It is hoped the series of events - which include the construction of a huge floating lantern and the sale of 350 types of mooncake - will boost many citizens' sense of their own heritage and draw in more tourists.

Almost 77 per cent of Singapore's 3.26 million people are ethnic Chinese, while 14 per cent are Malay and eight per cent Indian, according to last year's population census.

"We have been receiving lots of feedback from community members that something big-scale was needed to remind people of the story of Mid-Autumn," Singapore Tourism Board chief executive Yeo Khee Leng said.

"We hope that this pioneering effort will resurrect and rekindle traditional festivals and traditions in Singapore. While all the revelry will appeal to locals . . . we are confident that visitors will similarly enjoy the festivities."

Among the scheduled shows, due to start on September 21 are demonstrations of giant calligraphy, tea-appreciation ceremonies, fancy-dress competitions and an archery contest. The events will be spread across the island, including displays in the upmarket Orchard Road shopping district and Chinatown.

In the Kampong Glam area, chefs will take to the streets to teach passersby how to make perfect mooncakes.

Tourism forms a key part of the economy, with Singapore pulling in a record 7.6 million visitors last year, many of them from the mainland.

In the first half of this year, China ranked as the sixth biggest source of visitors, with 234,000 arrivals, up almost seven per cent from last year.

"I think that modern Singapore needs more of this kind of anchor," Mr Yeo said.