Attendees at next year's Chingay parade will see a tiger prowling as part of the performances.

But rest assured, the fearsome feline is just a float and not the real animal. It will be designed to resemble the first float that appeared in a Chingay parade.

The parade was born in 1973, but it was only a year later that its now-signature floats first appeared.

The 2017 parade, to take place over two nights on Feb 10 and 11 at the F1 Pit Building, will include 8,000 performers and 2,000 volunteers. There will also be a National Education show on Jan 21.

The theme, WeCare Singapore, was chosen to highlight Singaporeans' care for one another, regardless of race, language or religion.

Tickets are available at all authorised Sistic outlets from today.

There will also be a Chap-Ngoh Mei and Chingay 2017 Night Fiesta in Chinatown on Feb 12. Entry is free.

Mr Ang Hak Seng, chief executive director of the People's Association, said: "Chingay 2017 is special as we celebrate our 45th year of Chingay. As part of the celebrations, we will let Singaporeans witness Chingay of the past, present and future."