Despite being a small island country, there’s definitely no lack of things to do in Singapore. This vibrant city-state is often buzzy with pop-up events and exhibitions that engage locals and tourists alike. From dining at the newest cafes, restaurants and hawker centres to museum hopping, you’ll certainly find activities to do for the weekend. Read on for our picks on things to do and see in Singapore in December 2023.
What to do in Singapore – December 2023
Magic Hour @ Raffles Hotel Singapore
Bask in the yuletide atmosphere with familiar classic Christmas tunes performed by a brass quintet. Magic Hour is a series of public live musical performances as part of the first-of-its-kind partnership between Raffles Hotel Singapore and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
This month, they’ll present a yuletide-themed Magic Hour performance which includes tunes Jingle Bells, Frosty the Snowman, and We Wish You A Merry Christmas, that perfectly encapsulates the Christmas spirit.
Magic Hour @ Raffles Hotel Singapore happens on 9 December at The Lawn, Raffles Arcade. Admission is free.
Space Fest @EXPO
It may be impossible to live in space, but you can experience aspects of it on Earth at Space Fest. This intergalactic playground will take visitors on a journey through the galaxy with over 20 space-themed family-friendly carnival experiences, including exhilarating rides and interactive craft activities for kids from ages 2 and above.
Jam to tunes at the Space Beats stage with a stellar roster of upbeat live performances and stage entertainment from Jive Talkin’, Shaggies and The ETC.
Space Fest @ EXPO happens from 2 to 31 December at Hall 6, Singapore EXPO.
ZoukOut 2023
Rave to euphoric sounds played by international and local talents and immerse in visual spectaculars at ZoukOut 2023. This year’s headlining act is Swedish EDM legend and producer Alesso, who is known for fist-pumping hits like ‘Heroes (We Could Be)’, ‘Under Control’, ‘I Wanna Know’ (featuring Nico & Vinz), ‘Chasing Stars’, and many more.
Other artists in the line-up include ACRAZE, CARTA, FISHER (who’ll make his Singapore debut), ILLENIUM, and Martin Garrix. Expect to party from sunset to sunrise and have a memorable weekend at this iconic festival.
ZoukOut 2023 happens on December 2 to 3 at Siloso Beach in Sentosa.
What to do in Singapore – November 2023
Immersive Disney Animation at Sands Theatre
Ever wonder how Mickey and iconic characters from the Disney empire attain their charming personalities? Discover what goes behind the scenes at Immersive Disney Animation, which celebrates 100 years of Disney animation excellence.
The Sands Theatre will be transformed into a hybrid of an immersive, 3D environment where characters and songs from over 60 of Disney’s iconic animated films will lead visitors through a century of scenes iconic scenes. In this nearly 90-minute experience, visitors will get to explore the art, music and animation techniques that have brought timeless classics like The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan, and The Lion King to life.
Immersive Disney Animation happens from 18 November at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands.
UNIQLO Singapore’s bi-annual Thank You Festival returns
Score worthy deals and get first dibs on exciting new launches at UNIQLO Singapore’s upcoming Thank You Festival. Returning from 24 to 30 November, the global retailer shows appreciation to the community and customers by offering attractive limited offers for their LifeWear essentials, free novelty gifts, and new UTme! designs.
If you’re in any UNIQLO Singapore stores (except Changi Airpot Terminal 1), take part in sure-win giveaways after nabbing pieces from the all-new Sanrio collection and restocked fan-favourite Studio Ghibli collaboration.
UNIQLO Singapore’s Thank You Festival happens from 24 to 30 November at all Uniqlo stores island-wide.
Book your stay at Hotel Telegraph in Singapore via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Hotel Telegraph in Singapore via Booking.com
Sentosa Music Fest 2023
Music aficionados will want to add Sentosa’s inaugural music festival to their calendar. Spanning close to two months, Sentosa Music Fest will feature unique beach-front events and intimate performances across a spectrum of musical genres from electrifying EDM beats, classic Yuletide carols, and hypnotic jazz rhythms.
Here’s what to expect – Rave to pulsating tunes at DJ Spin-Off (25 November) and ZoukOut 2023 (2-3 December), unwind at Jazz by the Cove (8-17 December), sing-a-long with loved ones at Sentosa Christmas (24 November-3 January), and lastly, party to high energy hit songs at Sentosa Countdown Party – presented by Mastercard®️ (31 December).
Sentosa Music Fest 2023 happens from 10 November 2023 to 3 January 2024 at various locations in Sentosa.
BTS POP-UP: SPACE OF BTS in Singapore
Although the popular South Korean K-pop boyband BTS is currently on hiatus due to members having military commitments, their presence is still very much active in popular culture. Support your bias in the group, snag exclusive merchandise, and immerse in new fan-focused experiences related to the global phenomenon at the BTS POP-UP: SPACE OF BTS in Singapore.
The return of this pop-up offers more Singapore-exclusive merchandise and curation of over 250 sought-after BTS memorabilia like the ARTIST-MADE Collection by BTS, BTS Special 8 Photo-Folio, photo-taking opportunities with the latest 2023 BTS FESTA family portrait, and more.
BTS POP-UP: SPACE OF BTS in Singapore will happen from 25 November 2023 to 21 January 2024 at Orchard Cineleisure.
Casa Vostra pop-up at Ann Siang Hill
Nothing beats freshly served pizza out of the woodfire oven. Acclaimed Italian casual dining joint Casa Vostra, known for its delivery-only concept, will be operating a two-month physical store pop-up starting November 4 till the end of 2023. Transforming a shophouse into an Italian bistro on the weekends, Chef Antonio and his team will serve pizzas and other signature dishes a-la-minute, alongside homemade Italian pasta, gelato and refreshing sips.
Enjoy “Newpolitan®” pizzas – an interpretation of traditional Neapolitan styles with a signature dough made from select Italian white and brown flours – with toppings like Prosciutto e Funghi, Tartufata or the pop-up exclusive Sausage and onion. Other exclusives include the DoubleCrunch® Smoked Salmon and Burrata & Rocket hybrid flavours and garlicky Vongole pasta.
Casa Vostra’s pop-up will happen from November 4 to December 31 at 8 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069788, This pop-up operates from Friday to Sunday only with opening hours from 11am – 10pm.
Book your stay at Hilton Singapore Orchard in Singapore via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Hilton Singapore Orchard in Singapore via Booking.com
Related Stories
Mars: The Red Mirror
Discover more about the enigmatic Mars in a blockbuster exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. Presented by the ArtScience Museum and the Centre of Contemporary Culture Barcelona (CCCB) and curated by Juan Insua, it is touted to be the most comprehensive historical and cultural showcase of the Red Planet,
This Asian premiere of Mars: The Red Mirror examines depictions of Mars throughout history and across cultures from ancient Greece to Asia while featuring over 300 objects, including rare scientific manuscripts, sculptures, historical artefacts, films, contemporary artworks, and even an authentic Martian meteorite.
Mars: The Red Mirror happens at ArtScience Museum from 25 November 2023 to 7 April 2024.
Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) 2023
There’s no better place to catch a series of acclaimed flix than at the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) 2023. The upcoming 34th edition will feature over 100 films across 50 countries, including the Grand Prize winner at Cannes’ Critics’ Week, Tiger Stripes. It marks the first Malaysian film to win the award, which depicts the coming-of-age story of 12-year-old Zaffan discovering secrets to her body.
Other notable screenings include the world premiere of A Year Of No Significance by Singaporean director Kelvin Tong, Chong Keat Aun’s Golden Horse Award nominee film Snow in Midsummer, and Yoon Eun-kyong’s The Tenants. Film buffs can also catch three Singaporean films nominated for the Asian Feature Film Competition – Tomorrow Is A Long Time by Jow Zhi Wei, Dreaming & Dying by Nelson Yeo, and Last Shadow At First Light by Nicole Midori Woodford.
Famed Chinese actress Fan Bing Bing will grace the opening night of SGIFF 2023 and be part of an exclusive forum to share film industry insights and experiences. She will also be presented the Cinema Icon Award 2023 during this festival on December 2.
Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) 2023 happens from November 30 to December 10 at various locations in Singapore.
Old Fashioned Month with Woodford Reserve
Who says having an Old Fashioned is stuffy and unstylish? The classic drink is getting honoured this month thanks to Woodford Reserve. Bartenders from Singapore and Malaysia showcase their unique take on the classic Old Fashioned using Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at the inaugural The Wonderful Race competition.
The shortlisted Singaporean bartenders hail from MO Bar, Sugarhall, Employees Only, Burnt Ends Bars, Potato Head, Brooklyn Bar, Junior The Pocket Bar, Maison Ikkoku, Sago House, and Wine Creek. In addition, their competition drinks are available from now till the end of November. On November 5, these competing bartenders will gather at PLUME to present their unique cocktail creations for judging and the country finalist will take part in The Wonderful Race Asia Grand Finale.
Woodford Reserve’s Old Fashioned Month drinks will be available till November 30 at selected participating bars.
The Second Act series by Chef World Tour
For selected dates in October, renowned chefs Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza and Chef Ben Ing (both with stints at Noma) will cook up a storm in the legendary Bar & Billiard Room (BBR) at Raffles Hotel Singapore.
Chef Luis kicks off October with his richly-flavoured inventive creations. The South Californian native who grew up in a Mexican household has worked at many three-Michelin-starred establishments like Alinea, Maaemo, and El Cellar de Can Roca before Noma. His restaurant, ARCA Tulum, is the first property in the world to rank on both the 50 Best Restaurant and Bar list.
Taking over the baton is Chef Ben who hails from Canada and carved a niche for himself at Eleven Madison Park in New York City, before moving to Noma, where he was Head Chef for six years.
The Second Act series by Chef World Tour happens from October 10 to 15 with Chef Jose Hinostroza. Chef Ben Ing’s session has been postponed to 2024, with dates to be confirmed.
Book your stay at Marina Bay Sands via Booking.com
Book your stay at Marina Bay Sands via Agoda.com
Support mental health awareness with Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation x Cotton On’s special collaboration
Those who’ve followed Lady Gaga’s musical journey would know that the multi-hyphenate is also a big advocate for mental health awareness. Together with her mother, Cynthia Bissett Germanotta, the Born This Way Foundation was created, a US-based non-profit organisation that aims to increase community-based mental health resources for young people and foster kinder communities.
In light of World Mental Health Day coming up on October 10, Lady Gaga has partnered with Cotton On and Cotton On Foundation for a collection of caps, T-shirts, totes, stationery, and a denim jacket, all of which support the campaign’s ‘Kinder, Braver, Together’ ethos. Available from now till October 10, Cotton On will be donating 100% of the net proceeds from this collab to the Born This Way Foundation.
Shop the collection in stores and online here.
Bond over Bee’s Knees Picnic ‘Buzzket’
UNESCO World Heritage Site Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of Singapore’s best spots for a gathering and Bee’s Knees knows this. Hence, they are offering ready-to-set-up kits with everything needed for a perfect picnic.
Each ‘buzzket’ comes with its own reusable mat, cushions, battery-operated candles, and delicious meals for two or four, add-on Chandon Garden Spritz options at SGD 16 (HKD 93) nett (1 glass), SGD 25 (HKD 146) nett (2 glasses), or SGD 58++ (HKD 338++) (bottle). Fur kids aren’t left out too. Top SGD 28 (HKD 163) (two pax) or SGD 20 (HKD 116) (four pax) to get a Dog-friendly Picnic Buzzket that includes dog toys, a dog bowl, treats and a bandana.
Bee’s Knees Picnic ‘Buzzket’ is available to order online via Bee’s Knees at The Garage website.
Now Boarding: Experiencing Singapore through Travel, 1800s–2000s
Singapore is known for its top-notch award-winning airport and national aircraft carrier Singapore Airlines. Wonder what’s the magic behind their success? Head down to this travel-themed exhibition that traces the evolution of Singapore’s identity as a popular travel destination, through the eyes of those who have arrived at our shores from the past to the present.
Through four thematic sections aligned to the themes of transport, accommodation, food and beverage, and sights and shopping, Now Boarding showcases a specially curated selection of ubiquitous material and artefacts evoking powerful memories of travel to and from Singapore. This includes the iconic analogue flip board that was previously located at Changi Airport, as well as a showcase of the history-making Singapore Airlines’ A380 prestigious Suites Cabin seat.
Now Boarding: Experiencing Singapore through Travel, 1800 – 2000s happens at the National Museum of Singapore, Exhibition Gallery, Basement Level, till 25 February 2024. Admission is free for Singaporeans and PRs.
Waga Mari’s Sea Spirits: Sunset Cocktail Cruise by Distilled
There’s no better feeling than holding a well-shaken glass of cocktail in hand while watching the glorious sunset. Waga Mari and Distilled LLP come together to make this picture-perfect setting possible.
On board the 45-foot luxury catamaran Waga Mari (Honour the Sea), guests can enjoy a free flow of food, beverage and live entertainment during the course of its three-hour cruise around the southern islands of Singapore. Of course, the highlight will be the cocktails curated by the bar team from Mortar & Pestle, which is located at The Great Room on South Bridge Road. Expect spirits like Amaro Montenegro, Select Aperitivo, High West Whiskey, Old Young’s Gin and Vodka and Ron Colón Salvadoreño Rum.
Waga Mari’s Sea Spirits: Sunset Cocktail Cruise by Distilled LLP is currently ongoing at an introductory price of SGD 188 (HKD 1,098) nett till June 30. It will cost SGD 228 (HKD 1,332) from July 1 onwards.
Glamping in the Wild at The Singapore Zoo
Connect with nature and animals at The Singapore Zoo via the return of their glamping experience. This refreshed ‘Glamping in the Wild’ programme will feature behind-the-scenes tours like insights into animal healthcare and the working processes at the Wildlife Nutrition Centre. The day ends in your dome tent as Mother Nature coaxes you to sleep with the soothing sounds of the Upper Seletar Reservoir.
Glamping in the Wild happens at The Singapore Zoo from April 1 onwards.
Shop the best travel experiences here
This story first appeared here.
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing.
Related: Visiting Singapore? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide To Lion City’s Public Transportation
