Jeremiah PatrickMarking down your travel calendar for the next holiday season? Save that top spot for Singapore, because the Lion City’s got an incredible lineup of exciting events to make your next holiday unforgettable. Whether you’re an aesthete looking for inspiration, a diehard sports fan, or simply searching for a fun family getaway, we’ve compiled a list of must-see events in Singapore for your next trip.
Must-see events in Singapore for everyone!
1. Singapore for art lovers
ART SG
Image credit: ART SG Official Website
When: 17-19 Jan 2025
Where: Marina Bay Sands
ART SG is part of Singapore’s annual art extravaganza: Singapore Art Week! This is the largest visual art affair in Singapore and a celebration of the nation’s ever-expanding art scene. More than 150 events take place, from avid discussions to exciting walks and immersive tours. On its own, ART SG is undoubtedly Southeast Asia’s most significant global art fair and a keystone event during Singapore Art Week.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a serious art aficionado, or just looking for a fun way to pass time on a weekend, this art exhibition isn’t one to be missed! Feast your eyes on stunning contemporary pieces born from the minds of some of the best artists from within the region and across the globe.
Light to Night Singapore
Image credit: Light to Night Official Facebook Page
When: Jan 2025
Where: Civic District
Watch some of Singapore’s most iconic buildings get a glow-up – literally! Every year, Light to Night Singapore puts on dazzling displays of colours and luminescence that are projected across the National Gallery and Asian Civilization Museum. These Art Skins give the buildings a vibrant, eye-catching look, and invite people to interact with them in new ways. Attendees can also enjoy exciting live performances and savour delicious snacks from a variety of food trucks at this Singapore event.
ARTWALK
Image credit: ARTWALK SG Official Website
When: Jan 2025
Where: Little India and Katong-Joo Chiat
At this Singapore event, embark on a walking tour that sees the streets embellished with exciting interactive installations and experiences. Cultural havens like Little India and Katong-Joo Chiat are transformed into vibrant havens of art filled with awe-inspiring murals and engaging workshops. On top of that, you’ll also be able to enjoy a dynamic combination of live music and captivating performances.
Also read: A Guide to Singapore’s Art Festivals: Singapore Art Week and Other Events For Art Lovers
2. Singapore for cultural explorers
Chinese New Year & Chingay Parade
Image credit: Chinatown Festivals Official Facebook Page
When: Jan – Feb 2025
Where: Chinatown
Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year) is the most significant event in the Chinese calendar. In Singapore, Chinatown is usually festooned with beautiful lanterns and festive decorations. Plenty of exciting activities are held as part of this Singapore event including a street light-up and opening ceremony, a countdown with thrilling firecrackers, a street bazaar and weekend stage shows.
Image credit: Chingay Parade SG Official Website
When: Feb 2025
Where: F1 Pit Building
Another event held during Chinese New Year is the Chingay Parade, usually at the F1 Pit Building. This wondrous Singapore event perfectly captures the multicultural spirit of the nation and is celebrated by Singaporeans from all walks of life. Expect to see a marvellous range of colourful and exciting performances including magnificently decorated parade floats, stilt walkers, and traditional dance performances.
Hari Raya
Image credit: Raikan Cahaya Ramadan 2023
When: 2 Mar – 5 Apr 2024 (Kampong Gelam), 8 Mar – 9 Apr 2024 (Geylang Serai)
Where: Kampong Gelam and Geylang Serai
Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a period of sober repentance when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. In the month leading up to Hari Raya (also known as Eid), Geylang Serai is decked out with bright and colourful lights to ignite the festive spirit. In addition to that, a bazaar is held that involves over 500 retail and F&B stalls. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Sultan Mosque at Kampong Gelam as well, to admire a spectacular light show.
Deepavali
Image credit: LiSHA Official Facebook Page
When: Oct – Nov 2024
Where: Little India
Deepavali is a traditional Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. During this celebration, Singapore’s Little India comes to life with a beautiful street light-up and stunning festive installations. Be sure to visit the Deepavali Festival Village during this Singapore event for an epic bazaar brimming with festive snacks like murukku (twirly crispy snacks) and adhirasam (sweet doughnuts).
For a deeper understanding of the culture, check out Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. This is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, built in 1855. Covered in colourful statues and intricate details, it is certainly one of the most spectacular places of worship in Singapore.
Also read: 9 Unmissable Festivals and Events That Celebrate Singapore’s Cultural Diversity
3. Singapore for sports fans
Singapore T100
Image credit: PTO Asian Open
When: 12-14 April 2024
Where: Marina Bay
Get ready to explore the city during this Singapore event through running and cycling in an unforgettable duathlon experience. The 2024 Singapore T100 Triathlon World Tour will take place on an iconic course in the heart of Singapore. Involved roads will be closed to traffic, allowing participants to enjoy a stunning Marina Bay backdrop as they take on a one-of-a-kind race that’s not to be missed!
HSBC SVNS
Image credit: HSBC SVNS Official Website
When: 3 – 5 May 2024
Where: Singapore National Stadium
Calling all rugby fans! The best teams in the world are about to duke it out at this Singapore event this May at the HSBC SVNS. Held at the Singapore National Stadium, pro teams will be pitted against each other in two days of exhilarating matchups to be crowned the HSBC SVNS 2024 champions.
The World Rugby Sevens is an annual sporting event where loyal fans show up in droves to support their favourite gladiators in the gentleman’s sport of rugby. Across the events’ ten legs, Singapore holds the honour of playing host to the eighth and is the only country in Southeast Asia to do so.
Grand Prix Season Singapore
Image credit: Singapore Tourism Board
When: Sep 2024
Where: Sentosa, Orchard Road, Clarke Quay & Kampong Gelam
When race season comes rocketing around the corner, all of Singapore revs to life in celebration! Grand Prix Season Singapore is a Singapore event celebrating speed and glory that spans four unique precincts in Singapore. There’s the heart-pounding, adrenaline-soaked experience of watching the races itself, but the fun also extends beyond the track.
Fans can expect tons of exciting activities and experiences across four unique precincts in Singapore. Expect live music performances and other off-track celebrations, including glamorous precinct parties, food bazaars, and more. But it doesn’t end there. You can also explore race-themed retail and lifestyle popups, or go head-to-head with your friends in state-of-the-art racing simulators.
4. Singapore for foodies
Gastrobeats
Image credit: Gastrobeats Official Facebook Page
When: Typically in Jun
Where: Bayfront Event Space
Gastrobeats is a colourful, community-organised event in Singapore that showcases the rich diversity of Singaporean culture. For one month, it will feature dozens of culinary delights, performances by live bands, and fun activities for all visitors to enjoy.
Image credit: Gastrobeats Official Facebook Page
Over 50 local food vendors will be present at Gastrobeats, serving a combination of classic and modern dishes that’ll take your tastebuds for a wild (and delicious) ride.
Singapore Food Festival
Image credit: Singapore Food Festival Official Facebook Page
When: Typically in Aug
Where: Bayfront Event Space
If you’re looking to discover new and authentic flavours of Singapore, this food festival is the place to be. Get ready for a mouth-watering event that celebrates the best culinary experiences from across the island. There’s so much to see and do at this Singapore event! Food Walk is a curated village that brings together over 50 hawkers and restaurants to give visitors a taste of Singapore’s ever-evolving culinary scene.
Image credit: Singapore Food Festival Official Facebook Page
Besides that, check out the Food Cartel for an immersive experience that includes popups, bar concepts, and masterclasses featuring popular Singaporean chefs and personalities. There are also tons of other workshops and attractions to explore, like the Gourmet Market, which has a stunning spread of premium meats, cheeses, wines, and more.
5. Singapore for entertainment seekers
Concerts and musicals
It’s time to sing the praises of Singapore’s vibrant music scene! Fans of the theatre can watch their favourite musicals at world-class theatres and venues across the island. For example, Hamilton and Matilda at Marina Bay Sands, Disney on Ice at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, and Madagascar at Esplanade – Theaters on the Bay. But the fun doesn’t stop there.
Image credit: @brunomars
You can also watch your favourite idols live in concert, thanks to Singapore’s robust lineup of concerts all year round. World-famous pop icon Bruno Mars is set to perform at the Singapore National Stadium on 3, 5, and 6 Apr 2024. Watch out for many more artists coming to perform as the year goes on like K-pop girl group Itzy, Niall Horan, and LANY.
Also read: Why Singapore is One of the Best Entertainment Destinations in the World You Can Visit
Singapore Comic Con
Image credit: Singapore Comic Con (SGCC) Official Facebook Page
When: 7 – 8 Dec 2024
Where: Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Pop culture junkies and comic book lovers; welcome to paradise! Join thousands of fans and cosplayers as they showcase their creativity and passion in pitch-perfect costumes as a tribute to their favourite characters. Whether you’re there to meet your favourite cosplayers or shop for comics, this exciting family-friendly event has something for everyone. There’s also plenty of other merchandise you can get your hands on like toys, collectibles, and clothing.
6. Singapore for family fun
Christmas on a Great Street
Image credit: Orchard Road Official Facebook Page
When: Dec 2024
Where: Orchard Road
Prepare for a world of holiday cheer as Orchard Road lights up as a festive wonderland with a Christmas on a Great Street. The streets are illuminated by dazzling arches and beautiful decorations. Christmas tunes ring out in the air, and the fun continues with the Great Christmas Village. At this Singapore event, visitors can enjoy thrilling carnival rides, try delicious snacks from food trucks, and discover exciting pop-up stores. There’s also the Great Christmas Eve Party on the 24 Dec, a lively affair that includes performances from local dancers, Christmas carollers, and live bands.
Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay Official Facebook Page
When: Dec 2024
Where: Gardens by the Bay
If you’re in search of a magical time for the entire family, look no further than Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay. Look forward to incredible light and sound displays, tasty festive fare, and an epic appearance by jolly old Santa Claus himself. Children and adults alike will enjoy a range of classic carnival games like ring toss, bumper cars, and the carousel ride.
On top of that, you can wrap up your visit with a round of Christmas shopping at a European-style outdoor market with a wide selection of unique crafts and gifts from local entrepreneurs. Don’t miss out on this festive Singapore event!
Marina Bay Singapore Countdown
Image credit: Marina Bay Sands Official Facebook Page
When: 31 Dec 2024
Where: Marina Bay
Bring in the New Year in style with an epic countdown at Marina Bay Singapore! Dazzling bursts of fireworks light up the skyline and reflect off the rippling waters, creating a bright tapestry of renewal and hope. Plenty of other fun activities await like go-karting, pop-up playgrounds, and concerts. The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown marks the perfect way to countdown towards a new year and new possibilities.
It’s safe to say that any trip to Singapore will if nothing else, be eventful in all the best ways possible. With a parade of must-see festivals and seasonal happenings stretching on year after year, all that’s left for you to do is head over and check them out in person. It’s time to pack a bag!
Does this lineup of incredible events make you want to plan a trip to Singapore? Whether it’s sampling delicious local cuisine, dressing up as your favourite pop culture characters, or partying the night away in style, there’s never a shortage of amazing things to do in the Lion City. For more year-round events and festivals, Visit Singapore.
Brought to you by Singapore Tourism Board
