Know Penang - Annual Events, Festivals & Celebrations in Penang, Malaysia
o Chap Goh Meh (January/February): Celebrated on the 15th night of the first month of the Chinese Lunar calendar. The highlight of the festival is the orange-throwing ceremony in which local maidens throw oranges into the sea for would-be suitors to catch.
o Penang International Dragon Boat Festival (June): This event is gaining popularity as seen from the increasing number of international teams participating each year.
Boats bearing ornate and colourful fIgureheads resembling dragons and other shapes create a profusion of colour and noise as they power through the waters of the scenic Teluk Bahang Dam to the finishing line. A carnival-like atmosphere pervades the festival as spectators urge on their favourite teams.
o Penang Flora Festival (June/July): Highlight of the festival is the bright display of flowers at KOMTAR.
o Penang Food Festival (August): Offers visitors the opportunity to sample the best of Penang cuisine, learn a bit about its history and watch various dishes being prepared.
o Lantern Festival (September): Mid-autumn festival characterized by brightly lit lanterns in all shapes and colours. It is also associated with the moon cake, a sweet delicacy which once carried secret messages inciting rebellion in ancient China.
o Pesta Pulau Pinang (November/Desember): Features an annual trade fair and exhibition. Carnival rides, band performances, games and cultural shows lend a festive air.
