There’s something oddly magical about the combination of beaming lights, music and vibrant colours. Even as adults, we can’t help but to feel drawn to such wonderful displays, even when they’re captured on drones and shown live to us on screen.
In Singapore at least, we’re lucky enough to have a couple of popular light shows to choose from—not only are they readily available for viewing, they also come in a variety of projections and even storytelling.
Feeling overwhelmed to decide which shows to watch? Need a nudge to find where they’re all located? We’ve sifted through some of the best ones across the island that you should definitely check out.
1. Garden Rhapsody at Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay has long been a must-visit for tourists, and for good reason. At this point, the popular attraction has even made appearances in Hollywood films like Crazy Rich Asians. But did you know that there’s more to love about the giant, futuristic trees situated at the Supertree Grove? They’re gorgeous in the day, sure, but even more so when night arrives. That’s when you get to witness the brilliant supertrees in ‘action.’
Its ever-spectacular light show, aptly named Garden Rhapsody, occurs twice daily at 7:45pm and 8:45pm for 15min, adding on to the captivating atmosphere. This impressive exhibit brings life to the towering gardens through bright lights, all of which radiate to the beat of its immersive soundtrack. Depending on the season or theme, its shows change up every month or so too! Best of all? The show’s opened to the public with no entrance fee required at all.
You can also check out the upcoming events happening at Gardens by the Bay, where you’ll find thematic garden displays and workshops suitable for an afternoon outing with the whole family!
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
2. HSBC Rain Vortex Light & Sound Show at Jewel Changi Airport
The mighty cascade of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall—the HSBC Rain Vortex—is a strong enough attraction to draw people to Jewel. But did you know that this feature looks even better when night falls?
When the sky darkens, the HSBC Rain Vortex takes on a mystic splendour. That’s when the water transforms into a projected light-and-sound show. Fun fact: this was engineered by Los Angeles-based design firm WET—the company responsible for the legendary Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.
After a long hiatus, thanks to the pandemic, this light show has returned this year. Because it’s a central piece at Jewel (located at the heart of Shiseido Forest Valley), you’ll get to witness it from several vantage points—whether from several floors above or close-up from ground level. You might even get a good view of the light show while dining at Jewel.
If you’re lucky, catch a festive-themed show, or enjoy your favourite song paired with the ephemeral colours from the show—one being a special edition of the show with BTS’ Dynamite that ran from May to July 2022.
There are several showtimes a day: Monday to Thursday (8:00pm and 9:00pm), and three shows between Fridays to Sundays (8:00pm, 9:00pm, and 10:00pm). No entrance fee is required. Don’t miss the magnificent Light & Sound Show the next time you are at Jewel and have a go at the unique attractions like the walking and bouncing nets and Changi Experience Studio.
Address: 78 Airport Blvd, Singapore 819666
3. Spectra at Marina Bay Sands
In a scintillating light show at Marina Bay Sands, the Spectra depicts Singapore’s growth through a colourful display of lasers, fountain jets and sound effects.
If you’re thirsting for more, consider making your way to the front of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – or MBS – to marvel at more stunning visuals. This particular show—Spectra—takes place daily for free at 8:00pm and 9:00pm respectively (with an exception for Fridays and Saturdays where there’s an extra showing at 10:00pm).
Like Garden Rhapsody, Spectra lasts for a total of 15 minutes. This goes beyond just an impressive display of colours; there’s even an element of storytelling involved! Within its brisk runtime, you’ll get a fascinating visual depiction of Singapore’s growth—portraying the country’s journey from its humble kampung beginnings to its modern skyscrapers that we all see today.
It’s all thanks to the help of stunning laser effects, fountain jets, and the perfect combination of light, water and sound. What makes the show even more special is the direct sight of the city’s skyline situated right behind. Since there is no entrance fee needed, expect to come across a crowd of people chilling at the deck for prime viewing. Be sure to arrive earlier to secure a good spot, especially during the weekends!
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018972
4. Digital Light Canvas at Marina Bay Sands
Another great find at Marina Bay Sands has got to be Digital Light Canvas—this show, unlike the previous, takes place in the comforts of the cool, air-conditioned building instead.
Interestingly, Digital Light Canvas is presented in collaboration with teamLab, the Japanese collective behind Future World: Where Art Meets Science — a cutting-edge exhibition with interactive digital installations in the ArtScience Museum. Got a good eye when it comes to visual arts? Perhaps you’d be able to spot the stylistic similarities between the two!
What makes Digital Light Canvas unique is the fact that there is an added layer of interaction. You’ll not only get to watch shoals of fish gather in the lit-up ‘ocean’ beneath you, but also paint art with your feet and watch flowers bloom with each step. Amidst all that running, remember to pay attention to flocks of colourful ‘birds’ that casually swoop through the gorgeous 14m light sculpture overhead.
All in all, a great pick for kiddos to run wild with their creativity, but equally mesmerising for adults and lovey-dovey couples alike.
Typically, visitors spend 30min here. Digital Light Canvas can even be experienced during the daytime as shows occur daily between 11:00am and 9:00pm. Tickets (S$5) are required per person, with the last entry set at 8:50pm.
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave, #B2-50, Singapore 018956
5. Wings of Time at Sentosa
Ah, Sentosa. The iconic beach of water activities, theme park rides, picnics and Instagram-worthy snaps. Had a day’s worth of fun, but unsure of how to end on a good note? There’s no better way than to take in a spectacular light show that’s set against the backdrop of an open sea and shore under the dark skies.
We’re talking Wings of Time—a 20 minute show that utilises spellbinding lasers, fire and water effects that’s set to a majestic soundtrack. That’s not all though. The show only completes after its jaw-dropping fireworks display—it’s possibly one of the few places in Singapore where you can get to view fireworks. Because of that (understandably), entrance isn’t free for all—you’ll need to get tickets to this light show, with the standard one priced at S$16.20.
For bookings and more information, check them out here.
Address: 50 Beach View, 098604
Looking to stop by Singapore for a trip? You might just want to add these on your itinerary to make it more memorable. Regardless of which light show you decide to go to, it’ll still be a sight to behold. Ultimately, these make for great entertainment value, all breathtaking in their own right! Have on you a sturdy camera tripod or a gimbal stabiliser if you want to capture some clicks.
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