Beautrice Oh
Chow Cheng YangWith the end of the year coming up, there are plenty of holiday events in Singapore to fill your calendar! From a fireworks musical and a world-class carnival to gorgeous light shows and beach countdowns — the holiday season promises to be a time of fun and celebration.
If you’re finding yourself in a bit of a dilemma, fear not! We’ve got many neat ideas to keep busy during the 2023 holiday season in Singapore. Without further ado, here are the best holiday events in Singapore to spice up your holiday season.
Also read: How to Have 10 Long Weekends in Singapore in 2024 (Bonus Calendar & Cheatsheet!)
Experience the best Christmas events in Singapore
1. Be enchanted by the animals and digital displays at Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Image courtesy of Mandai Wildlife Group
Kicking off our list of holiday events in Singapore, Mandai Wildlife Reserve offers a beguiling digital experience, Secret Wild-erland, from now till 17 Mar 2024! This celebration of wildlife takes over River Wonders — with a captivating projection show in the Amazon Flooded Forest in front of the aquarium’s dolphins and manatees. And at night, the party continues at Night Safari’s East Lodge with a fun and educational interactive display of native wildlife!
Image courtesy of Mandai Wildlife Group
Moreover, Night Safari’s Tipi Tent has been transformed into a Mystical Bar with a special dining experience, featuring drinks and bites prepared by local bar Jekyll and Hyde. Sip on some fine cocktails while admiring the projections of New Zealand’s Southern Lights. If you visit the bar from now till 31 Dec 2023, you’ll stand a chance to win a return trip for the family to New Zealand, or other prizes like wildlife tours.
2. Celebrate the festivities at Marina Square
Image courtesy of Brand Cellar
Marina Square turns into a magical wonderland this Christmas! From now till 1 Jan 2024, the central atrium will be decorated with brightly coloured photo spots featuring the lovable characters from Sanrio. So, this is one of the best Christmas events in Singapore for taking festive pictures. You’ll also be able to meet some of these characters at the Meet and Greet sessions from now till 17 Dec 2023, so drop by and say hi to Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, and Gudetama!And if you’re still looking for presents for your loved ones, why not check out the Sanrio Merchandise Fair? We’re sure you’ll find the perfect gift!
3. Experience the magic of Christmas Wonderland in Gardens by the Bay
Since its debut in 2014, the annual Christmas Wonderland has been an integral part of Christmas celebration in Singapore. From now till 1 Jan 2024, soak up the magical atmosphere as the most popular holiday event in Singapore returns to Gardens by the Bay. There are plenty of things to do at Christmas Wonderland — from taking photos with the dazzling lights and “snow,” to hopping on the amusement rides and even shop for your Secret Santa presents at the Mistletoe Alley!
Also read: 22 Photoshoot Locations in Singapore That You Never Thought Of
4. Smell the holiday blooms at the Flower Dome in Gardens by the Bay
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay Official Website
Moving to the Gardens’ innovative domes; The Flower Dome’s year-end yuletide display, Poinsettia Wishes — A Nordic Christmas Adventure returns, promising visitors an exciting voyage to a Viking-themed wonderland. Expect cute miniature Vikings and warriors hiding amongst the Christmas fir trees and a floral display of over 20 types of poinsettias. In the spirit and season of giving, why not take part in the terrarium-making workshop? There, you’ll create a personalised terrarium using sand art and air plants to give to children in recovery in the local hospitals.
5. Pose with some of the largest POPMart installations
Image courtesy of CapitaLand
To POP MART fans: Your dreams of seeing live-sized pop mart figurines have come true! During this festive season, you’ll find some larger-than-life Disney-inspired POP MART installations across the 16 CapitaLand malls islandwide. Snap some pictures with these picture-worthy installations at one of the top Christmas events in Singapore this year, or hop on the multi-sensory Enchanted Express train installation at Raffles City Singapore and Plaza Singapura! Plus, there’s a wide selection of merchandise, collectables, and art toys at the POP MART stores. So, might as well get yourself a little gift to celebrate the holiday season.
6. Celebrate Christmas on A Great Street 2023
Image credit: Visit Singapore Official Website
Amongst the long list of lively Christmas events in Singapore, A Great Street is back again for its 2023 instalment! From now till 1 Jan 2024, Orchard Road’s iconic, glittering light displays are lit up nightly, drawing in both tourists and locals. Keep an eye out for the multimedia augmented reality projection of the Christmas storyline against the Hilton Singapore Orchard building as well! Additionally, drop by the three Christmas villages located at Shaw House Urban Plaza, Plaza Singapura, and Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza — where live performances, pop-up stores, and carnival games and rides await.
Most notably, this year brings us A Great Street’s The Christmas Eve Street Party on 24 Dec 2023. Countdown to Christmas with joyful carols, Santa Meet & Greet sessions, a market, and food trucks.
Also read: A Shopping Paradise: The Best Malls in Singapore to Shop Till You Drop
7. Dive into the Christmas festivities at Wisma Atria Spellbinding Aquatic Wonderland
Image credit: Wisma Atria Official Facebook Page
Whilst doing your Christmas shopping along the busy Orchard Road, do stop by Wisma Atria to admire the grand installations that are ongoing till 25 Dec 2023! This year’s edition offers fantastical marine-themed installations on the Level 2 outdoor space, with a unique tree design symbolising good fortune as its centrepiece. Also, expect live performances, artists meet and greet sessions, and exclusive mall promotions!
8. Be transported into a pink wonderland at the Museum of Ice Cream
Image credit: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM SG Official Facebook Page
The holidays promise to be a time of delicious desserts and drinks. If you’re looking to satisfy your Christmas cravings, look no further! The Museum of Ice Cream’s Pinkmas is back again with its unlimited festive treats and interactive installations. At the Pinkmas experience, you’ll enjoy a selection of sweet treats from the limited edition holiday menu, as well as interactive experiences — including fun-filled carolling!
9. Soak in the Christmas spirit at The Capitol and CHIJMES
Image courtesy of Brand Cellar
When it comes to holiday events in Singapore, CHIJMES and Capitol bring some Christmas joy to the Civic District area. Expect festive music, magical snowfall, and tons of exciting activities that are ongoing till 23 December 2023!
Image courtesy of Brand Cellar
CHIJMES is completely decked out in a festive affair, with projection mappings of classic Christmas scenes that make for stunning backgrounds for family photos. Enjoy the melodious tunes by the roving carollers and bands at The Lawn, or catch a flick at the Movie Night Under The Stars!
10. Get your adrenaline pumping at Universal Studios Singapore
Image courtesy of Access Comms
This is one for thrill-seekers. Universal Studios Singapore is known to celebrate the festivities with holiday-themed events. This Christmas, USS puts a unique twist on the holiday with the event, A Universal Christmas. Besides the usual adrenaline-pumping rides the theme park is known for, this event promises live circus acts, Christmas parades, and more. Be sure to catch special performances by Santa and his talented ensemble of over 40 performers, ongoing till 1 Jan 2024!
11. Explore adorable larger-than-life decorations at Changi Festive Village
Image credit: Changi Airport Official Website
We know, the festive season is almost synonymous with travelling, and celebrating Christmas overseas is a dream that many of us have. But before you fly off, you can already get the festivities started at Changi Airport’s Changi Festive Village. Enter a Candy Wonderland and snap photos of the giant polar bear and sweet confectionaries at the Terminal 3 Departure Hall, or play some carnival games located in the basement. You can even play with snow at the Candy Show House, an ice-themed playground!
If you’re doing some Christmas shopping at Jewel, enjoy the magical daily snowfall at Shiseido Forest Valley and Canopy Park, or the HSBC Rain Vortex Light & Sound Show, both running multiple times daily.
12. Skate alongside your loved ones at RollerMania 3.0
Image courtesy of White Lab PR
Within the stunning list of holiday events in Singapore, RollerMania 3.0 promises an action-packed good time! Plaza Singapura’s Carpark on Level 7 has been transformed into a vibrant, neon-drenched skating rink. From now till 1 Jan 2024, you’ll be able to glide across the rink freely while vibing to the music. Don’t miss out on the pop-up arcade by TimeZone, carnival rides, and playground that will keep you entertained for several hours!
13. Put on your thinking caps at Chaos Lab in Changi Airport Terminal 2
Image courtesy of Fever, Chaos Lab
Unleash your inner scientist this holiday at Changi Airport Terminal 2’s Chaos Lab! At this trending Christmas in Singapore, you’ll become an “intern” to the wacky mad scientist Dr Splat as you perform a series of experiments that encourage creativity and exploration. From the exciting activities available like the Gravity Wall and AR Sand, to the entertaining slime station — this is the place for kids and the young at heart! This science-inspired and fun event runs till the second quarter of 2024.
14. Take part in the Christmas festivities at various heartland malls
Image courtesy of Brand Cellar
The Christmas spirit can be felt all throughout the island, as the Chilly Frosty Adventure is brought to the heartlands! Enjoy the chilly “snow” at Jurong Point, Swing By @ Thomson Plaza, and AMK Hub from now till 31 Dec 2023. Apart from the immersive winter decorations and charming Christmas-themed photo spots, expect some fun activities!
Unleash your creativity by making mocktails at the Mocktail Bar Dome and clay photo frames at the Clay Photo Frame Making Workshop. Don’t forget to capture your precious memories at the Photo Booth Dome and 360° Spin Dome!
15. Check out the Smurfs-themed Christmas tree along Quayside Isle @ Sentosa Cove
Image courtesy of White Label PR
Celebrating Christmas along the pristine sands of Sentosa is definitely loads of fun! In particular, Quayside Isle @ Sentosa Cove is all decked out in festive cheer until 31 Dec 2023. Walk through an enchanting wonderland with a dazzling Smurfs-themed Christmas tree at the Fountain Plaza. There are also live performances by local and international artists in the evenings, as well as delectable gourmet cuisine along Quayside Isle.
Fun ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Singapore
16. Ring in the New Year at Marina Bay
Image credit: Marina Bay Singapore Official Facebook Page
Marina Bay is the highlight location of New Year’s Eve in Singapore, with an annual concert and fireworks display. The iconic New Year celebration, Let’s Celebrate 2024, is once again at The Promontory on 31 Dec 2023. Expect a star-stunned lineup of local and regional artists and jaw-dropping performances that will end your year on a high note!
Plus, what better way to usher in the New Year than by an exhilarating go-kart race? TurboCharged is transforming the Marina Bay, Bayfront Event Space into a new, immersive go-kart arena from 14 Dec to 31 Dec 2023. Take part in some action-packed races or chill out at the rooftop deck right next to the track.
17. Catch a fireworks musical in Marina Bay
Image courtesy of AVEX Asia
There is no better way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Singapore than counting down in the iconic Marina Bay. This year’s fireworks musical spectacular, STAR ISLAND promises a sensory feast! Purchase a ticket to enjoy the performances and pyrotechnics choreographed to an immersive soundtrack. Prepare to be dazzled by a world-class symphony of 400 drones and a spectacular fireworks display as you ring in the New Year!
18. Party through the night at Siloso Beach Party
Image credit: dronepicr
Looking for other exciting ways to cap off the holiday season in Singapore? Head over to the famous Siloso Beach Party at Sentosa. This raging celebration started in 2007 and continues to attract many party-goers today. Party from dusk till dawn amidst amazing fireworks to adrenaline-pumping EDM. Undoubtedly, the Siloso Beach Party is the ideal way to countdown to the New Year!
Also read: The Most Scenic Beach Bars in Singapore
19. Spend the evening at Pullman Singapore Hill Street’s hottest bars
Image courtesy of Pullman Singapore Hill Street
Thinking about what to do on New Year’s Eve in Singapore? There are tons of exciting countdown parties with various themes and lively music! Amongst this long list of countdown events, Pullman Singapore Hill Street has several bars hosting the hottest New Year’s parties. MOGA boasts Japanese-inspired cocktails and spirits, whilst you can feast on some delectable Mexica fare at El Chido! There’s even a piñata smash for a chance to win prizes.
20. Have a New Years’ Eve feast at Kinki Restaurant
Image courtesy of Kinki Restaurant + Bar
On 31 Dec 2023, Kinki Restaurant + Bar is kicking in the New Year with some spectacular dinner package deals! Located in the heart of Marina Bay, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the annual firework display while feasting on their course set dinners or sipping on a mix of champagne and spirits at the rooftop bar!
21. Attend a New Year’s Party at Mount Faber Peak
Image credit: Sentosa Official Website
On 31 Dec 2023, Mount Faber Peak will morph into the pinnacle of New Year celebrations! At 100m above sea level, this extraordinary hilltop destination offers spectacular views of the Singapore skyline. Immerse in dance performances and stunning fireworks while sipping on your alcohol of choice. Partying here is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in Singapore!
22. Enjoy a private countdown at Singapore Flyer
Image credit: joyt via Canva Pro
The Singapore Flyer is one of the most iconic attractions in Singapore. To nobody’s surprise, it’s also a great way to spend New Year’s Eve. Watch the skyline light up with a myriad of colourful fireworks from the comfort of a spacious capsule for a relaxing countdown. You can even book their New Year’s Eve Countdown Champagne Special to toast the start of 2024 with champagne and delectable desserts!
Also read: 11 Overlooking Restaurants & Bars in Singapore With the Best Views
23. Explore the Civic District
Image credit: William Cho
The Civic District is another popular destination for holiday events in Singapore. This iconic area features many historical, architectural and cultural gems. During New Year’s Eve, this historic spot bursts into life and greets visitors with vibrant music, exciting parties, tantalising food, and more. What’s more, you can even catch free movie screenings and fitness dance parties!
24. Watch the fireworks at Ce La Vi’s rooftop bar
Image credit: CÉ LA VI Official Facebook Page
Last but not least, celebrate the new year in style at the glamorous Ce La Vi, one of the island’s most luxurious bars! Located in the iconic Marina Bay Sands, the restaurant’s rooftop seating offers a top-notch view of the fireworks. Imagine enjoying an exquisite feast while watching the new year’s fireworks against the Singapore skyline — now, that’s a way to ring in the new year!
Also read: Singapore MRT Guide: One Attraction Near Each Popular Station
And that concludes our list of the best holiday events in Singapore! The December holidays are a time of celebration, filled with many exciting New Year’s and Christmas activities. Rest assured, there are many activities to fill up your holiday calendar however you prefer!
Facebook image credit: Gardens By The Bay | Official Website; kjorgen via Canva Pro
