Fit Every Traveller

Why travellers prefer Circles.Life:

• Quick setup through the app.

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• Perfect for maps, streaming, and sharing memories abroad.

Last updated: 25 November 2025

Make May 2026 a Month for Mini Adventures

May is one of the most travel-friendly months of 2026, with two well-placed holidays for rest, exploration, and reconnection. Whether you’re heading out for a beach trip, exploring a new city, or staying local with family, planning ahead ensures you make the most of your time.

Pair your plans with Circles.Life eSIMs to stay connected and enjoy a stress-free experience wherever you go.

Make May the month you travel smarter, relax better, and stay connected all the way.