Events

Singapore’s diverse culture and vibrant community make it a hotspot for festivals and events throughout the year. From traditional cultural celebrations to modern art festivals, here’s an ultimate guide to the must-attend festivals and events in Singapore.

Chinese New Year

When: January/February

Chinese New Year is one of the most significant festivals in Singapore. The celebration lasts for 15 days, starting with a family reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve. Key highlights include the Chinatown Street Light-Up, lion dances, and the River Hongbao at Marina Bay. Don’t miss the Chingay Parade, a spectacular street procession featuring elaborate floats, costumes, and performances.

Hari Raya Puasa

When: June/July

Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan. The Malay community celebrates with special prayers, feasts, and the Geylang Serai Bazaar. The bazaar is a vibrant marketplace offering a variety of traditional Malay food, clothing, and crafts. The Hari Raya Light-Up transforms the Geylang Serai area into a dazzling display of lights and decorations.

Deepavali

When: October/November

Deepavali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated with illuminated streets, cultural performances, and delicious Indian sweets. Little India becomes the center of festivities, featuring the Deepavali Light-Up, street markets, and cultural shows. Visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and enjoy traditional Indian cuisine at local eateries.

Christmas Wonderland

When: December

Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay is a festive extravaganza featuring dazzling light displays, Christmas markets, and entertainment. Families can enjoy ice skating, carnival games, and meeting Santa Claus. The nightly light and sound show at the Supertree Grove adds a magical touch to the holiday season.

Singapore Food Festival

When: July

The Singapore Food Festival celebrates the city’s diverse culinary heritage. The festival features food tastings, cooking workshops, and special dining events. Highlights include the STREAT, a pop-up restaurant showcasing local chefs and innovative dishes, and the Hawker Wine Safari, pairing street food with fine wines.

Singapore National Day

When: August 9

Singapore National Day commemorates the country’s independence with a grand parade, fireworks, and performances. The National Day Parade is held at Marina Bay, featuring military displays, cultural performances, and a stunning fireworks finale. The heartland celebrations and community events across the island add to the patriotic atmosphere.

Thaipusam

When: January/February

Thaipusam is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan. Devotees participate in a colourful procession from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. Many carry kavadis, intricate structures adorned with flowers and peacock feathers, and some perform acts of penance, like piercing their skin with hooks and skewers.

Singapore Arts Festival

When: May/June

The Singapore Arts Festival is a month-long performing arts celebration featuring local and international artists. The festival includes theatre, dance, music, and visual arts performances. Events are held at various venues across the city, including the Esplanade, Singapore’s premier performing arts center.

Vesak Day

When: May

Vesak Day, also known as Buddha’s Birthday, is an important Buddhist festival. Temples across Singapore hold special prayers, chanting sessions, and rituals. The highlight is the Bathing of the Buddha ceremony, where devotees pour water over a statue of the baby Buddha. The celebrations also include charity events and vegetarian food fairs.

Singapore International Film Festival

When: November/December

The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) is a major event for film enthusiasts. The festival showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world, focusing on Asian cinema. SGIFF features screenings, panel discussions, and workshops, providing a platform for filmmakers and audiences to engage in meaningful dialogues.

Discover the fun of Singapore’s cityscapes, street foods, and entertainment. This guide helps you make the most of your time, whether it’s a few days or weeks. From night markets to world-class performances, Singapore has it all. Let’s discover the possibilities that await you!

Experience Thrilling Universal Studios

Universal Studios Singapore is a world-class theme park on Sentosa Island, Singapore. It offers a thrilling experience to visitors with its exciting rides, shows, and attractions inspired by popular movies such as Transformers, Jurassic Park, and Shrek.

How to get there: To reach Universal Studios Singapore by public transport, take the MRT to HarbourFront Station and transfer to the Sentosa Express monorail to the Waterfront Station, then follow the signs to Universal Studios.

Tickets: You can buy Universal Studios tickets online or at the park entrance. VIP passes, Universal Express passes, and multi-park tickets are available for unique experiences, shorter wait times, and access to nearby attractions, respectively.

Click here to know more

Insider Tip: Arrive early and visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and long queues. Make sure to put on comfortable clothes and footwear, and keep yourself adequately hydrated. Finally, end your day with the spectacular fireworks display at the Hollywood Lagoon!

 

Explore Singapore’s Nightlife

The city takes on a new vibe when the sun sets in Singapore. Singapore is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and discos to choose from. Here are some venues you can experience Singapore’s nightlife:

  1. Zouk: This iconic club has been a mainstay of Singapore’s club scene for decades.

Click here to know more

  1. Marquee Singapore: This high-end club features celebrity DJs and bottle service.

Click here to know more

  1. The CÉ LA VI SkyBar: Another amazing rooftop bar option, this one offers luxurious drinks and scenic views of the city.

Click here to know more

Reservation and Pricing: The reservation policies and prices for clubs and bars vary by venue and event. Book in advance, especially for famous clubs and during peak hours. Check their respective websites or social media pages for specific information on operating hours, pricing, menu options, reservations, and VIP packages.

Insider Tip: Dress to impress! Most clubs and bars in Singapore have a dress code, so dress appropriately. Avoid wearing slippers, shorts, and tank tops.

Discover The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

 

Located in the heart of Singapore’s downtown area, The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a premier performing arts center that offers numerous entertainment options. The venue, with its world-class facilities and stunning waterfront views, hosts various performances, including music concerts, theater productions, dance shows, and comedy acts. The center also features several restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect destination for a night out on the town.

If you are planning to visit the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, check their website  to plan your visit and explore their events and tours.

How to get there: Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is conveniently located near the Esplanade MRT station.

Laugh Out Loud: Exploring Singapore’s Comedy Scene

If you’re in the mood for some laughs, Singapore has plenty of options for you. Check out:

  1. Comedy Masala: This popular comedy club hosts regular shows featuring both local and international comedians on Tuesdays at HERO’s.

Click here to know more

  1. East Coast Comedy at Crane: Another fun option for comedy fans, this club hosts events every Friday.

Click here to know more

Insider tip: If you’re looking for a more intimate comedy experience, check out the improv shows put on by The Improv Company. They offer shows in various locations around the city, so be sure to check their website for more information.

Rolling the Dice: Singapore’s Casinos

For those who love to gamble, Singapore is home to two world-class casinos:

  1. Marina Bay Sands: This iconic landmark is known for its massive casino, luxury hotel, and stunning rooftop infinity pool.

Click here to know more

  1. Resorts World Sentosa: This popular casino destination offers various gaming options and entertainment, including Universal Studios Singapore.

Click here to know more

Insider tip: If you are a Singapore citizen and Permanent resident, you will have to pay daily and annual entry levy fees. If you are a Foreigner, there is no entry levy.

Lights, Camera, Action: Singapore’s Sound and Light Shows

 

One of the highlights of Singapore’s entertainment scene is its spectacular sound and light shows. Here are some recommended events you can explore:

  1. Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show: This popular show features a stunning display of water, light, and music.

Click here to know more

Insider tip: For the Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show, try getting a spot on the Helix Bridge for a beautiful view.

  1. Spectra Light and Water Show: Another impressive display of fountains, lasers, and music, this show takes place at Marina Bay Sands.

Click here to know more

  1. Wings of Time: This multimedia show at Sentosa Island features dazzling special effects, water displays, and fireworks.

Click here to know more

  1. Garden Rhapsody: If you’re a fan of nature, you’ll love this light and sound show at Gardens by the Bay.

Click here to know more

  1. Sing Your Heart Out at Singapore’s KTV

 

If you love karaoke, you’ll be pleased to know that Singapore has a thriving KTV scene. Here are some places to belt out your favorite tunes:

  1. Teo Heng KTV Studio: This popular KTV chain has locations all over Singapore and is known for its affordable prices and cozy rooms.

Features: Teo Heng KTV Studio is known for its affordable prices, clean and cozy rooms, and excellent sound systems. They offer a wide selection of English, Chinese, and even some Japanese and Korean songs. Furthermore, patrons are allowed to bring their own food and beverages.

Click here to know more

  1. Manekineko: Another popular KTV chain, Manekineko offers various rooms and packages.

Features: Manekineko offers a variety of room sizes, ranging from small rooms for two people to large rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people. They have a comprehensive song list that includes popular hits from various genres and languages. Manekineko also offers packages that include food and drinks.

Click here to know more

  1. Party World KTV: This KTV chain offers private rooms, food and drinks, and a wide selection of songs.

Features: Party World KTV offers private rooms with different themes and sizes, as well as a variety of food and drinks to choose from. They have a wide selection of songs in various languages, including English, Chinese, Malay, and more. They also have a live band option for those who want to sing with a live band.

Click here to know more

Enjoy the Annual Entertainment Events

Why not check out the incredible annual events while enjoying entertainment in Singapore?  Here are a few of Singapore’s most popular annual events:

  1. Singapore Grand Prix: For motorsport fans, this event is super fun in Singapore, while enjoying thrilling races with some of the world’s most distinguished drivers!

Place and Time: At Marina Bay Street Circuit every September

Click here to know more

  1. Singapore Night Festival: This is another popular annual event, featuring art installations, performances, and light displays throughout the city.

Place and Time: Bras Basah-Bugis precinct of the city for two weeks in August or September

Tickets: Admission to the festival is free, although some performances and activities may require tickets or reservations in advance.

Click here to know more

  1. Chingay Parade: This yearly event features elaborate costumes, dancing, and bright decorations, making it a perfect event for the whole family!

Time: Around Chinese New Year

To know more about their events, check their official website.

  • Singapore International Festival of Arts: This premier arts event brings together international and local artists to showcase their work, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts.

Place and Time: Performances are held at various venues throughout the city in August and September.

Tickets: Tickets for the Singapore International Festival of Arts can be booked through their official website, which provides information on performances and ticket purchase details.

  1. Singapore Food Festival: The Singapore Food Festival celebrates the city-state’s culinary heritage with workshops, tastings, and cooking demos by renowned chefs. Highlights include the Hawker Spotlight and the Singapore Tea Festival.

Place and Time: Events at various locations throughout the city in July.

Insider Tip: If you want to get the most out of these events, try to get a good spot, so you can have a good view of the floats and performers.

Relish the Cultural Performances

Are you looking for an authentic cultural experience on your trip to Singapore? Two of the most popular are Chinese Opera and Malay Dance. You can experience a night of quality entertainment at world-class venues like Victoria Theater or Jubilee Hall.

Opening Hours, Reservation, and Pricing: Opening hours and timings may vary depending on the venue and show schedule. It’s recommended to verify by either checking their website or contacting them beforehand. Reservations may also be required, especially for popular shows.

Relax at the Spas and Wellness Retreats

 

Singapore offers a range of options for a relaxing spa and wellness retreat, including the award-winning Auriga Spa in the luxurious Capella Hotel or the nature-inspired So Spa, nestled within Sentosa Island. Both spas offer a range of massages and treatments. Bookings are recommended to secure your desired time and therapy.

Indulge in a spa experience at the luxurious Auriga Spa in the Capella Hotel (book now) or the nature-inspired So Spa on Sentosa Island (book now).

Insider Tip: Experience Singapore’s traditional Asian treatments like Shiatsu, Thai Massage, and Ayurveda to involve in the local wellness culture.

Singapore offers different experiences, from beach relaxation to lively nightlife and numerous events and attractions. With a mix of lesser-known areas and iconic landmarks, you are in for an amazing experience.

Scroll to Top