Despite its warm climate, the yuletide season does not escape Singapore with the Christmas spirit in the air! Offering a vibrant blend of traditional and modern celebrations—from glittering streets to bustling markets, this tropical city transforms into a festive wonderland, offering an array of experiences that cater to every traveller's whimsy. 

Whether it's marvelling at the ornate Christmas decorations that light up Orchard Road, exploring thematic exhibitions at iconic locations like Gardens by the Bay, or immersing oneself in the festive cheer of Christmas villages, the city pulses with joy and excitement. 

Let us take you through 13 quintessential experiences that encapsulate the year-end celebrations in Singapore. Prepare to indulge in festive delights, witness grandiose light displays, and create unforgettable memories in this tropical city during the most wonderful time of the year.

Prep your cameras for this one. And if you need constant Internet access to hit the socials, these Wi-Fi routers will have you sorted.

1. Revel in a unique Pinkmas at the Museum of Ice Cream Singapore

Step into a candy-coloured wonderland this Christmas at the Museum of Ice Cream Singapore, where Pinkmas magic comes alive! Till 15 January 2024, immerse yourself in an Instagram-worthy paradise painted in shades of pink and filled with festive fun. 

The highlight? A dip in the iconic sprinkle pool, where you can swim in a sea of colourful sprinkles—a dreamy experience that's as fun as it sounds! And that's not all. With each ticket purchased during Pinkmas, you'll receive a complimentary pass for your next visit, valid from 18 January to 29 February 2024. It's the perfect excuse to spread the holiday cheer and bring someone special along for an ice cream-filled adventure. 

While you're there, don't forget to treat yourself to unlimited scoops of creamy delight. After all, what's Christmas without a little (or a lot of) ice cream? Get ready for giggles, ‘grams, and gallons of ice cream at this festive extravaganza!

Address: 100 Loewen Road, Dempsey, Singapore 248837

Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday – 10:00am to 6:00pm, Thursday to Sunday – 10:00am to 9:00pm

Tickets: Weekday – from S$36; Weekend – from S$42; Kids aged 2 and below – free

 

2. Immerse in Christmas magic at Universal Studios Singapore

Visiting Universal Studios Singapore? Well, you’re in a Universal Christmas celebration like no other. Imagine walking into a festive realm where you can meet and greet your favourite DreamWorks’ Trolls characters, Poppy and Branch, and watch a Christmas tree come to life in a dazzling live show! Adding to this experience are the decorations around you that sparkle and shimmer, turning every corner into a scene straight out of a festive fairy tale.

As you wander through the park, stumble upon the secret divisions of Santa’s North Pole. Here, the magic of Christmas unveils right before your eyes. When night falls, the Worldwide Institute of Santa’s Helpers springs into action, featuring appearances from some of your favourite Universal characters. Picture a magical snowfall setting at Santa’s North Pole HQ too—it's the perfect backdrop for those unforgettable holiday photos.

We’re not done yet. 

Tap your feet to the rhythmic beats as the Universal Singers belt out a merry mix of classic Christmas hits. And if you're lucky, you might just catch Santa and his helpers delivering presents in a fun-filled Santa’s Present Party. Make sure to grab those selfies with holiday-themed characters like Shrek, Princess Fiona, and even Bumblebee the Transformer. All these festive attractions, available till 1 January 2024, are included with your regular admission ticket, making it a must-visit for an unforgettable family Christmas outing.

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269

Opening hours: Daily from 11:00am to 6:00pm

Festive Package Tickets: Adult – From S$98; Child – From S$71; Mastercard Exclusive (Adult): S$98

3. Be enthralled at Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Wonderland

<>

Experience the 10th edition of Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay and be ready to be whisked away into a luminous fairytale. Available till 1 January 2024, this supersized fairground is a spectacle of light and joy.

Witness the grandeur of the 20-metre-tall Spalliera, twinkling with thousands of lights, and experience the novelty of tropical 'snowfall' during Blizzard Time. Be captivated by the Supertrees, which dance in harmony to beloved Christmas classics during the Garden Rhapsody. 

Adding to the festive ambience, a 65-metre Walk of Lights tunnel offers a mesmerising journey of colours and lights. And yes, Santa Claus himself is there to greet you and pose for memorable pictures. For thrill-seekers, Frosty’s Fairground teems with amusement rides, carnival games, and dazzling light displays—a perfect wonderland for all ages.

Indulge in festive treats and beverages at Supertree Grove and Frosty’s Fairground, where the spirit of Christmas comes alive. Shop for unique gifts at Mistletoe Alley, and don't miss the Gingerbread Grove, a storybook dream with a life-sized Gingerbread House and colourful candy canes. Special nights on 5 and 12 December 2023 are reserved for pets and their owners to enjoy this winter fantasy together at Gardens by the Bay

Address: The Meadow & Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

Opening hours: Friday, 1 Dec 2023 to Monday, 1 January 2024, 6.30pm to 11.00pm

Tickets: Adults & Seniors – S$8 to S$10 (Advance purchase) & S$12 to S$14 (Same Day Purchase); Child (3-12 years old) – S$6

 

4. Let out your inner child at the Changi Festive Village

The view of Terminal 3 is now transformed into an enchanting candyland for the Changi Festive Village, brimming with festive cheer and colourful lights.

Embark on a festive adventure at the Changi Festive Village at Singapore Changi Airport, open till 31 March 2024. Here, enchantment and excitement await families and children at heart. 

First, dive into Candy Wonderland, a realm of magic featuring a towering five-metre tall bear and a mesmerising seven-metre rotating Ferris wheel, offering countless photo opportunities to capture your sweetest memories. Don't miss the roving performances throughout Terminal 3, featuring Dino mascots and Santa Claus himself!

Changi Airport’s taken a step further this time with the virtual CandyVerse. You can engage in virtual activities like building toys and showcasing your creations while earning special badges, wearables, and maybe even physical rewards.

For something more hyped up, head over to Candy Carnival at Terminal 3, where the thrill of racing on a candy-themed go-kart track awaits. Those who dream of a winter wonderland will love the Candy Snow House which sprawls over 600 square metres, offering a snowy paradise with activities like slides, sledges, and winter-themed games. 

And what’s Christmas without food? Relish festive cravings with an array of classic carnival treats, from hot dogs to coconut ice cream, enjoyed in cosy indoor or outdoor settings. 

If you’re up for a staycation, there’s Candylicious Night at the Airport, with a 2D1N stay at Changi Experience Studio filled with edible art activities, candy-themed games, and relaxing board games before a night under the twinkling lights in a candy-themed tent. 

Address: Singapore Changi Airport, Terminal 3. 65 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819663

Opening hours: Varies per attraction and activity

Tickets: Varies per attraction and activity

5. Elevate the excitement at Downtown East’s SmileyWorld® Town

Extending the Christmas celebrations from Changi Airport, Downtown East brings you the whimsical world of SmileyWorld® Town. A hub of festive fun, this joyous town offers a variety of free-to-play activities, available daily until 1 January 2024, from 10:00am to 9:00pm. 

Families and friends can dive into a five-metre-long Ball Pit filled with giant SmileyWorld® Floats, challenge each other in a game of Giant Jenga, or express their creativity on the Interactive Board.

For those seeking a keepsake, head over to the Photo Booth and pose for six unique photo strips, available for just S$10 per session. Or, capture joyous moments and create lasting memories amidst vibrant SmileyWorld® photo walls. If you love a challenge, participate in the "Spot, Snap & Post" contest. Just snap a photo with photo walls, tag it with #DowntownEastSmileyWorld, and you could win SmileyWorld® Merchandise and S$20 Downtown East Vouchers, totalling a value of S$60. 

Why not join the Spend & Redeem campaign too? By spending a minimum of S$50 (for NTUC members) or S$70 (for Link members), you'll receive a free SmileyWorld® gift wrapper and a claw machine token. For an extra S$10, upgrade your rewards with two SmileyWorld® pillowcases and an additional claw machine token, with a minimum spend of S$80 (NTUC members) or S$100 (Link members).

Address: E!Avenue Level 2 Event Square, Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, Singapore 519599

Opening hours: Daily, 10:00am–9:00pm

Tickets: Free entry; Fees apply for certain activities

6. Dive into snowy thrills at Ice Magic’s Winter Wonderland

Get ready to be swept into a winter fantasy this Christmas at Ice Magic, Singapore’s largest indoor winter pop-up at Bayfront Event Space, available till 21 January 2024. This 3,000-square-metre snowy paradise, features a massive tent split into enchanting snow and ice zones.

Feel the thrill of Singapore’s First Merry-Go-Round On Ice, an eight-metre spectacle, and whoosh down the Longest Snow Slope in Singapore, stretching an impressive 98 metres in length and standing over six metres high. From skiing down frosty slopes to gliding on illuminated ice slides, there’s no shortage of snowy fun. Make snow angels in real snow or enjoy the romance of Singapore’s First Double Lane Couple Ice Slide for those special moments.

As the evening falls, the Enchanted Nights light up the area with Arctic winter lights, creating a magical wonderland. Satisfy your cravings at the Winter Food Village, offering more than 10 stalls serving up winter delights like mulled wine and Swiss Rostis. And don’t forget to challenge your family and friends at the arcade outside. For that perfect snowy selfie, the Wooden Cottage awaits, ready to frame your ice-capped memories!

Address: Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018970

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00am to 7:00am

Tickets: From S$19 to S$49 for a 2 hour 45 minutes session; Free entry for all to Winter Food Village

7. Feel mesmerised at the floating Christmas light display at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove

Set sail for a magical Christmas at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, where the festive season comes alive with Singapore’s unique floating Christmas light display, running till 31 December 2023. The Floating Christmas Display transforms the Boaters’ Bar into a dazzling Christmas spectacle, featuring a sparkling floating Christmas Tree and mesmerising Tunnels of Stars that create an ethereal ambience.

Stroll through the Artisan Market, a treasure trove of festive shopping offering an array of crafts and food, perfect for holiday gifting. The festive mood is further elevated with live entertainment, featuring joyful visits from Santa Claus, heartwarming Christmas carols, and an array of live performances that capture the spirit of the season.

Embark on a whimsical boat ride with Santa Claus himself, a unique and exciting way to enjoy the marina's twinkling Christmas lights and a fun nautical adventure. Visitors can also partake in the festive cheer by admiring the beautifully decorated boats from the Boat Light Parade Competition 2023 held earlier.

Address: 11 Cove Drive, #01-01, Sentosa Cove, Singapore 098497

Opening hours: 5:00pm to 10:00pm

Tickets: Free

8. Snap pics against the Christmas decorations along Orchard Road

Orchard Road, Singapore's iconic shopping belt, transforms into a whimsical wonderland till 1 January 2024, celebrating the 40th Anniversary of "Christmas on A Great Street." Sponsored by Hitachi, Annually, this festive event paints the city with a dreamscape of fluffy cotton candy hues and dazzling lights that shimmer at dusk.

Additionally, Orchard Road dazzles with Outdoor AR Projections. Witness a stunning 3D AR projection on the facade of Hilton Singapore Orchard and along the pedestrian walkway from ION Orchard to Mandarin Gallery, bringing a futuristic touch to the festive celebrations.

For the kids (and adults, of course), it’s nothing short of fun when they explore the three distinct Christmas Villages, each offering unique attractions and festive joy:

  • Shaw House Urban Plaza (Till 7 January): Revel in the fun with a double-storey carousel and a Ferris wheel.

  • Plaza Singapura (Till 1 January): Enjoy a giant bouncy castle, a balloon dome, and creative craft workshops by Kiztopia.

  • Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza (Till 1 January): Experience a Euro Swing ride, visit an arcade, savour food from trucks, and enjoy live performances by local artists.

The highlight is the Christmas Eve Street Party on 24 December 2023, from 8:00pm to 12:30am, featuring dance performances, carolling, Santa meet-and-greet sessions, a bustling market, and delicious food trucks, culminating in a special countdown to Christmas.

Address: Orchard Road, Singapore

Time: From sunset

 

9. Rock to tunes at Marina Bay Sands’ Silent Disco

What’s Christmas without a little rhythm and sparkle? Dance under the stars at the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck with Silent Disco Asia's unique party experience. As you don your custom wireless headphones, the city's skyline turns into your dance floor. Three live DJs each spin a different genre of music, from electrifying electronic dance music to classic disco grooves and rock anthems, offering a symphony of choices. The headsets, glowing in blue, green, or red, visually indicate your chosen beat, adding a mesmerising light show to your dance moves.

This silent disco lets you switch between channels to suit your mood, ensuring every song is your favourite. The headphones deliver a crystal-clear nightclub-quality sound, complete with individual volume control for an immersive yet personal experience. 

It's an evening where music, lights, and the breathtaking Singapore skyline come together for an unforgettable festive celebration.

Address: SkyPark Observation Deck, Marina Bay Sands Singapore, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956

Opening hours: Selected Saturdays, 10:00pm to 2:00am (Check dates here)

Tickets: From S$38

10. Enjoy an enchanting holiday experience at Tiong Bahru Plaza

Tiong Bahru Plaza is all set for Christmas, turning into a hub of festive joy and creativity till 24 December 2023. Begin with the Maker’s Market Christmas Pop-Up, which invites you to explore an array of handcrafted goods. It's a gathering of local and international artisans under one roof, showcasing their unique Christmas-themed creations. Whether you're a shopper or an exhibitor, this pop-up market is a wonderland of artisanal treasures.

The festive spirit continues with the Sounds of Christmas. Imagine the air filled with the melodious tunes of Christmas carolling by MindSpace, accompanied by lively performances from the duo band High Notes. 

Adding to this holiday extravaganza, Tiong Bahru Plaza offers Crafting Christmas Magic. Here, unleash your creativity by joining workshops to create your own festive bag and other crafts, perfect if you’re looking for gift ideas! Just spend a minimum of S$30 in a single transaction to secure your spot in these highly sought-after sessions, limited to the first 10 sign-ups per workshop. 

Address: 302 Tiong Bahru Rd, Singapore 168732

Opening hours: 11:00am–8:00pm

Tickets: Free entry

11. Shop for gifts and Christmas decorations at Furama’s Festive Market

From now to 2 January 2024, step into the festive world of Furama RiverFront Hotel's Festive Market. Nestled in the ground floor lobby, this market becomes a treasure trove of local creativity and craftsmanship. Like the Maker’s Market, it's a celebration not just of the festive season but also of the passionate artisans and small businesses of Singapore.

Here, you can meander through stalls brimming with a variety of unique finds. From handmade cosmetics that pamper the skin to artisanal jewellery that catches the eye, there’s something for everyone. Art and crafts enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse range of pieces crafted by independent creatives and makers. And if you’re on the lookout for something special to adorn your home this Christmas, you might just stumble upon fabulous preloved decor items that are as unique as they are beautiful.

Crane Living, a highlight of the market, showcases an array of festive decorations to infuse your living spaces with the spirit of the season. Beyond the market stalls, Crane Living’s main store in the Tower Lobby offers an extended range of beloved brands, perfect for completing your holiday shopping list. Whether you're searching for that ideal gift or just soaking in the festive ambience, Furama's Festive Market is a must-visit destination this Christmas season.

Address: Furama RiverFront Hotel, 405 Havelock Rd, Singapore 169633

Opening hours: Daily from 11:00am to 6:00pm

12. Tick off the shopping list at the Capitol Kempinski Christmas Market

Still can’t get enough of the market vibes? Hop over to the enchanting Capitol Kempinski Christmas Market. Open till 26 December 2023, the market is a treasure trove of unique finds, from shimmering Christmas trees that can bring the Yuletide spirit right into your living room to a plethora of festive foods that promise to delight your taste buds. With the sweet aromas of holiday treats and the vibrant colours of intricate crafts, the market is truly a feast for the senses.

Still out of gift ideas? Here’s where you’ll revel in the joy of finding a thoughtful present for your loved ones. Or, simply treat yourself to a little festive cheer for some quality self-care. 

Address: Capitol Singapore (Outdoor Plaza), 13 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905

Opening hours: Daily from noon to 9:00pm

13. Watch tradition and festivity combine at the Chinatown Christmas Market

Step into the heart of Chinatown this December and watch as it transforms into a Christmas bazaar like no other! From 26 to 27 December 2023, the streets come alive with a festive buzz at the Chinatown Christmas Market. It's where Singapore's rich cultural tapestry meets the magic of the festive season, creating a blend that's both enchanting and unique.

Wander through a maze of stalls, each one offering treasures waiting to be discovered—from quirky crafts to festive ornaments, perfect for those special Christmas gifts. And why not try something new? Participate in interactive workshops and make your own festive creation, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.

But it's not all hustle and bustle. Amid the lively market, take a well-deserved break with a tranquil massage, a little oasis of calm in the festive frenzy. And let the heartwarming melodies of the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped lift your spirits as they fill the air with Christmas carols, while the Singapore Red Cross adds a dose of goodwill and cheer.

Address: Pagoda Street and Sago Street, Singapore 059962

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00am to 8:00pm

Embrace the festive splendour in Singapore

Whether it's experiencing the magic of Universal Studios, exploring the festive markets, or admiring the Christmas lights, Singapore truly transforms into a Yuletide paradise. The warm, tropical setting becomes a backdrop to a multitude of experiences that capture the essence of Christmas in every sparkling light and joyful melody. This season, let Singapore be your wonderland!