Are we really on to the final third of 2018??? Soon, it will be Christmas and 'Happy 2019!' but first there's the year-end final exams to fret over... but not before having one last hurrah of fun during the September School Holidays!

As usual, there are loads of holiday activities happening this one week school break - SIXTY activities in fact! So, no excuses for lamenting there are no places to bring your kids to then. ENJOY!



All aboard for an exciting global adventure with Thomas & Friends! Meet life-sized replicas of Thomas and his friends, trek through a fun obstacle maze and enjoy never-before-seen videos in a cosy mini beanbag theatre. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!



This Mid-Autumn, join Disney Tsum Tsum and VivoCity as we celebrate love between family and friends. Witness more that 2,000 Disney Tsum Tsum lanterns light up the night sky at VivoCity’s Sky Park in a spectacular Mid-Autumn Celebration of Love!



Watch Science come alive through the performance of our lively Science Buskers at the Science Buskers Festival. The buskers come together and vie for your vote as they compete to win the champion title of this competition.

The Science Buskers Festival encompasses the idea of developing the individual's communication skills through expressions of science in creative manners. Organized as a competition, this event serves as an excellent platform to spread key messages relating to the importance of inspiring an interest in science. During the competition, contestants will do a "show-and-tell" on any science topic, and judging will be based on audiences' votes and judges' scores.



From 31 Aug to 2 Sep, seize exciting discounts of up to 80% OFF your favourite toys at the HASBRO WAREHOUSE SALE! Head to Bishan CC for discounts not to be missed - be sure to head down early to grab all your favourite toys before they’re all snatched up!


An enchanting evening of ballet at the luscious Fort Canning Green, everyone is here to relax and enjoy a sumptuous picnic spread and joyous time! Get your tickets early to avoid disappointment, you would not want to miss out on this radiant evening!

31 August - 2 September 2018
With pure symmetry and captivating elegance, the first weekend of Ballet Under the Stars brings to you three rousing and powerful creations - George Balanchine's The Four Temperaments, François Klaus’ Midnight Waltzes, and Edwaard Liang’s 13th Heaven.

7 - 9 September 2018
In celebration of SDT’s 30th Anniversary, the second weekend will be dedicated to the renowned Singaporean choreographer and dance prodigy, Choo-San Goh, who was the inspiration for the formation of the company. SDT will be presenting four of his most exquisite works - Unknown Territory, Configurations pas de deux, Schubert Symphony, and Fives.



Bouncy Adventures
10am - 12pm & 2.30pm - 6pm | Front Lawn & Bus Bay
Embark on a bouncy adventure with interactive inflatable playgrounds that are inspired by iconic mosaic playgrounds of yesteryear! You can also go on an "animal hunt" with our animal springers for more bouncy fun.

Craft Activity: Make you own Mobile
10am - 7pm | Rotunda Level 1, Dynamic Lines of Our Nest
Create your own hanging mobile inspired by The Dynamic Lines of Our Nest by Matali Crasset with your family at our drop-in craft station!

Moving Memories Art Installation and Activity Sheet for Families and Friends
10am - 7pm | Gallery 10, Moving Images 
Catch our special exhibition "Moving Memories", which features a selection of Yip Yew Chong's life-sized murals. These murals seek to express the romance of "places and moments...that blend sights, sounds, smell and taste." Savour these moments of our tangible and intangible heritage, such as barbers in back lanes and fortune tellers, traditional kopi-making and road-side communal satay-eating, as they come alive through animation, soundscape and projection in Gallery 10. Pick up and complete the Activity Sheet to redeem a 3D model of our yesteryear playgrounds!

3D Model Redemption
10am - 6pm | Fort Canning office 
Redeem a 3D model of our yesteryear playgrounds with a completed Moving Memories Activity sheet or feedback form or by subscribing to Families for Life and National Museum's mailing list.

Remember Me through My Art
10am - 5pm | Glass Atrium, Level 2 
“Remember Me through My Art” is a showcase of selected art pieces created by participants of the Alzheimer’s Disease Association’s (ADA) Arts and Dementia programme over a series of visits to the National Museum of Singapore, The Peranakan Museum and the Malay Heritage Centre. Visitors to the museum are invited to participate in drop-in craft activities from 2pm to 4pm.

Young Cinema by Robot Playground Media (SG)
10.30am - 12.30pm & 3.30pm - 5.30pm | The Salon, Level 1
The National Museum’s Young Cinema programme returns with TimeScapes – A Singapore Anthology, a collection of animated short films about life, love and the landscapes of Singapore past and present.


Go on a journey to three fascinating zones as you can Create, Discover and Experience the enchantment of AIA Family Fest. Participate in each zone and collect stamps to redeem a prize (while stocks last). Whether it is sports, farming in the city, art or food, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy! For more details, visit HERE.


The West Marsh, within the Core Conservation Area of Kranji Marshes, is a special area designated for the conservation of marsh birds. To minimise disturbances to these shy animals and other wildlife, access to this section is restricted to guided activities organised by NParks and its partners. Several times a year, visitors can access this section when NParks volunteers (the 'Kranji Marshals') conduct station-guiding. They will be stationed at the hides and strategic locations to help you appreciate the beauty of the marsh habitat.

A loop around West Marsh is about 1.2 km and takes about 20 minutes to complete. This includes about 400 m of narrow and uneven rocky path, which is not recommended for young children without supervision. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, and exercise caution when walking on this path.





This September, The Giving Family Festival is back! An initiative of TOUCH Community Services, the carnival celebrates the spirit of giving back as One Community. At the Festival, you can play together with your loved ones and develop intergenerational bonds – all while giving back to society! The young and young-at-heart will be able to enjoy carnival rides, engage in a nerf-gun battle, enjoy live performances, and take part in fun workshops on decorating jumbo cookies, learn to play the ukulele, or how to sign. Proceeds will go to help 31,000 beneficiaries including youth-at-risk, vulnerable families, people with special needs and disadvantaged seniors. For more details, visit HERE.


Come spend your day at the park with your family. Soak in the relaxing atmosphere under the sun. Share a lovely conversation in between snack bites on the picnic mat, and design your very own kite! It’s time to be creative and have a whole lot of fun with your family!



Families can look forward to an evening of fun, laughter and entertainment amidst the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. There will be music performances by 3 local bands starting at 4pm - Abby Simone and Oli (Jazz), The Kollective (Acoustic) and Jack and Rai (Top 40). Enjoy fringe activities such as tote bag painting, bubble play, redemption of complimentary snacks from Families for Life Mobile Cafe and many other fun family activities from 3.30pm onwards!


Come on down to KidZania Singapore, the amazing kid-sized city, and gear up for a fun-filled evening with the family! Race around with your family through the F1-themed games and bond through exciting career role-play activities. What’s more, remember to come decked out in creative career-themed costumes as the best dressed family stands to win exclusive prizes! For more details and tickets, visit HERE.



Let your kids try their hand at constructing and flying a drone or put their climbing skills to the test at our indoor Rock climbing Wall! Spend $30 to redeem a stamp card from the Customer service Counter on Level 1, collect 2 stamps by completing the station and redeem $20 worth of elemen dining vouchers!

HFC KIDS STAR SEARCH 2018
1 & 2 Sep 2018; 2.45pm - 6pm
Cheer on the young talents as they perform for a place in the Finals on 2 Sep!



Catch Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo this September school holiday as they rise out of their homes and make a special appearance on stage for a Totally Turtles experience in the City! Here’s your chance to learn ninja skills from the best and be the hero that you were destined to be.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES MEET & GREET
Show off your swift ninja skills by being the first 50 shoppers to redeem a meet-and-greet pass, as well as an exclusive Ninja mask, when you spend a minimum of $50*. Don’t forget to strike your  est ninja pose!

Date: 1-9 September 2018 (daily, except Monday)
Time: Weekdays: 2.45pm and 7. 45pm | Weekends: 1.45pm, 4.45pm and 7.45pm
Venue: B2 (beside Travelators)
*Redemptions start 1 hour prior to each show



Sculpted by the internationally-acclaimed JOOheng Tan and his team of international sand sculptors, Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition will feature popular MARVEL icons from the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy and more (including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Hulk and other Super Heroes) as 15 larger-than-life sand sculptures! Other MARVEL themed activities include:


HULK SMASH
Are you stronger than Hulk? Do the Hulk Smash, and watch the ground break and tremor according to the intensity of your smash.

FREEZE FRAME
Every Super Hero has that signature move and end pose. Strike the coolest pose and show off your Super Hero moves in our 180-degree video booth!

HERO ACTION CENTRE
Which MARVEL Super Hero are you? Discover your Super Hero Destiny at our Hero Action Centre!

REDEEM LIMITED EDITION MARVEL COMIC BOOKS
Bring home a Singapore-themed Limited Edition MARVEL Comic Books!

Sand Sculpting Workshops
1 - 16 September 2018 | 11am, 2pm, 5pm | Siloso Beach | 45-50min
Let your kids learn how to create their very own sand sculptures from our master sand sculptors! Specially designed for kids aged 5 years and above, a demonstration will be provided by a master sand sculptor before the kids are allowed to "let loose" and create their very own masterpieces! Registration for the workshops is free! Limited seats available per session. Register early to avoid disappointment. Register for the workshop at Siloso Beach from 1-16 September, 10am - 5pm.

LIVE Graffiti Painting
1 & 2, 8 & 9 September | Siloso Beach (Opposite Bikini Bar)
Ever seen a Graffiti wall come to life? Be sure to catch one of Singapore's talented Graffiti artist: Freakyfir in action!

Movies by the Beach
2 - 9 September, 15 - 16 September | 7.45pm | Siloso Beach Opposite Bikini Bar
Give yourself a well-deserved break as you unwind and catch an outdoor movie by the beach, accompanied by breezy winds and the soothing sounds of the waves.



Jointly organised by HeyBaby and SAFRA Punggol, My Family Fiesta promises an entire day of enjoyable family bonding through a variety of fun and exciting activities for everyone. Event highlights include SAFRA Punggol's signature 'Diaper Dash', free singing sessions, kayaking and cycling by the scenic waterway, bouncy castle, and so much more! Free goodie bags are also up for grabs for the first 2,000 participants!

SAFRA Punggol Family Bazaar
1 & 2 Sep 2018 | 10am - 6pm | Level 5, Function Room
Get ready to soak up the family vibes and satisfy your shopping craves at the SAFRA Punggol family bazaar! Featuring a galore of household and family related products from well-known brands NTUC Fairprice, Big Little Me, Kiddylicious, Toy Avenue and more, satisfy your shopping craves with attractive SAFRA members discount and win fabulous prizes in a Sure-win Lucky Dip!

Free entry to Splash @ Kidz Amaze
9am - 11am | Level 3
Limited to the first 100 customers, First-come, first-served basis.

Free Cycling
9am - 6pm | Level 1, Promenade Deck
Limited to the first 150, First-come, first-served basis.

Families for Life Bouncy Castles
9am - 6pm | Level 2, Courtyard

Free Kayaking
9am - 10pm, 11am - 12noon, 3pm - 6pm | Punggol Water Park, Pontoon
First-come, first-served basis.

Free Parent and Child Taekwondonomics
10am - 11am | Level 1, Promenade Deck
Limited to the first 15 pairs, first-come, first served basis.

Free Singing Session
10am - 6pm | Level 5, Manekineko
Limited to 1 hour slot per family, based on room availability.

Storytelling by LCentral
10.30am - 10.45am: Open for Registration; 10.45am - 11.15am: First Session
11.15am -11.30am: Open for Registration; 11.30am - 12noon: Second Session 
2.30pm - 3.00pm: Last Session
Level 4, LCentral English
First-come, first-served basis.

Free Bowling Session
2pm - 4pm | Level 5, Orchid Bowl
Limited to 1 hour slot per family and 12 lanes only. Based on lane availability.

For more details, visit HERE.



A splashing good time awaits you at River Safari as you come face to fin with Mermicornos and Manatees from 1 – 30 September! Be mesmerised by mermaid performances and discover fun facts about our river inhabitants. For details on activities, visit HERE.



Head to the heart of the business district for My Family Weekend Fun Day on 2 Sep, Sunday! Circular Road will be closed to traffic so that kids get to doodle on the road! Also, learn how to make your own puppet or stop by the UOB Promenade next to Circular Road to snap a family portrait against the beautiful backdrop of city skyline before having a blast at the bouncy castles along the Singapore River. HIGHLIGHTS include:

At Circular Road

Puppet-making Workshops
Get your creative juices flowing and learn how to make your very own puppet with your family. What's more, gather round the stage for a puppet performance for some family fun!

Art Doodling on Road
Try your hands at doodling on the car-free road and be part of the creative and vibrant chalk art on the street!

Kiddy Animal Ride
Hop onto the animal rides as the closed street gets turned into a mini race course.

FFL Pop-Up PLAY Parent-Child Activities Booth
Wonder what’s a sun riser? Come on down and make your own sun riser fitting for the celebration! Don’t forget to join in the fun at the Family Shoot Out game and other activity booths for quality parent-and-child bonding.

Stage Performances
Be enthralled by the puppet performances or relax and enjoy the soothing sounds of live music performance.

Families for Life Mobile Café
Check out our Families for Life mobile café to grab complimentary snacks and drinks! Don’t forget to have a go at the simple family activities next to the mobile café too.

At UOB Promenade

Families for Life Bouncy Castles
The young and young at heart will have a blast playing the bouncy castles along the scenic Singapore River.

Families for Life Photo Booth
Don’t miss out the photo booth set against the backdrop of the Singapore River and take a family portrait for keepsake.

Family River Cruise (4.30pm - 5.30pm, Pre-registration required)
Gather your extended family members for a 30-min evening river cruise as you take a trip down memory lane along Singapore River.

For more details, visit HERE.


Journey through the galleries and explore the colourful world of the Peranakan. Join a character tour and learn the hidden meanings behind the colours often used in the Peranakan household.



Roll out your picnic mats and soak in the infectious beats with your friends and family. Come tune in to original music by Noise Singapore artists Adia Tay, The Betts and Stopgap!


Dreams can take you to wondrous places. They motivate you to find and express yourself, and give you the courage to become greater. Go on a journey inspired by a Singaporean artist – A BIG DREAMER – Whose story exemplifies the power of the mind and art to create infinite possibilities. For more information, visit HERE.


Enjoy free admission to National Orchid Garden from 25 August to 9 Sepember 2018 for students, Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders.

Terms and Conditions:
- Students are required to present valid student cards.
- Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Work Permit Holders and Dependant Pass Holders are required to present their ID cards or relevant documentation.
- Not applicable to tour groups, tickets purchased in advance and other promotions.



This September, the magic comes alive with the launch of the LEGO Harry Potter 71043 Hogwarts Castle! This highly detailed collectible has over 6,000 pieces and offers a rewarding and magical build experience. Be the first to witness the magnificent LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle launching on 1st September 2018! Join in the magical fun with an exciting line-up of Harry Potter-themed activities! Discover your powers for building iconic creations like the Hogwarts Express, magical wands, and the iconic Ford Anglia car.

The magic doesn't end there! Get your hands on your beloved character of all time by being part of the large-scale Harry Potter mosaic mural building! On 1st and 2nd September, watch the larger-than-life Harry Potter's face slowly come together as shoppers contribute to this 152cm x 152cm mosaic!



Head down to a car-free Amoy Street on 9th September for bites x vibes! Organised by foodpanda in partnership with Sunshine Nation, bites x vibes will have an array of delicious food, great local music and activities like free yoga and meditation classes.


Grab your friends, families and lovers, and come groove at this soulful Sunday performance! The star of the show is one of the most celebrated Brazilian musicians, the saxophonist Leo Gandelman. Worshipped by the mainstream public and by the fans of Brazilian Popular Music (MPB), Leo Gandelman oversteps the borders of classic and popular music through the quality of his saxophone

Everyone across the island is invited and encouraged to bring their own picnic mats, food and wine, bask in the lush greenery of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and enjoy a sample of the best in Brazilian music through the repertoire of Leo Gandelman and Eduardo Farias. Concert-goers can certainly expect a broad array of musical experiences as the two musicians move between classic and popular songs.



More than 90 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney's THE LION KING, and now the world's best-loved musical returns to the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands. Winner of over 70 major international theatre awards, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most innovative creative teams on Broadway. Brilliantly re-imagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney's beloved film is transformed into a spectacular experience that will redefine your expectations of theatre. THE LION KING also features some of world's most recognisable music, crafted by multi-award winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. For tickets, visit HERE.



Happening only at Junction 8 (J8) 20 August till 30 September 2018, shoppers can join Pompompurin on his summer camp adventure. Featuring Pompompurin statues and cut-outs, exclusive Pompompurin premiums, weekly events and a campfire party, this will be Singapore’s first mall-wide Pompompurin activation.

Meet and Greet sessions available at Junction 8 on 1 Sep (4pm), 8 Sep (11am) & 15 Sep (4pm). Shoppers must spend $20 anywhere in Junction 8 and be the first 30 to present their receipts to the event crew for their photo opportunity.



Marvel Studios: Ten Years of Heroes is a cutting-edge exhibition that utilises state-of-the-art AV technology and immersive media to transport visitors into the dynamic world of the Marvel Studios Super Heroes. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in many of the box office-smashing movies from the Marvel Cinematic Universe under one roof. Highlights include an interactive journey into the world of the recent pop culture landmark, Black Panther; an immersive installation focused on last year’s Thor: Ragnarok, as well as sneak peeks into the upcoming Avengers: Infinity War as well as Ant-Man and the Wasp.

The exhibition also features installations on all the major characters introduced in the first decade of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Doctor Strange and Guardians of the Galaxy. It will also include engaging displays curated by ArtScience Museum, which highlight the science, technology, art and cultural stories behind each Marvel Studios’ film. For tickets, visit HERE.


Based on the book The Little Prince written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the exhibition celebrates the 75th anniversary of the publication.  Discover how the well-loved story came about and the unusual man behind its creation.  Meet unforgettable characters from The Little Prince and experience its iconic moments.  On display are stamps and philatelic materials, personal belongings of the author, illustrations, books and sculptures.



Playeum’s fifth hands-on interactive exhibition “GOING PLAY-CES: A Wanderful Exploration of New Lands” is now open! Co-created by Playeum, Participate In Design and artists from D/SINI and The Animal Book Co, this exhibition gives visitors opportunities to navigate and explore Play-ces through various landscapes such as the sea, jungle, city and beyond. Children will experience and engage with their imagination, while thinking about sustainability, innovation and the role of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) in everyday life and the future.

Here we are - the FINAL month of 2018! How on earth did we get here so fast??? As promised, here is the listing for all kid-friendly activities taking place for the school holiday month of December and from the looks of it, it is going to be one hectic but FUN month!


Especially since there are more than EIGHTY activities to choose from!

So here we go...




I dare say that this is the only list you will ever need this year-end school holidays if you are looking for information on the Meet & Greet happenings around Singapore. Get the full details here: www.cheekiemonkie.net/2018/11/christmas-shows-and-meet-greets-shopping-malls-2018.html



Direct from Moscow and the circus capitals of the world comes this year’s heart-pounding family spectacular – THE GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS. Boasting the world’s most dangerous and death-defying acts, including the Wheel of Death and the Motorbike Sphere of Fear, THE GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS sees the mighty red and white circus big top transformed into an astonishing, high octane, fun-filled entertainment destination.

THE GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS, returns to Singapore for the first time in over 10 years, with over 45 performers – acrobats, clowns, jugglers, daredevils – all circus stars renowned world-wide for their theatrical flair and breath-taking talents. Circus doesn’t get much wilder than this! Read my review HERE, and for tickets, visit HERE.


Everyone’s favorite megastars - Hi-5 is returning to town! Join Bailey, Courtney, Joe, Lachie and Shay as they celebrate their 20th anniversary, serenading fans with their high energy dancing and singing. Simply spend $50 in a single same-day retail receipt to qualify for one Meet & Greet Pass.



On The Night Before Christmas a little mouse called Eddie couldn’t understand why only humans were allowed to celebrate Christmas and open presents. So he sets off in search of Father Christmas to find out for himself. Along the way he dodges the family cat, gets directions from a cowardly toy soldier and is given some unexpected advice from the magical fairy on top of the tree.

This story is about Eddie the mouse’s adventure but is also about friendship and sharing and the real spirit of Christmas. This heart-warming adaptation is full of merry touches with plenty of live music and songs. It’s a perfect introduction to live theatre for young children. Suitable for 3+ years. For tickets. visit HERE.



Voices – A Festival of Song by Esplanade Theatres on the Bay is a non-ticketed three-day celebration of vocal music held from 7 to 9 December 2018. In its sixth edition, Voices will continue to feature a range of forms and styles of singing, including choral, a-cappella, musical theatre, show and pop choir, classical singing, jazz, doo wop, motets and madrigals, xin yao (a uniquely Singaporean genre) and more. Visit www.esplanade.com/voices for more information and be sure to catch the performances!



Siblings Nali and Gao Feng are joined by their friend Da Fa for a night at the museum. Suddenly, a mysterious lunar eclipse occurs. Before they know it, the exhibits come alive and the fossil of a baby T-rex, TARU, goes missing! With the help of the newly animated exhibits, can our daring trio save baby TARU?

A box-office hit in Korea, this Mandarin musical features life-sized dinosaur skeletons, an impressive museum set, and a catchy soundtrack that will have you singing along. Catch Musical TARU with the entire family and go on a big adventure promising plenty of laughs, tears and drama! For tickets, visit HERE.


Have a jolly good time at SAFRA Mount Faber's Festive Pool Party! Bask in the festive atmosphere and fill your tummies with a scrumptious festive buffet spread. Ho-ho-hop into the pool and engage in kid-friendly fun craft activities by the side. To register, visit HERE.



This December, the Koshigaya Minami High School Wind Orchestra, an award-winning high school wind orchestra from Saitama, Japan will present an eclectic programme of everything Japanese! Join us as their musicians bring you an immersive experience through the works of renowned Japanese composers such as Toshio Mashima, Hirokazu Fukushima, Yo Goto and Satoshi Yagisawa. Not forgetting the fun, they will also bring you into the world of Matsuri by Saburo Kitajima and Zen Zen Zense made famous by the animated film, Your Name. For tickets, visit HERE.



70+ musicians performing the music live in syncwith the legendary film projected onto giant screen. See the only official Star Wars concert in Singapore! Relive John Williams’ beloved music live while watching the entire episode IV movie on a giant screen.

Star Wars: A New Hope is the movie that started the legend, the first film in the original Star Wars trilogy and the beginning of the Star Wars franchise. More than 70 orchestral musicians will play the soundtrack live at the prestigious Esplanade Theatre in Singapore. Created by five-time Academy Award®-winning composer John Williams, the epic music takes on a new dimension when played live accompanying the full movie projected onto the big screen, complete with all dialogue and sound effects. The powerful score of Episode IV will resonate like never before at the magnificent Esplanade Theatre. For tickets, visit HERE.



Ever wondered what it’s like to sing along with the SSO in the Victoria Concert Hall? Associate Conductor Joshua Tan and the SSO bring you a sparkling collection of musical treasures for the yuletide season, complete with a sing-a-long segment where you can join in the chorus! For tickets, visit HERE.



Get up close with Pikachu in the FIRST LED Pikachu Night Parade and Dance Show outside Japan! Come over and watch a posse of nine adorable Pikachu dolled up in LED lights as they march and dance along a 100m route, past Palawan Pirate Ship and Palawan Kidz City. Line yourselves along the route at Palawan Beach Walk to capture sights of Pikachu performing and dancing along to funky beats!


Countdown 12 days to Christmas with our jolly elves at Science Centre Singapore! The Jolly Elves are back! This December, the prestigious Elf Academy is open for enrollment. Sign up to become an accomplished elf and graduate from the Elf Academy. Don't miss the Jolly Elves in action at the 'Elves Showdown' Science Show from 21 to 25 December at 4pm.


Enjoy family time at the National Museum of Singapore on 15 Dec 2018! The fun line-up of activities includes interactive tours, storytelling sessions, family workshops, drop-in craft activities, captivating performances, and more.


Gardeners' Day Out promises an entire day of gardening and lifestyle activities for everyone. Favourite highlights include Gardeners' Market, free talks and demonstrations, free garden tour of HortPark and kids' activities like storytelling and handicrafts!

The 50-hectare Coney Island Park houses a wide variety of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, mangroves, and Casuarina woodlands. It is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, some of which are critically endangered. Come follow our volunteer guide to find out more and learn more about the interesting history of the island! Register via HERE.


Experience nature in its pristine form at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, which is a mere 12 km from the bustling city centre. By virtue of Singapore’s location on the equatorial belt, the reserve has one of the richest and most diverse ecological systems. Join us for a Guided Nature Appreciation Walk to find out more about the flora & fauna that can be found in the reserve! Register via HERE.

The finale concert of the 6th WBAS Youth Band Festival showcases young musicians ranging from primary schools to tertiary institutions.  Handpicked via auditions prior to the Festival, these outstanding young talents experience a week of music making in a dynamic and exciting setting where they are mentored by professional musicians and are led by conductors Mr Tay Kai Tze, Mr Adrian Chiang and Mr Masanori Fukuda from Japan. Programme for the evening range from classics such as Music for a Festival, Peterloo Overture, Song without Words, Prokofiev's March to all-time favourite pops Japanese Graffiti XII and Latin Gold. For tickets, visit HERE.


During the high tide, manmade waste such as plastics and foam pieces get stuck in our mangrove forest. You can help to clean up the mangrove bed and prevent such inedible material to be ingested by our amazing mangrove animals. Register HERE.


Ideally situated at the perimeter of Central Catchment Nature Reserve, the 75-hectare Windsor Nature Park is the gateway to the rich biodiversity of the largest nature reserve in Singapore. Through this guided walk, you will gain a greater appreciation of Singapore’s rich natural heritage and the need to protect it for future generations. Come join us and discover the importance of Windsor Nature Park as a buffer to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Register via HERE.


This session introduces the research facilities at the Singapore Botanic Gardens such as the Library of Botany & Horticulture, Orchid & Micro-propagation laboratory and the Herbarium. Highlights of  this 45-minute tour includes a visit to the Herbarium which stores physical records of reference plant materials, some dating as far back as 1790.  In addition, learn about our hybridization programme for orchids, a process introduced back in 1930’s by the then Director, R.E Holttum.

To attend this tour at 10am, registration is required at the Service Desk 15-minutes before the scheduled start time. Slots are limited to 25 people, for ages 9 and above.


Learn all about the Estuarine Crocodiles that bask in the Reserve with volunteer Bernard, who has a keen interest in our reptilian friend! Do drop by to have a chat with Bernard and learn fascinating information about the crocodiles – such as their characteristics and behaviour, and observe them as they go about their daily business.



An collaboration between Toa Payoh Methodist Church and Toa Payoh Central CC, Light of Christmas 2018 will consist of a Christmas Market, where there will be performances, artificial snow, visual art installations, food, games, rides, crafts and retail booths by social enterprises.



Mickey Mouse is celebrating his 90th birthday! Get ready to be engaged in fun-filled activities which incorporate Mickey Mouse and Friends, Finding Dory, Moana, Frozen 2, Toy Story, Inside Out and Fantasia. What’s more, grab this opportunity to meet & greet Mickey without having to wait in a long line.

Saturdays@ACM is a family-friendly programme on the last Saturday of every month at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Families can spend a full day exploring the wonders of Asian art and folklore. Enjoy creative, hands-on activities, interactive performances and drama, and storytelling in the museum's galleries. Each month features a different theme - learn tales behind popular cultural festival, embark on a journey across ancient civilisations, and make your masterpiece inspired by thousand-year old artworks.


Ending off the Celebrate in the City with a loud bang is the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2019, gathering everyone at Marina Bay to ring in the hopes, dreams and aspirations for the new year with activities including student-collaborated light projections, Car-Free New Year’s Eve at the Civic District and a food truck festival.

Do not miss the magnificent firework display proudly choreographed by Star Island, a ticketed multi-sensory fireworks musical that brings together larger-than-life pyrotechnics and lights, 3D sound and world-class performance acts.



This holiday season, W!LD RICE brings you its heartwarming, hilarious take on Charles Dickens’ classic tale about love, compassion and the spirit of giving! S.K. Loo’s All-In-One app has made him the richest businessman in town. To him, only money matters. He’s determined to spend Christmas as he always has – holed up in his penthouse, dreaming of hostile takeovers and retrenching staff.

But this Christmas is going to be very different. Three very unexpected spirits appear to scare the Scrooge out of S.K. Loo. Will he survive being haunted by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet-To-Be? Can the three spirits withstand his acid tongue and icy meanness? And can the true meaning of Christmas thaw his frozen heart?

Directed by Hossan Leong, the year’s most eagerly anticipated musical extravaganza features a cheeky script by Jonathan Lim and a magical score by Elaine Chan. As the miserly S.K. Loo, Sebastian Tan (a.k.a. Broadway Beng) leads a stellar cast that includes Siti Khalijah Zainal, Audrey Luo, Candice de Rozario, Fauzie Laily and the fabulous First Stage Kids! Don’t miss A $ingapore Carol – a brand-new musical for the entire family about the true spirit(s) of Christmas! For tickets, visit HERE.



Jingle all the way around Brooms Town with Robocar Poli and friends at Marina Square this Christmas! Come join us for the best Brooms Town Christmas ever and celebrate the festive season with Poli, Helly, Amber and Roy from the popular South Korean cartoon series Robocar Poli! The first 60 families in the queue at each session will also have the opportunity to meet and greet these lovable characters on stage. Meet & Greet passes will be distributed at the entrance 20 minutes prior to each session, on a first-come-first-served basis.



A nutcracker themed Christmas awaits you at Suntec City! Get ready for the magic of discovery, dreams and ample fun with our friends from Sesame Street! Entertaining non-muppets since 1969, our favourite characters Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert, Ernie, Count von Count and Abby Cadabby will be sharing the Christmas cheer with us at Suntec City! This is where the air is sweet –hop on for a magic carpet ride with a fun-filled line-up of activities such as the Sesame Street Live Show, Marching Parade, Tea Party and many more! Expect only sunny days this holiday season at the North Atrium, Suntec City!

Sesame Street Show
7 - 23 Dec 2018 (Fri to Sun only) | 2pm & 7pm
Join in the fun with Elmo and his friends this Christmas! Let the kiddos sing and dance along to infectious and groovy Christmas hits as they share their favourite moments of Christmas onstage. Through original choreography and spirited dance moves, Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert and Ernie will be a hit with the kids.

Marching Parade
8 - 22 Dec 2018 (Every Sat) | 4pm
No Christmas is complete without a parade – catch the characters from Sesame Street in a high-spirited, sparkly and joy-filled parade at Suntec City. Better yet, let the kids march along and soak up the energy with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert, Ernie, Count von Count and Abby Cadabby!



This holiday season, Tanjong Pagar Centre will partner local artists and performers to transform the Urban Park into a colourful, fun and exciting place for all to enjoy! Come unwind at TPC’s very own Hullabaloo pool for the curious and creative, where you can look forward to have a ‘pool’ party and lounge around the area! Gather the whole family for handicraft workshops by Pompom Pets and Bead by Bead that will keep your kids busy.



Singapore’s biggest yuletide fair, Christmas Wonderland, returns with its fifth edition this 30 November to 26 December 2018! Soak up the festivities with a dazzling array of activities and entertainment for everyone – a charming European-style Festive Market, outdoor skating under the stars, carnival games and kiddie rides, ‘snow’ in the tropics, magical luminarie sculptures that transform the fairground into a stunning wonderland and so much more. For more information, visit HERE.

ChariTrees @ Marina Bay 2018 celebrates the true meaning of this season of giving and bringing joy to lives of the disadvantaged. This 8th edition of a unique fundraising initiative will see the scenic Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade dotted with very uniquely-designed trees, showing support in caring for the less fortunate.



This Christmas, enter a world of imagination with Barney and friends at City Square Mall! Get ready to dance and sing along to all-time Christmas favourites as Barney, BJ, and Baby Bop take the stage. It’ll be a magical Christmas like no other with a LIVE show, meet and greet sessions, an immersive visual-display of lights and other fun-filled holiday activities and goodies for the whole family from 16 November to 30 December!

BARNEY’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS ‘LIVE’ SHOW
1 – 16 December 2018 (except Monday)
Tue - Fri: 2pm and 7pm | Sat & Sun: 1pm, 4pm and 7pm
L1 Stage
Our favourite purple dinosaur is back at City Square Mall with a brand-new musical show with BJ and Baby Bop. ‘Tis the season to be jolly so put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a song and dance extravaganza with a line-up of ultimate Barney hits along with some all-time seasonal favourites!

MEET AND GREET WITH BARNEY & FRIENDS
1 – 16 December 2018 (except Monday)
Tue - Fri: 2.30pm and 7.30pm | Sat & Sun: 1.30pm, 4.30pm and 7.30pm
L1 Stage
Get up close and personal with the loveable dinosaurs after their LIVE show when you spend a minimum of $50 at City Square Mall. The first 50 shoppers will get to redeem a Meet & Greet pass, as well as a ticket to dive into the ball pit at the Magical Carnival. Redemptions start an hour prior to each show.

SNOWY PLAYTIME
16 Nov – 30 Dec 2018 | 8.15pm and 9.15pm (10 mins per session) | City Green Park
Feel the magic of Christmas at City Square Mall with falling snow! Little ones can experience the joy of playing with ‘snowy’ foam while dancing along to Barney themed Christmas songs. There will also be a Barney’s Magical Christmas backdrop for you to snap a photo with your favourite purple dinosaur in the snow.

STARLIGHT GARDEN AT CITY GREEN PARK
STARRY LIGHT DISPLAY - 16 Nov to 30 Dec 2018 | Every 30 minutes from 7pm – 10pm
MAGICAL CARNIVAL - 16 Nov to 30 Dec 2018 | 1pm – 10pm
Capture memorable Insta-worthy moments as a massive display of 300,000 LED lights illuminate over 40,000 sq. ft of City Green Park. Explore a tunnel of stars and gather under the immersive visual-display of lights and music with your loved ones to witness a stunning 6-minute light show! Plus, enjoy a variety of outdoor carnival rides with your loved ones, amid beautiful festive decorations!



Joining forces with Lockdown Singapore—Singapore’s leading Escape Game provider—River Safari is turning into a giant board game ruled by these fearsome river creatures; brave adventurers must save themselves, and they win a Pin of Honour when the quest is completed.

Designed for the family, adventurers can form groups of up to six participants to solve puzzles to escape. Pick up interesting information about these fearsome river creatures—such as the Green Anaconda and Tiger Fish—along the way! If that does not satiate your thirst for knowledge, sail along the river banks and discover fun and fascinating facts during our feeding sessions for the Giant River Otter, Red-bellied Piranha and Electric Eel.

For more information, visit HERE.



See black, white, and a whole lot more when you meet the penguins at Jurong Bird Park this festive season. Discover interesting nuggets of information on these aquatic birds; chat with our friendly penguin keepers to find out why penguins are black and white, and seize the opportunity to feed penguins by hand! Guests can catch the tuxedoed cuties excitedly chasing after bubbles as part of their enrichment, and win a collectible penguin pin when they complete games.

For more information, visit HERE.


This Christmas, come immerse yourself in the Virtual Reality (VR) gaming challenge of snowball fights and music beat saber game with every min. spend of $50! Play to your hearts’ content and stand a chance to be one of the top 3 players/teams to win a total worth of $4,600 shopping vouchers in the family or individual category! With the $50 spend, you can also participate in the lucky draw and stand to be one of the 3 winners to embark on 7-nights voyage in the Balcony Cabin of the Mediterranean cruise holidays with Princess Cruises worth more than $15,000!

 That’s not all, parents looking for activities during Christmas season can bring their little one to be engage in full-filled experience in the Parent-Child Lego Robotics workshop.  Join in for an hour of creativity, fun and learning, where you can create your very own robotic game with LEGO WeDo.


This November, massive art installations are taking over Palawan Beach. Walk amongst these ultra-instagrammable landscapes built by local artists such as Sam Lo, Teng Kai Wei and Tina Fung. Before you ask, yes, you’re allowed to play with them. And unlike a traditional art gallery, selfies are highly encouraged. Instagram boyfriends (and girlfriends), use #IslandLights to show off your photos.

Besides the illuminating art, there’s also a live band playing you tunes through the night, and tasty snacks at the food kiosk. So put on your flip flops and join us for a laidback night at Sentosa Island Lights 2018, from 16 November till 31 December, 7 to 11pm.

Palawan Pirate Ship
16 Nov - 31 Dec 2018  (Every Thursday - Sunday)
9am - 10.30pm (Water play extended until 8pm)
From 16 Nov - 31 Dec, Palawan Pirate Ship will be illuminated in the evening just for you and your kids to celebrate the festive season! Programmes that you can exclusively enjoy with your kids include: Interactive Doodle Wall, Graffiti Workshops, DIY Glitter Slime and DIY Liquid Squishy Ball.



The flying reptiles of legend and other mythical beasts have descended upon Singapore Zoo. Not to plunder and destroy, but to awe and inspire. Enter the Valley of Myths and come face-to-snout with 17 creatures from fantasy and folklore like the Unicorn, Phoenix and of course, Dragons from 17 Nov – 31 Dec 2018.

Apart from fire-breathing dragons, Singapore Zoo will host some icy visitors from beyond the wall. In collaboration with HBO Asia, Singapore Zoo will for the first time ever, display a 3D replica of Viserion, the Night King’s Ice Dragon from the hit HBO Original series GAME OF THRONES. Mark your calendars as the Night King himself and his White Walkers will be making special appearances on 17, 18, 24 and 25 November 2018.

For more information, visit HERE.


An After Dark Adventure of Fantasy and Mystery. Triple the wild factor with Rainforest Lumina, Night Safari Walking Trails and the first ever Festive Pop-up Market in the heart of Mandai. For more information, visit HERE.



This November, Resorts World Sentosa invites visitors to set sail on the high seas as we welcome the first ever ONE PIECE exhibition in Singapore! With one of the longest-running anime series and over 440 million manga volumes in circulation worldwide, ONE PIECE is indisputably one of the most popular Japanese creation ever. In this exhibition, very rarely brought out of Japan, visitors can expect to discover the infinite imagination of creator Eiichiro Oda as they wander through a gallery of his illustrations, get up close and personal with a replica of his work desk, and even experience as if they have jumped into the mind of Eiichiro Oda with a unique Virtual Reality Experience!

Other highlights of this exhibition include plenty of illustrations from Eiichiro Oda and of course, a merchandise shop stocking original T-shirts, stationery, and even ultra high-resolution reproductions of Oda’s original illustrations. For more information, visit HERE.


Decked out in spectacular lights inspired by Disney’s beloved characters, this Christmas is sure to bedazzle you. The magical experience is made possible by Hitachi, Main Sponsor of the annual Christmas Light-up since 1991. Expect to be captivated by the Disney-themed displays, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, pop-up stores and even a Christmas Village filled with delectable food and drinks, amusement rides, and nightly live performances.

THE GREAT CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza • 15 Nov – 26 Dec 2018
Sun – Thu: 11.30am – 10pm daily | Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 11pm daily | Christmas Week (20 – 24 Dec 2018): 11.30am – 11pm daily

Feast at the Timbre X Food Village & Bar, visit the Hitachi Santa House, have a merry time on our amusement rides or simply immerse yourself in the festive season with nightly live performances. Complimentary craft activities for kids are also available at the Hitachi Santa House. There’s definitely something for everyone at the Christmas Village!

Santa Claus Meet & Greet Sessions at the Hitachi Santa House
Fri & Sat: 7pm – 9pm daily

Post-Christmas, and we are on to the final week of the 2018... as well as the remaining week of the year-end school holidays. It's the final chance to add more fun to close the year on a high and I have just the suggestions for you. ENJOY!


Get some theme park fun in the sun!

Every single year seems to pass by faster and faster! 😱But you know what that means, don't you? Legit excuse for the kiddos to stay up waaaay past midnight to usher in the brand new year! So never mind the resolutions - count down to 2019 on New Year's Eve with your loved ones at these happening New Year's Eve Countdown Parties across Singapore on 31 December 2018.


From huge massive countdown parties with fireworks to countdown bashes in the heartlands if you wish to avoid the crowds, you will be spolit for choice. Best of all, I have marked out those that are certified FAMILY-FRIENDLY!

So grab your family members, and get ready to revel in the festivities and ring in 2019 in style!




Since its inception in 2005, the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown has become the nation’s largest and most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration ! Make no mistake, it is THE countdown event to head down to for the sheer amount of fringe activities, events and of course, its magnificent Fireworks display!

Where to snag the BEST Fireworks viewing spots? Head to my previous blog post for some tips!

Before the countdown, there are other activities happening around Marina Bay too:

Build a Dream Light Projection Show
In partnership with five welfare organisations and schools, Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2019 presents the Build a Dream campaign, a collective effort to support the less fortunate and contribute to their personal growth. From 26 to 31 December 2018, artworks created by students from these organisations will be transformed into light projections on Marina Bay’s iconic landmarks – The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, the Merlion and the ArtScience Museum.

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
Date: 26 - 30 December 2018
Time: 8pm - 10.30pm (every 15 minutes)
Date: 31 December 2018
Time: 8pm - 11.30pm (every 15 minutes)     

The Merlion
Date: 29 - 30 December 2018
Time: 8pm - 10.30pm (every 15 minutes)
Date: 31 December 2018
Time: 8pm - 11.30pm (every 15 minutes)

ArtScience Museum
Date: 29 - 31 December 2018
Time: 8.15pm, 8.30pm, 8.45pm, 9.15pm, 9.30pm, 9.45pm, 10.15pm, 10.30pm 

Prudential Marina Bay Carnival
22 Dec 2018 - 24 Mar 2019
4pm - 11pm
Bayfront Event Space

Brace yourself adventure-seekers because you’re in for a big treat! Returning for the second year, Prudential Marina Bay Carnival is Singapore’s biggest outdoor carnival, bringing up to 50 thrilling rides to the year-end festivities. Ring in the new year onboard four new thrilling rides this year.



Immerse yourself in a new action-packed universe of world-class fireworks, 3D surround sound, synchronised light displays and performances this New Year’s Eve with Star Island Singapore – presented for the first time out of Japan as part of the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown celebrations!

Be the first in Singapore to experience the futuristic magic of hanabi (Japanese for fireworks) entertainment at Star Island – a one-of-a-kind fireworks musical that marries larger-than-life pyrotechnics and lights, 3D sound technology and multi-disciplinary performance acts into one unforgettable night. Visitors will also find themselves immersed in the multi-sensory show with individual LED bands to add more light to the colourful celebrations.

There will also be pre-show activities for the whole family, a marketplace of delectable food and delights, as well as an after-party to dance into the new year. Don’t miss out on the biggest fireworks countdown event in Asia!

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: 11 pm – 1 am (Doors open: 5 pm)
Venue: The Float @ Marina Bay
Price: From $38
Website



The Civic District will be turned into a car-free activity hub for Car-Free NYE with various free activities to enjoy, such as fitness workouts, outdoor movie screenings and salsa dancing. A bazaar and lifestyle festival will keep avid shoppers busy, while kids will love the bouncy castles at Esplanade Park! Over at Empress Lawn, enjoy outdoor movie screenings and live band performances as evening falls. For a detailed listing of activities, visit HERE.

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: 5pm - 1am
Venue: Civic District
Price: FREE


Ring in the New Year with an explosion of technicolour fireworks against the gorgeous city skyline at The Promontory. Catch performances by Taufik Batisah, Gentle Bones, Joanna Dong, Shabir, Aisyah Aziz, Sufi Rashid and Mediacorp artistes Pierre Png, Carrie Wong, Romeo Tan, Sheila Sim, Joel Choo, SPOP Sing! Top 4 and more. Hosted by Chua En Lai and Sonia Chew. Entry is free but keep a lookout for exclusive mosh pit tickets through various contests. Doors open at 7pm.

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: From 7pm
Venue: The Promontory, Marina Bay
Price: FREE


Bid the year farewell with a bang! 2018 is ending, but the fun continues at Clarke Quay. 987FM’s Gerald Koh and Kimberly Wang will be celebrating 2019 along with the talented Shirlyn and The UnXpected. At Tan Tye Gate, a pedal-powered LED wall will illuminate the area with patterns and lights, while roaming Toy Soldiers and The Unicorn Parade will invite you to strike a pose for the ‘gram.
Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: 9pm - 12.30am
Venue: Clarke Quay, Fountain Square
Price: FREE


Bid goodbye to 2018 and welcome 2019 with your friends and family! This is your PARTY and a Family friendly Event with Bollywood theme! Bring on your mask for more fun with features including Bollywood DJ Music, Dholi, Variety programs, Karaoke, food, drinks and dance... with a great view of fireworks!

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: From 8pm
Venue: F1 Pit Building
Price: Adult $75 & Child $30 (Includes dinner)
Tickets HERE



If you are too lazy to join the crowd in town or are just simply adverse to atrocious traffic jams, do check your nearby GRC or Community Club for Countdown Parties in your neighbourhood. With numerious community countdown parties set to take place on Dec 31, look forward to an evening of non-stop fun for the family - and the perfect excuse to stay up past midnight!

Countdown 2019@ Our Tampines Hub
Venue: Our Tampines Hub
Time: 9am - 1am
Price: FREE


Residents can look forward to festivities all day long on 31 Dec, including a laser showcase and wave flames display for the first time. Children can enjoy fun fringe activities such as the Gladiator Challenge, which is Singapore’s largest ‘bouncy castle’ inflatable playground.

Countdown @ Nee Soon South 2018

Singapore’s first carbon neutral countdown party, where partnerorganisation SembCorp will be engaging an independent environmental consultant to analyse and calculate the total carbon footprint of the countdown party, and sponsoring to offset the carbon emission. Revel in the 3 thematic backdrops which showcase the different eras of Singapore as part of the fringe activities in commemoration of upcoming Bicentennial. Residents can enjoy performances from local big names such as Derrick Ho and Jumpstart Band, as well as food and game booths.

Silent Disco New Year Eve Countdown Party @ Heartbeat
Venue: Heartbeat@Bedok
Time: 9.30pm - 1am
Price: FREE


Record-breaking ‘Largest Silent Pop-Up Disco in the Heartland’ at Heartbeat@Bedok with
participants dancing to music on wireless headphones. There will also be a special onehour segment ‘Silent Disco Fitness Dance’ to remind residents to adopt a regular exercise regime and stay healthy during this festive season and the new year ahead.

Boon Lay Countdown 2019
Venue: Blk 215, Boon Lay Place (Hardcourt)
Time: 6.30pm onwards
Price: FREE


Bedazzled by the performing artistes on stage to celebrate the welcoming of 2019. Plenty of fun-filled game stalls and many other fringe activities for the young and old. Doesn't matter you are a resident of Boon Lay or not, we welcome ALL to join us in the annual BIGGEST CELEBRATION party!

Sembwang GRC Countdown to 2019
Venue: Open field between North Woodlands Way & Woodlands Ave 2
Time: 10pm - 12am
Price: FREE


Kaki Bukit Countdown to 2019
Venue: Kaki Bukit Neighbourhood Park
Time: 10.30pm - 12.30am
Price: FREE


Join us as One Community as we countdown together to welcome the year 2019! Look forward to a display of dazzling fireworks and performances to provide you a night of fun filled excitement.

MacPherson Countdown 2019
Venue: MacPherson CC
Time: 8pm - 12.30am
Price: $4


Residents can enjoy a countdown concert with sing and dancealong performances, as well as indulge in food from various stalls.

Clementi Countdown Party 2019
Venue: Clementi Town open space next to Block 447
Time: 7.30pm - 12.30am
Price: $4


Countdown to the Start of 2019 with Style at our very own Clementi Heartlands! Come celebrate with friends, family and many more; toast to the goodness of ushering in the New Year! Residents can pen down their new year wishes on a board and enjoy live performances by and fringe activities by the various local interest groups.

Sengkang West Countdown 2019
Venue: Open Plaza of Anchorvale CC
Time: 9pm - 12.15am
Price: $3


Head down to the Sengkang West Countdown 2019 for games, snacks, entertainment and much much more! Don’t forget FIREWORKS too!

Keat Hong Countdown 2019
Venue: Keat Hong Square
Time: 6pm to midnight
Price: $3


Bring your family along to enjoy an evening of fun with movie screening, variety of family carnival games, food and stage entertainment. Buy 3 tickets and receive a free picnic mat useful for outdoor movie screening!



OR if you are able to ditch the kiddos at home, then lucky you. Go wild and consider these parties instead.



Siloso Beach Party, Singapore's one and only Beach Countdown Party, is back with its 12th Edition!
When it comes to New Year’s Eve countdown parties, there’s no one that does it better than the Siloso Beach Party.

The annual dance affair, Singapore’s ONLY beach countdown party, returns for its 12th edition, featuring adrenaline-pumping music, spectacular fireworks and endless thrills. This iconic party promises a night of non-stop fun. Partygoers can also look forward to a medley of Asia’s finest DJs and a special headliner to soundtrack the festivities.

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: 6pm - 6am
Venue: Siloso Beach, Sentosa
Price: $68
Tickets HERE



Wrap up the year with epic night of debauchery as Zouk throws out an all-out bash in the name of fun. Rave into 2019 with an endless mix of crowd favourites courtesy of Hong, Zushan and Jeremy Boon, as well as a giddy mash of hip-hop, trap and thumping bass spun by the trio of LeNERD, Nash D and Ghetto at Capital.

Date: 31 Dec 2018
Time: 10pm til late
Venue: Zouk
Price: $60

Ash turns 14 today and do you know what's the most amazing part?

Both the wifey and I made it through our first year as parents of a teenager. And more importantly, we lived to tell the tale!


I think it's safe to say that both of us have learned a lot of things during the past year. Like going through 2 heart-stopping moments when Ash was hospitalised for cellulitis last March and then proceeded to get his pinkie toe get caught under a quad-cycle and ripping off a huge chunk of flesh in the process.

View this post on Instagram

Memories of Taiwan. Sometimes we have to take in the bad ones too. . Ash met with an accident on the 7th day of our trip. We were on Cijin Island at Kaohsiung, and rented a motorized quad-cycle. Somehow, one of his foot got caught in one of the back wheels and was dragged for a short distance. Ended up a huge chunk of flesh from his pinkie toe was sliced off. Super ouch, I know. . Brought him to the hospital immediately where the doctors ascertained that there was no bone fracture or tendons being severed. Phew. But because of the nature of the injury, crutches and wheelchair shall be his temporary best pals. . What doesn't break us make us stronger, and it was through this accident that I saw how close the 3 monkies were. Even though Ayd and Ale sobbed, they comforted Ash throughout the entire ordeal and assumed the role of butler. They took turns to fetch his crutches for him, wheeled him around and tried to cheer him up. . When we were in Kenting, Ash couldn't visit most of the attractions as they required walking so Ayd stayed with him near the tour bus as we went off. I'm heartened by how everyone made the best out of an unfortunate accident by staying positive. Even the nurses at the hospital remarked that the kiddos were so close and concerned for one another. And long may that continue. . Well, we certainly left with both good and bad memories - though Ash probably left a bit of flesh on the road somewhere on the island 😅 - but end of the day, we stick it through together as a family. . P.S. DON'T swipe to the last photo if you have a queasy stomach. His injury is gory and bloody. You've been warned. . P.P.S. Now that I've said it, you're probably going to do it anyway. 😂 . P.P.P.S. The crutches in Taiwan is really cheap! Only S$27! Should have bought a few more back to flip. 😂😂😂

A post shared by Kelvin Ang (@cheekiemonkies) on Dec 13, 2018 at 3:05am PST

But son, please ah... no more of these kind of thrills. My aging heart cannot take it.

On the other hand though, it has been an amazing journey watching him growing slowly into the man he is becoming. During the period when I was in pain due to my slipped disc, I remember the very fond moments that he tucked himself into bed with me and just sat there to keep me company. No words needed but his presence meant the world to me.


Each and every day, I feel blessed.

Although I have to admit that now that he is growing older, raising my voice and threatening to turn off the Wi-Fi at home don't really work anymore. 😂 But I guess that's what parents were created for... because teenagers aren't happy with nothing to ignore.

But I digress.

I love him for everything that he is.


He has a huge heart and never hesitates to help friends and family. He is especially loving towards his 4 grandparents and take great pains to look after them whenever we are outside with them.

He can be silly and goofy and can be on the floor convulsing in giggles with Ayd & Ale in a hearbeat.

He helps out around our home without question - ahem, well, most of the time anyway - and are ensures that his younger siblings clean up after themeselves too.

He helps to keep tabs on the wifey's spending by reminding her that she has more than enough clothes, shoes and bags to last for an entire lifetime whenever something new pops up in the house. 😜


Anyhow, here is to another year, dude.  I love it that we as a family still feature prominantly in your definition of a perfect birthday celebration. I do hope to retain our listing at the top for the next few years at least... before that girlfriend comes along. 😱

But yes, I am prepared to splash the Fortnite V-bucks on you in order to maintain our spot. I'm shallow like that. LOL.

Never ever forget we will forever retain certain rights to your love and affection... just because we made you. It is just too bad.

But if it makes you feel better, we really, really, really, really, really love you.


Have a smashing 14th birthday, son!

Inspired by its proximity to Sentosa and the sea, the new library adopts a coastal theme with waves in hues of blue and green. And it is designed with two distinct zones - one for adults and teens, and the other for children.

CHILDREN'S ZONE

And trust me when I say that kids will flock to the Children's Zone likes bees to honey.


This space features an Early Literacy collection for young readers aged 6 and below, as well as books for older children aged 7 to 12. There will also be a dedicated audio-visual and magazine collection where young readers can explore a wide range of learning materials.


What I love about the Children's Zone is the addition of soecially-designed reading spaces AND activity areas where kids and parents can read and learn together.


And for the first of its kind children's makerspace in a library for kids, look no further than the Tinker Truck!


Targeted at children aged 3 to 9, this dedicated space will enable kids to develop their creative, problem-solving and early literacy skills through a range of activities such as paper crafts and word puzzles.


Kids can also head into the Stories Come Alive room for a totally different experience.


It makes use of moving images, light and sound effects to make storytelling an immersive and interactive experience for kids.


In addition, kids can also discover Augmented Reality books on topics such as Space, Animals and Body Health, which will make reading a more interactive experience!


ADULTS' AND TEENS' ZONE

One unqiue feature of this zone is it will be volunteer-run and houses flexible programming areas.



Besides offering 2 Reading Lounges, this zone also incoporates a Learning Zone and flexible working spaces for different programmes to be held.



But I think most of the visitors will be flocking to the Reading Lounges.


Because of the sweeping scenic views that the areas offer.



Perfect way to spend the day, no? And it's FREE too! 😁


Oh, do let the kids try returning their borrowed books at library@harbourfront as they will be able to have a clear view of how their returned books are being sorted by the AutoSorter at the Book Drop!


Useful Information

library@harbourfront
Address: 1 Harbourfront Walk, #03-05 Vivocity, Singapore 098585
Opening Hours: Mon - Sun: 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Admission: FREE

Don Don Doki opens its third outlet at City Square Mall, and this is largest outlet in Singapore yet!


In case you are unfamiliar with Don Don Donki, it is a concept store selling products only made in Japan or of Japanese concept and is famed for low-priced yet quality Japanese goods.

And its newest store at City Square Mall will be its biggest one by far in Singapore with THREE unique features: a more extensive perishables and delicatessen offering, a food court and a bargain section.


Expect to find loads of offerings ranging from fruits and vegetables to meat, and from rice and noodles to snacks and everyday essentials.





In short, it is practically like a Japanese supermarket!





 The sushi looks quite cheap too... something that I think the monkies will love!



Looking for meat options for that Chinese New Year steamboat reunion dinner? You will be spoilt for choice here.


$10 for a pack of premium meat sounds pretty okay to me!



I don't know about you but I feel somewhat happy while strolling along the shopping aisles... I think it must be the explosion of coulours all around!



Kids (and adults) will love the BARGAIN SECTION, which allows for customers to hunt for treasure bargains starting from $1!!!



This area mimics the signature Don Quijote displays in Japan that use carton boxes and handwritten price tags.



There are truly some good bargains to be found here... I got a bunch of water balloons for only $1! And some Sanrio cutesy socks for the wifey and Ale at $4 per pair!



Hungry after all the bargain hunting? Head to the FOOD COURT which houses five different stores.


Stalls include the Tokyo Heijoen which procures only top quality Wagyu beef from all over Japan.


All I can say is you have to try the Wagyu beef - just the right amount of fat and oh-so-tender!!!


Hokkaido Ramen Santouka is well-known to be delicious to the very last drop.


Its seasoned broth is boiled for more than 17 hours and never reboiled to maintain and preserve the subtle sweetness and fragrance it is famed for.


Kaisen Bonta's signature dish is the grilled unagi (eel) which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.



Rang Mang Shokudo's speciality lies in its mouth-watering fried chicken which is handmade and best eaten with its 20 customised sauces.


For dessert, look no further than Naganum Ice Co-ie which offers its signature Hokkaido milk ice cream and assortment of cream puffs.



There is also a selection of other Japanese cuisine too, ranging from Japanese croqutte, Omu-soba and its die-die-must-try sweet potato.




Don Don Donki at City Square Mall occupies the space vacated by Toys 'R' Us at B2, and opens officially on 11 January 2019, 10am. Operating hours will be from 9am to 12 midnight daily thereafter.


Useful Information

Don Don Donki @ City Square Mall
180 Kitchener Road, City Square Mall B1
Opening Hours: 9am - 12 midnight daily

While this is the 12th edition of Project Refresh nationwide, it is also the sixth time that Young NTUC (YNTUC) and North East Community Development Council (CDC) collectively organised such an event - and this is the largest in terms of scale yet!


A total of 1,000 volunteers from unions, schools, corporate organisations, grassroots and Tampines residents came together to refresh the homes of low-income seniors living in the Tampines GRC. The objective was to improve these elderlies’ living environment so they can reside in safe, comfortable homes.


Project Refresh was mooted by YNTUC in 2016 to inspire volunteerism via an accessible platform. Since 2017, YNTUC has joined hands with North East CDC to run five Project Refresh in the North East District, making the latest edition the sixth and judging from the tremendous response, it has certainly grown from strength to strength.


A total of 96 household units in Tampines were selected to receive refurbishments works and these included cleaning, decluttering, painting and furniture replacement. We, together with other volunteers, were separated into groups and assigned to different units.


We were assigned to a unit which belonged to an 85-year-old man who lived alone. Our job scope was relatively straightforward which was helping to spring clean his home.

And the monkies promptly got down to work.




The work was nothing too taxing - most of it involved wiping away dust that had accumulated on furniture, window sills, doors and grilles.




It also marked the first time that the monkies tried their hand at dismantling an electric fan and cleaning the fan blades and grilles.




I think they can clean the fans at our home next. LOL.

The cleaning squad in the home wasn't just us. It also comprised of other youths who had also given up their Sundays to aid in the good cause.


One of the dirtiest place sin a home is usually the toilet and/or the kitchen, with plenty of grime stuck to its walls.


Took more than a bit of effort to scrub it clean, but the feeling of satisfaction was immense.


Besides cleaning works, some of the households were also in need of a fresh coat of paint.


So while Ash and I were busy scrubbing off grime from walls, both Ayd and Ale had a chance to help out in painting the walls of an elderly couple's home.



Through Project Refresh, the monkies had the opportunity to learn more about different perspectives from different groups of people from different walks of life.

Personally, I am not sure how much difference we made to the lives of the elderly folks that we met, but I am thankful we were able to bring some cheer to them. In fact, for the elderly man whose home we helped to clean, he was overjoyed with the company he had for the day.

So even though the efforts from the volunteers may last a day, the positive impact on the beneficiaries goes well beyond that.


But for us and the monkies especially, it was a truly sobering experience to see the other side of Singapore that we hardly come into contact with. Most, if not all, of the elders are living alone and it really made me feel truly grateful for all I had.

Family, friends, nice meals, a cosy bed and above all, a warm home.

These are things the monkies often take for granted, that they do not realize they have been blessed with.

So while we had the intention of setting out to spread some CNY festive cheer through Project Refresh, it turns out that we were the ones who would be blessed instead.



To find out about upcoming Project Refresh sessions and to volunteer, call North East CDC at 6424 4000.

i Light Marina Bay has always been one of my favourite Marina Bay events of the year and this year's edition will be BIGGER than before. Actually, the scale of it is so big that it has been renamed i Light Singapore - Bicentennial Edition!


This anchor event will kick-start the Singapore Bicentennial commemoration in 2019, and features a total of 33 (!) artworks, comprising 32 sustainable light art installations and a spectacular multimedia show. Curated to the theme “Bridges of Time”, i Light Singapore - Bicentennial Edition will be held from 28 January to 24 February 2019, AND IS FREE TO VISIT!


But do get your walking shoes ready because this year's light festival spans Marina Bay as well as the historical areas of Civic District, Singapore River and Raffles Terrace at Fort Canning Park.


In addition, it will feature five distinct programming hubs for festival-goers looking for a fun, engaging and unique experience as they traverse our iconic waterfront – bridging old and new Singapore along the Festival route.

The bulk of the light installations are congregated along the perimeter of Marina Bay so if you are bringing the kids, that will be a good place to start:

The Time Vortex
Location: The Helix bridge


Travel through time as The Helix bridge comes alive with a beautiful tunnel of moving lights whizzing through space.


Or to put it simply, expect this light installation to be the most instagrammable spot.


Lighthouse of Time
Location: ArtScience Museum Façade


For i Light Singapore - Bicentennial Edition, the façade of ArtScience Museum is transformed into a lighthouse for a new age; a gigantic light sculpture of dancing lights.


Viewers will be immersed in an atmosphere created by an abstracted dance of light and shadow, the coloured lights appear to possess mass and weight and seem to model the Museum façade by playing with the perception of space.

The Rainbow Connection
Location: Marina Bay Sands trellises


A display of solar light modules, made from upcycled cookie containers, is suspended to form a kaleidoscopic projection on the ground.

Why Green?
Location: Event Square


Through the use of 3D-printed versions of local flora, this installation provides insight into the Singaporean character. The love-to-instagram kind. 😂

Facey Thing
Location: Marina Bay waterfront promenade

Facey Thing is a fun blend of selfie culture and universal surveillance that creates hyperreal simulated images of ourselves through the art of play.


As passers-by come into range of the camera, facial tracking will identify their faces and blow them up onscreen as per spy television shows. When individuals become engaged and move closer to the screen, they can interact creatively by virtually painting with their faces.


Prospegtive Perspective
Location: Marina Bay lower boardwalk


Inspired by nation-building through the ages, an artist impression of Singapore's future skyline is created using humble clothes pegs.

The Floating Lighthouse
Location: Marina Bay lower boardwalk steps


Activate buttons to play pleasing sounds that accompany the emission of light from these quirky lighthouses.

Shadow Exposed
Location: Mist Walk (next to Red Dot Design Museum)


Shadow Exposed plays with the nature of projections being both moving images and a source of light. It invites visitors to interact with the installation using their own shadows to reveal or conceal layered images.

Sails Aloft
Location: Marina Bay waterfront promenade


Inspired by the original sampan panjang of the Orang Laut and by its later racing variations, Sails Aloft is a holographic art installation that creates a snapshot of a 19th century sailboat race in the region. Visible from both The Promontory and Mist Walk, the artwork is designed to catch the wind, just like the boat it is based on. And when it expands, it shows not just one race boat, but also some glimpses of its competitors, who are still neck and neck!

Shades of Temporality
Location: Marina Bay Link Mall entrance


Now this is one fun light installation!!! Using electronic paint rollers and custom software, people will be able to virtually "paint" videos, in real time, onto walls, creating endless combinations of moving murals in the process.

Cosmic Web
Location: Breeze Shelter


Inspired by spider webs and wormholes in space, this work creates a moment of isolation in a communal space.

Squiggle
Location: The Promontory @ Marina Bay


Instagram-worthy ALERT! Here lies a twisting mass of digital neon tubing which fills The Promontory @ Marina Bay with delightful colours; an abstract reflection of this multi-cultural world.


Visitors can also interact with the installation by using little joysticks to change the colours, speed and direction!


City Gazing Singapore
Location: The Lawn @ Marina Bay


Suspended over The Lawn @ Marina Bay, this work showcases the dynamic city of Singapore as if flying over it by night, with all street lights, homes and roads lit up.

Les Footballeurs
Location: Lawn next to One Marina Boulevard


Les Footballeurs captures the powerful movement of two football players; the attacker striking the ball and the goalkeeper making a save.


Head over to the Singapore River for a light, sound and water show, which is specially set up for the Singapore Bicentennial edition.

Bridges of Time
Location: Singapore River in front of Asian Civilisations Museum
Show Timings:Sundays – Thursdays: 8pm, 9pm, 10pm | Fridays & Saturdays: 8pm, 9pm, 10pm, 11pm
Show Duration: Approximately 10 minutes


Follow a universal traveller who sails through time and space to reach a mythical island in the East. Watch as a breathtaking ancient landscape glows magically on the historic Singapore River, against the contemporary city skyline. Using light, sound, projection and water, this immersive multimedia show creates a wondrous and breathtaking ancient landscape that glows magically on the historic Singapore River, against the contemporary city skyline.


Also, there are FIVE distinct hubs to visit around the festival area too:

Festival at the Fort @ i Light Singapore
Hosting the light art installations for the first time, the historic Raffles Terrace at Fort Canning Park will welcome visitors with a musical experience, as the National Parks Board presents Festival at the Fort @ i Light Singapore. Programme highlights include acoustic music acts and special piano showcases by local talents, roving performances, movie screenings and guided tours of the historic Fort Canning Hill led by fellow heritage lovers.

Eco Lawn @ i Light Singapore
In line with the sustainability focus of the light art festival, The Lawn @ Marina Bay will be transformed into Eco Lawn @ i Light Singapore, where environmental sustainability, fitness, and social good come together. Visitors can join local environmental social enterprise Terra SG to try their hands at a diverse range of upcycling workshops, or go on an ecologically-responsible shopping spree at the Sustainable Lifestyle Market. Alternatively, they can also choose to embrace a sustainable healthy lifestyle by joining the yoga and fitness activities under the beautiful City Gazing Singapore light art installation.

Camp Kilo @ i Light Singapore
Adding to the festivities, families and friends can gather at Camp Kilo @ i Light Singapore at Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza to enjoy eclectic groovy beats by resident DJs, engage in warm conversations and indulge in hearty outdoor grilled food served on biodegradable food ware.


Prudential Marina Bay Carnival @ i Light Singapore
For those looking for fun and thrill, Prudential Marina Bay Carnival @ i Light Singapore located at Bayfront Event Space will fit the bill with 50 thrilling rides and games from around the world, coupled with entertaining programmes and performances that are set to turn the precinct into a LED-lit, vibrant playground.

Transporta @ i Light Singapore
Visitors are invited to Transporta @ i Light Singapore at Esplanade Park to explore multi-dimensional, kaleidoscopic spaces and embark on a fantasy adventure that redefines logic and reality. This unique experience revolving around the space-time continuum of the universe is designed by a group of Singaporean multimedia designers and artists based on the Festival theme of ‘Bridges of Time’.


There are plenty of other light installations that I have not checked out yet so for the full list, this interactive map will be of great help. HAVE FUN!



Useful Information

i Light Singapore - Bicentennial Edition 2019
Dates: 28 Jan - 24 Feb 2019
Time: 7.30pm to 11pm daily, with an extension to 12mn on Fridays and Saturdays
Venue: Marina Bay Waterfront, Civic District, Fort Canning
Admission: Free
Website:www.ilightsingapore.sg

The Chinese New Year period is a time for house-to-house visiting, angpow-collecting (for the kids!) and feasting. But in between those house visits and eating, there are other fun ways to usher in the CNY in Singapore with the kids too.

There are loads of activities to ring in the festivities - some of them actually begin this weekend! - over the CNY period, PLUS additional activities to last through the entire FIFTEEN days of the new year!


So get the kiddos decked out in their new clothes and join in the CNY fun.. because with this list, there is absolutely NO reason to be lazy in this Year of the Pig!




Usher in the Year of the Pig by thronging the streets of Chinatown, taking in the sights and sounds of the month-long street light-up. Be enthralled by the creativity of the street light-up design, and drop by the street bazaar for a wide range of Chinese New Year goodies!

Street Light-Up
Now until 6 Mar 2019 | 7pm – 6am (4 & 5 February 2019); 7pm – 2am (Friday & Saturday); 7pm – 12mn (Sunday – Thursday) | Eu Tong Sen Street, New Bridge Road, South Bridge Road and Garden Bridge

Festive Street Bazaar
Now until 4 Feb 2019 | 6pm – 10.30pm (Daily); 6.00pm – 1.00am (Chinese New Year’s Eve) | Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple Streetand Trengganu Street

Nightly Stage Shows
Now until 4 Feb 2019 | 8pm - 10.30pm | Kreta Ayer Square

Chinatown Chinese New Year Countdown Party
4 Feb 2019 | 9.30pm – 12.30am | New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

Chingay 2019 @ Heartlands
17 Feb 2019 | 6pm - 10om | New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

The Chingay parade, the annual largest street performance and float parade in Asia, will make an appearance in Chinatown this year to bring the celebrations to a great height but also marking the end of the Chinese New Year Celebrations. Join us with your family and friends for a vibrant night that include special performances by local and overseas performers and not forgetting the 10 over beautifully decorated and lighted floats.


Usher in Chinese New Year with the mystical dragon dance through an exciting park-wide trail and join your favourite characters dressed in their New Year best! Ring in some good fortune with friends from Sesame Street as they celebrate with a Monster Lo Hei. Plus, enjoy thrilling rides and attractions! For more information, visit HERE.



Fish for prosperity at the S.E.A. Aquarium, where an auspicious underwater dragon dance and a lineup of fun, fortune-filled activities await you. So come join us for a joyous start to the Chinese New Year! For more information, visit HERE.



Pen-A-Wish
25 Jan – 19 Feb 2019 | 11am – 8pm | Merlion Plaza

Prosperity Drums
25 Jan – 19 Feb 2019 | 11am – 8pm | Merlion Plaza

CNY Mascot Walkabout
5-6 Feb 2019 | 11am, 12pm, 2.30pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm & 8pm (30 mins) | Merlion Plaza

Stage Performances
5-6 Feb 2019 | 5pm & 7pm (30 mins) | Merlion Plaza

CNY Mascot Walkabout (Stiltwalkers)
5-6 Feb 2019 | 11.30am, 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm (30 mins) | Beach Plaza

Lion Dance
5-6 Feb 2019 | 4.30pm & 6.30pm (30 mins) | Beach Plaza

LED Dragon Dance
5-6 Feb 2019 | 8.10pm & 9.10pm (30 mins) | Beach Plaza


Have fun on a whole new scale at Hasbro's first ever multi-brand live carnival in Asia - TOYBOX Powered by Hasbro.

The event promises to bring everyone’s favourite childhood toys to life including Transformers, My Little Pony, NERF, Monopoly, Cluedo, Baby Alive, and Play-Doh, as well as activities, live mascots, food, beverages, and merchandise stalls spread across the 4,800 square metre playground. Play credits for Games, activities, food, and beverages are available for purchase.


For more information, visit HERE.



Leap right into a prosperous year and celebrate spring with exciting festive performances and activities! Don't miss "Carps Leaping Over The Dragon's Gate", a magnificent LED performance of an auspicious Chinese myth! Catch exciting lion dances - Traditional Lion Dance and Lion Dance on Poles, and two Chinese Orchestra performances by top notch musicians from the Singapore Chinese Orchestra and Ding Yi Music Company. For more details on timings and activities, visit HERE.


Usher in the Chinese Year of the Pig with cooking demonstrations of traditional Peranakan dishes to give you a taste of the upcoming celebrations. Join in character tours in the galleries to prep for the tok panjang, a long table set for family reunions, and design your own plate inspired by the porcelain on display. Dress up to take a photo with your family in the photo corner, and don't forget to wish your elders "panjang panjang umor" (live long and prosper)!


FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
If you love fireworks, you’ll definitely not want to miss out on this year’s Fireworks Spectacular, where we bring in award-winning fireworks artists from across the globe to light up our night sky in FOUR very distinct and jaw-dropping ways! Watch as they create the ultimate fireworks experience for you with the perfect blend of pyrotechnic art, colours, lights and sounds. The fireworks schedule is as follow:



DAZZLING LANTERNS
These breath-taking larger-than-life lanterns depicting familiar Chinese mythological figures not only offer the perfect photo opportunity for you and your family, they also tell intriguing stories about Chinese cultural legends and myths.

EXHIBITION: A HARBOUR AND HOME: THE SINGAPORE RIVER THROUGH TIME
“A Harbour and Home: The Singapore River Through Time” takes you through a historical ride into our past, exploring the factors that led Singapore to its pinnacle success today. Take a close and personal look into the way of life of our forefathers and how they contributed to Singapore's rise as a global trading port in the early days. Embark on this eye-opening journey with us in a replica of a junkboat, an important icon for trade that decorated the shores of Singapore in the 1900's.

CARNIVAL
Hop on to over 20 thrilling rides and games  for a night of fun and entertainment. Say yes to guilty pleasures just for now and indulge in more than 40 different selections of comfort food that is bound to satisfy the glutton in you!



Discover the wildest version of the Three Little Pigs and the “Big Bad” Wolf at the Story Walk! Celebrate Chinese New Year with adorable Mini Pigs, Babirusa and Warthog at Singapore Zoo. Don’t forget to meet their friends: Collared Peccary (River Safari), Red River Hog (Night Safari), and Cape Barren Goose "Pig Goose" (Jurong Bird Park). Bring your whole family for fun-filled festive activities! It’s the most aus-pig-cious way to start the Year of the Pig.

For a detailed listing of all activities happening at Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari and Jurong Bird Park, visit HERE.


There will be a variety of performances on the grounds during the Open House. For an entrance fee of $2, visitors could tour selected function rooms in the Istana building and view a special display of gifts presented to the President and the Prime Minister. There are also guided tours of the Istana building, conducted by the Preservation of Sites and Monuments (PSM) volunteers. Istana souvenirs are also sold at the Open House. All proceeds from the sale of the souvenirs and the entrance fees collected are donated to charity.



An exciting and educational ballet series created just for children! As a lead-up to Singapore Dance Theatre’s 2019 opening production of Don Quixote, we have condensed this classic ballet into an hour-long special for young audiences! Don’t miss this dazzling, humorous and virtuosic ballet that sets out on a series of chivalrous acts and comical twists! Don Quixote is a glittering showstopper that tells a story of love, betrayal, and eternal devotion.

Told through narration and dance excerpts, Introduction to Don Quixote is a ballet for the young ones. Join us and learn more about the enthralling world of dance and ballet. There will also be a meet-and greet-session with the cast after the performance, so come dressed in your favourite costumes! For tickets, visit HERE.

After two successful runs of Child’s Play at Huayi 2017 and 2018, Singapore theatre director Danny Yeo, in collaboration with 3Pumpkins, returns with Child’s Play – The Story of the Banyan Tree.

Adapted from a classic local folklore, the immersive and interactive children-only theatre production is specially created for children from ages 6 to 11. Packed with hands-on activities and creative storytelling, children will learn the importance of teamwork, responsibility and problem-solving in this unique experiential environment and participative performance without the help of parents or teachers. For tickets, visit HERE.



Everyone gets an arts adventure of their choice this Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay invites you to the 17th edition of Huayi from 15 – 24 February 2019, in celebration of Chinese New Year with the community over the festive period. Complementing this diverse line-up of ticketed programmes is a spread of over 100 free performances and activities presented throughout the 10-day festival. From Chinese dance to instrumental concerts, puppetry performances to evergreen hits, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. For a list of FREE activities, visit HERE.


Gardeners' Day Out promises an entire day of gardening and lifestyle activities for everyone. Favourite highlights include Gardeners' Market, free talks and demonstrations, free garden tour of HortPark and kids' activities like storytelling and handicrafts!

Garden Walk
Time: 10 am to 11 am
Be inspired by the unique plants displayed at the themed gardens, as a guide takes you on an enjoyable tour. To join, register at the Visitor Services Centre by 9.45 am, and gather at the Meeting Point 5 min before the tour begins.

Colour Me Beautiful
Time: 9.30 am to 11.30 am
Venue: Level 1 Marketplace
Make new stylish accessories made from handpicked garden materials!



Usher in the Year of the Pig at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s Lunar New Year celebrations! Wan Qing Festival of Spring 2019 presents an exciting line-up of festive offerings suitable for all ages, including auspicious Lion and Dragon dance performances, heritage tours and trails, and craft activities for the little ones. Join in for the Memorial Hall’s signature mass lohei and toss to bountiful luck and prosperity, get your zodiac predictions for the new year, challenge your friends in our Kampung Games, enjoy an evening concert of contemporary and traditional performing arts, and more. For more details, visit HERE.


Total Defence Colouring and Craft
10:00am to 5:00pm
Parents can bond with their children over an engaging session of colouring and hands-on craft activities, specially designed to the TD theme. Through these activities, our little ones can be educated on the importance of TD when they learn how to identify the looming threats illustrated on the colouring sheets.

Operation Secure Singapore
10:00am to 5:00pm
The objective of this activity-based station is to instil an increased awareness among the students on how the different aspects and units of our defence forces are deployed in accordance with their operational functions, and work coherently and effectively together to ensure the overall security of Singapore. This was demonstrated especially during major international events like the Trump-Kim Summit. Each component played its part in this key event, which contributed to enhancing Singapore’s credibility and reputation in assuming our role as a reliable global and regional hub. Based on the scenario of the Trump-Kim Summit, participants will be given a map of Sentosa and surrounding areas, where they will place cards with names of SAF / Home Team units onto the various parts of the map. It illustrates how the operation involved both the Tri-Services and Home Team. After the session, the role of NSmen in our conscript system would also be emphasised.

3Cs and Grenade Throwing
10:00am to 5:00pm
Visitors can get to learn the fundamentals required when serving National Service and why the activities are important for security and self-confidence. They will learn the 3Cs (Camouflage, Conceal and Cover) and participate in the grenade throwing activity to have a feel of what it’s like to be a soldier. All these would reinforce the important message of maintaining physical fitness and training prior to National Service enlistment.


Wizarding World fans rejoice, as all manner of magical magnificence descend upon Changi Airport this festive season! From 16 November 2018 to mid-February 2019, witches, wizards and Muggles will get the opportunity to experience the magical Wizarding World, right in the heart of Changi Airport – where spaces will be transformed into iconic locations from the film series, complete with various themed activities and exclusive Harry Potter memorabilia.

Fans of all ages will get the chance to meander through the captivating Diagon Alley-inspired setup (located near Terminal 3 Check-In Row 11) and participate in fun activities. Fans can don a robe inside the iconic shop, Madam Malkin’s Robes for all Occasions, learn how to cast spells, practice their Quidditch skills at the Quaffle Toss game and stack coins on a giant Niffler replica.

Visitors are also welcomed to take a leisurely stroll along the High Street of the enchanting Hogsmeade Village-inspired setup and take in the sights of well-known shops featuring Zonko’s Joke Shop, Madam Puddifoot’s Tea Shop, Owl Post Office and even catch a glimpse of the famous Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the distance. Located right at Terminal 3 Departure Hall, fans and visitors will be spellbound by daily live shows and simulated snowfall – guaranteed to get them in that festive, wintery mood as they capture wonderful holiday memories with the Hogwarts Express as the perfect backdrop!



Brace yourself adventure-seekers because you’re in for a big treat! Returning for the second year, Prudential Marina Bay Carnival is Singapore’s biggest outdoor carnival, bringing up to 50 thrilling rides to the year-end festivities. Ring in the new year onboard four new thrilling rides this year.

Roving food trucks will be at hand to satiate hunger pangs; buskers will roll out entertainment; and visitors can learn new skills from local artisans through a curated series of art and craft workshops.


In commemoration of Total Defence Day 2019, S’pore Discovery Centre (SDC) has curated a special exhibition titled ‘Our Next Battlefront’. Key incidents over the past 200 years have reminded us that our nation’s peace is fragile and must always be protected. Fake news and cyber threats continue to be a key concern and are insidious threats to our sovereignty and survival. Be aware of our next battlefront as we play our part and become the first frontier to protect the peace in Singapore.

This special exhibition aims to heighten public awareness on how cyber threats and fake news can impact us and our survival as a nation. Lessons from the featured historical incidents of Singapore will also accentuate the efforts needed to combat the onslaught of modern day rumours, lies and propaganda initiatives in fake news.

8 February 1942 nightfall marked the moment when Japanese forces began the invasion of Singapore. By 15 February, it was all over when the British officially surrendered Singapore to the Japanese.

This year marks the 77th anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, which is considered one of the darkest moments in Singapore's short history because for the 3 years and 7 months, life in Singapore was a period of constant fear and hardship. Which is why come every 15 February (also known as Total Defence Day), we remember the sufferings of our forefathers during the Japanese Occupation, and remind ourselves that NEVER AGAIN shall Singapore fall. We can only trust ourselves to defend Singapore and protect all that we hold dear.


The current world we live presents different forms of threats -  terrorism, cyber-attacks, and regional tensions - so they serve important reminders that we should never our peace for granted.

But it is tough to expect the kids of today to fully understand the tough living conditions back in the days of the Japanese Occupation. Even for me, who have only heard horror stories about World War II from my grandparents.

But that does not mean we do not try to expose the kids to a grimmer aspect of our nation's history.

I do know that some schools have commemorated Total Defence Day by having the school canteens sell only white porridge or sweet potatoes on that day. My kids' school had switched off the fans for a few school periods as well, just to let the kids experience what it felt like to have minimal comforts.

On this 77th Anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, it makes for a good teaching moment to educate our kids on the history and the importance of defending what is important to us. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Re-live the hardships

Try water rationing at home, or try to cook a meal without the usual gas cooker. The latter was something that the monkies attempted over the weekend. I only provided them with a limited amount of water and other resources and they had to cook their own instant noodles for lunch.


Other than the fact that they actually do love instant noodles, a huge takeaway for them was how troublesome it was to share the water among themselves.

Maybe I will try something different next year and cut off the WiFi at home.

2. Our Next Battlefront下一道战线 - Total Defence Special Exhibition

In commemoration of Total Defence Day 2019, S’pore Discovery Centre (SDC) has curated a special exhibition titled ‘Our Next Battlefront’. Key incidents over the past 200 years have reminded us that our nation’s peace is fragile and must always be protected. Fake news and cyber threats continue to be a key concern and are insidious threats to our sovereignty and survival. Be aware of our next battlefront as we play our part and become the first frontier to protect the peace in Singapore.


This special exhibition aims to heighten public awareness on how cyber threats and fake news can impact us and our survival as a nation. Lessons from the featured historical incidents of Singapore will also accentuate the efforts needed to combat the onslaught of modern day rumours, lies and propaganda initiatives in fake news.

Address: Singapore Discovery Centre
Dates: Now until 24 Mar 2019
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm (Closed on Mondays except Public & School Term Holidays)
Free Admission for all Singaporeans and PRs
3. Kranji War Memorial

The Kranji War Memorial in Singapore honours the men and women from the Commonwealth who died in the line of duty during World War II. More than 4,400 white gravestones are erected in rows on the cemetery’s gentle slope. The Chinese Memorial, in plot 44, marks a mass grave for 69 Chinese servicemen who were killed by the Japanese when Singapore fell in February 1942. Next to the Kranji War Memorial is the Kranji Military Cemetery, with more than 1,400 burials of soldiers who died after World War II.


The Singapore State Cemetery, where the country’s first and second presidents, Encik Yusof Ishak and Dr Benjamin Henry Sheares, are buried is situated nearby as well.

Address: 9 Woodlands Road, Singapore 738656
Opening Hours: 8am - 6.30pm daily

4. Surviving the Japanese Occupation: War and its Legacies

Surviving the Japanese Occupation: War and its Legacies, which was formerly known as Memories at Old Ford Factory, is the site of the surrender of Singapore by British forces to the Japanese Imperial Army. Re-opening on 16 Feb 2017 and a national monument, its contents have been revamped and now features refreshed content and a new focus. The gallery subtitle highlights a new area of focus for the exhibition by looking at the impact of the war and the Occupation years, including the immediate and longer-term legacies of this period on Singapore and the region.


The exhibition space proper is broadly divided into three zones:

- Fall of Singapore: Outlines the events leading up to that fateful moment where British forces surrendered unconditionally to the Imperial Japanese Army in the Ford Factory boardroom.
- Becoming Syonan: Captures the diverse experiences of people during the Japanese Occupation.
- Legacies: Highlights the various legacies of war and Occupation in Singapore, from the political and social changes that arose and the ways we remember the war in Singapore today.

Address: 351 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 588192
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 9am – 5.30pm | Sundays, 12 noon – 5.30pm
FREE Admission

5. Battlebox Tours

The Battlebox is a former WWII British underground command centre inside Fort Canning Hill in the heart of Singapore City. It was part of the headquarters of Malaya Command, the army which defended Malaya and Singapore in WWII. It was inside the Battlebox that the British decided to surrender Singapore to the invading Japanese on 15 February 1942.


Today, the Battlebox is a museum that unveils the true causes behind “the worst disaster and largest capitulation in British history”. The Battlebox Tour, A Story of Strategy & Surrender, tells two stories - the fall of Malaya and Singapore in WWII, and how an underground command centre functioned during the war.

Address: 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622 (Fort Canning Park)
Opening Hours: 9.30am - 5.30pm
Admission: From $18 (adult) and $9 (child, 7-12 yrs old)
Website: www.battlebox.com.sg

6. Go on a World War II Heritage Trail

Launched in 2013. the World War II Trail consists of 13 spots that mark great historical events that occurred during World War II. It identifies war sites all over the island with each site marking either a battle area, such as the invasion sites at Sarimbun beach, or commemorates a significant event during the Occupation, such as the Sook Ching massacre sites.


The trail is free to explore at your own time so do download the guides before you set off to explore with the family:

Download World War 2 Trail Booklet
Download World War 2 App for iOS device
Download World War 2 App for Android device




At the end of the day, exposing our kids to Singapore's history can only do so much. Because beyond that, we can pledge to be more security conscious, to pick up lifesaving skills, or to strengthen community bonds in our personal capacity.

#NeverAgainSG will we let Singapore fall. Together, we can keep our country strong.




*This article first appeared in Feb 2015, and has been updated to include new exhibitions.

All of us can do with a Water Park getaway, especially when the weather gets really hot! There are a number of Water Parks in Johor, which are pretty near to us and also a much cheaper option... especially for families with kids.


We have been to the three largest Water Parks in Johor - DESARU COAST ADVENTURE WATERPARK, LEGOLAND MALAYSIA WATER PARK and AUSTIN HEIGHTS WATER PARK so here's my verdict on them in case you are wondering which Water Park to bring your kids for your next holiday!


DESARU COAST ADVENTURE WATERPARK


Located in Desaru and opened in July 2018, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is billed as one of the biggest waterparks in the world and is the newest water park to open in Johor.

Set against the backdrop of a traditional Malaysian fishing village, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is home to more than 20 wet and dry rides, slides and attractions spread over 5 zones. But what sets the water park apart from the rest is THREE unqiue attractions:

1. The region's FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND water rollercoaster
Kraken’s Revenge is a combination of a roller coaster and splashing flume ride that takes thrill seekers up 30-metres above the ground in rolling “boats” before swooping and spinning through a full 360-degree horizontal loop. The ride then takes a 27-metre drop to the shipwrecking Kraken sea monster waiting in the pool of water below! Riders can reach speeds up to 70 km/h as they plummet to a splashing finish. Absolutely thrilling stuff!


2. Tidal Wave Beach
Tidal Wave Beach is one of the biggest wave pools in the world with some of the world’s biggest man-made waves! This signature water feature at Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark spreads over nearly three acres and holds more than 4 million gallons of water. And this wave pool generates tidal waves. Yes, waves that actually reach up to 3m in height!


3. Kids Ahoy (Special zone for kids!)
In addition to the standard huge water play structure, complete with water slides and giant splash bucket, the water park has a dedicated children’s zone with three separate age-appropriate play areas filled with water play equipment with a combination of 13 different water slides designed for the waterpark’s younger kids!


Of course, there are the other usual water slides including a dry Pirate Ship ride and a Surf Simulator, and the quintessential Lazy River. Without a doubt, this is THE Water Park that the monkies are dying to go back to!


PROS:
- Superb variety of water activites to keep everyone happy
- Three unique attractions not found at the other 2 Water Parks
- Best for older kids and teens
- Younger kids and toddlers can have fun too at the dedicated water zone for kids
- Tidal Wave Pool is unlike other wave pools, even in Singapore
- Newest Water Park of the three

CONS:
- Far from Singapore; about 1.5 hour-drive
- Not suitable for a day trip
- Accommodation options are pricier


Details
Address: Desaru Coast, No. 4 Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar,  Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10am - 6pm daily
Hotel Options:  Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast,Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (Desaru Coast), Sand & Sandals Resort & Spa, Lotus Desaru Resort
Admssion Ticket: Adults RM128 | Child & Senior RM96
Website: https://desarucoast.com/Pages/Play/Desaru-Coast-Adventure-Waterpark


LEGOLAND MALAYSIA WATER PARK


Billed as the largest LEGOLAND Water Park in the world and opened in October 2013, the interactive and fully LEGO-themed Water Park offers 13 water attractions and unlike the usual water parks, this one is specially catered to children below the age of 12.


This is because as long as your child is above the height of 1.07m, then you will be glad to know that he/she will be eligible to tackle EVERY SINGLE attraction at LEGOLAND Malaysia Water Park. Expect twirly swirly water slides like the Brick Blaster, Red Rush, Splash 'N' Swirl and Wave Rider. OR you could go head-to-head with five other people at the LEGO Slide Racers!


For younger kids, there are four attractions to keep them busy and of the four, the DUPLO Splash Safari and Joker Soaker water playground will be a hit. The former is a large wading pool with shallow water with 3 short slides here as well as interactive and larger-than-life DUPLO creatures - perfect for toddlers.



The latter is a fun interactive play structure with different lengths, heights, types of slides and water cannons. Together with the Wave Pool and Lazy River, kids will definitely want to spend an entire day here!


PROS:
- Ample water activities to keep kids entertained
- Water slides are thrilling, but not that thrilling to put off kids
- Best for kids aged 10 and below
- Toddlers can have water fun at the water play areas too
- LEGO-themed
- Near to Singapore

CONS:
- Ticket price is the most expensive of the three
- Oldest Water Park of the three

Details
Address: 7, Jalan Legoland, Medini, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10am - 6pm daily
Hotel Options: LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel, Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri, Hotel Ramada Meridin Johor Bahru, Meridin@medini Hotel
Admssion Ticket: Adults RM149 | Child & Senior RM121
Website: www.legoland.com.my


AUSTIN HEIGHTS WATER PARK


Opened in December 2015, the themepark consists of three sections: water park, adventure park and sports & leisure park. The water park is home to a variety of water slides while the adventure park  features the longest indoor suspension adventure rope course in Malaysia. The sports & leisure park consists of go-karting,, Indoor Trampoline Centre and Ice Skating Rink.


Essentially, there are only 6 water slides for older kids and above, with the most thrilling coming in the form of the Yellow Wall where riders will slide down from a steep end and find themselves hurtling straight up again on a wide yellow slide!


For younger kids, there are the standard faves - a Lazy River, Wave Pool, and Water Playground. The Wave Pool is pretty boring with extremely gentle waves - although it will be good for families with toddlers. As for the Lazy River, the water appears to be of a greenish yellow colour so that could be a turn-off for some.


Overall, a decent and inexpensive water park to head to if you are planning on a last minute trip to Johor.


PROS:
- Extremely near to Singapore
- Cheapest admission price of the three
- Waves at Wave Pool are great for toddlers
- Availability of other activities like the Adventure Park and go-karting (extra charges apply).

CONS:
- Smallest Water Park of the three
- Least number of water slides
- Colour of the water at Lazy River may be a turn-off for some


Details
Address: No. 71, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10am - 7pm daily
Hotel Options: Midori Concept Hotel, Prince 33 Hotel, Austin Park Hotel, Cube 8Teen Boutique Suite
Admssion Ticket: Above 120cm RM80 | 120cm & below RM70 | Senior citizens (Aged 60 & above) RM70 | Below 3 years old RM12
Website: www.funtime.my/index

This March holidays, Sentosa FunFest is back with larger-than-life inflatables and popular Sanrio characters - Hello Kitty, My Melody and Gudetama!


Go gaga over the kawaii-ness of the lovable Sanrio characters and enjoy loads of inflatables fun along Palawan Beach. The best part is that admission is free!

Up your game by taking selfies or wefies with your favourite Sanrio Characters! Snap IG-worthy photos at the cosy home of Hello Kitty and My Melody, or simply laze the day away on a beach full of Gudetama.

Hello Kitty
Say Hi to Hello Kitty when you visit Sentosa FunFest! Your IG game can't go wrong when you're taking selfies/wefies with one of the world's most beloved cartoon character since 1975!

Gudetama
Be amazed by more than 300 Gudetama inflatables that are scattered all along Palawan Beach, and you won't be able to miss the the giant 3m tall egg yolk lounging on the sandy beach!

My Melody
Look out for My Melody, Hello Kitty's BFF, at various photo-points along Palawan Beach, and be prepared to be charmed by her kawaii-ness!

Inflatables Fun


Bring along the young ones to take on our larger-than-life inflatables, and let them run, climb, jump and bounce their way all over Palawan Beach!


Take on the Olympic Challenge
Channel your inner Ninja-Warrior spirit and run wild with 25-metres of kids-friendly inflatable fun! Don't forget to snap a shot of your victory pose after you have successfully conquered the challenge!

More Inflatables More Fun
Once you have conquered the Olympic Challenge, more fun awaits with more inflatables of all shapes and sizes laid out across Palawan Beach. - navigate across the Balancing Beam, escape from the Kids Maze, climb across the Traversing Wall, indulge in some bubbly fun at the foam pool and more!


Sentosa FunFest with Sanrio Characters
16 - 24 March | 10am - 7pm | Palawan Green | FREE Admission

SPEND & REDEEM

From 15 to 31 March 2019, spend at Suntec City and stand to redeem the following:

• “MARCH MORE FUN” Pass

With every spend of $50, redeem a “March More Fun” Pass in the form of a $5 e-Voucher. The pass can be utilized at the following shops:

• Cool de Sac (West Wing, #02-379)
• Diggersite (East Wing, #03-348)
• Funsiamo (North Wing, #02-458)
• Golden Village (East Wing, #03-373)
• La Plage (East Wing, #02-723)
• Smigy (East Wing, #02-600A)
• SuperPark Singapore (North Wing, #02-477)
• Teo Heng KTV Studio (East Wing, #03-380)
• The Polliwogs (East Wing, #02-724)
• Zero Latency (East Wing, #03-346)

The best part? You get a pass for EVERY $50 spent (limited to 3 passes per redemption per day) AND the passes can be ACCUMULATED, as long as you use them by 30 April 2019!

• Parking Coupon (worth $2.80) OR $2 ez-link Card Top-Up

With a minimum spend of $50, redeem a parking coupon worth $2.80, equivalent to FREE parking after 5pm on weekends or almost 2.5 hours of parking before 5pm on a weekend. Don't drive? Choose to receive a $2 ez-link Card top-up instead!

• $10 Suntec City Voucher

Hey big spender! There’s more rewards when you spend more! With a minimum spend of $120, to redeem a $10 Suntec City voucher – . That'sthat’s close to enjoying close to enjoying a 10% off rebate for your purchases!

FUN BY THE POOL

Other than the fab redemptions with spends, I am most excited about the'Fun by the Pool'event that will be taking place at Suntec City during the first weekend of the March School Holidays.


On 16 and 17 March 2019, State Swim will be organising FUN BY THE POOL specially for kids to try out its fun swimming lessons! A premier Australian swimming school with 17 locations across Australia, State Swim is now opening its doors in Singapore - right at Suntec City!

What's different about State Swim? State Swim believes that every child is unique and no one learns exactly the same way, this is why they have created our three state program; “Swim and Play” (Waterbabies and Kindergarten), “400 Gold” (4 years and above) and “Health and Sport” (squad training), cater to how each child learns best and gives them the skills needed to make them stronger, safer swimmers.


Located on Level 4 of Suntec City (access via Lobby M), here's your chance to let the kids participate in the lessons on 16 & 17 March for only $10! Not only will kids get to take part in a modified lesson and  play in the pool, they get to enjoy light refreshments and receive a goodie bag!

What's in the goodie bag, you ask? Worth over $60, you get a $10 State Swim Swimming Schools voucher, a $5 “MARCH MORE FUN” Pass (which can be used in the shops I mentioned above) and a Free Trial Lesson (worth $50)!

Reservation of slots can be done through the Suntec City app, available on a first-come-first-served basis.


Be it shopping, feasting or playing with your kids, get ready for a March More Fun time at Suntec City for the upcoming school holidays!


GIVEAWAY!

Suntec City is giving away tickets to FUN BY THE POOL to 4 lucky kiddos!

There will be 2 tickets given away for each of the following sessions:

SESSION 1
FOR KIDS AGED 6 MONTHS TO 3 YEARS & 11 MONTHS
16 March 2019; 9am to 10am session

SESSION 2
FOR KIDS AGED 4 YEARS & ABOVE
16 March 2019, 10.30am to 11.30am session

To participate, all you have to do is the following:

1. LIKE Suntec City's Facebook page HERE.
2. Choose which session you wish to win. Leave your comment either in the corresponding Facebook post HERE or in this blog post.


WANT TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING?
SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a BONUS chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

Giveaway ends on 10 March 2019, 2359 hours.

GOOD LUCK! 😊



Spend & Redeem Terms and Conditions
• Limited to a maximum of 3 “MARCH MORE FUN” Passes per member per day.
• Limited to first 500 redemptions for $10 Suntec City voucher.
• Limited to 1 redemption per shopper per day, available on a first-come-first-served and while stocks last.
• Limited to a maximum of 3 same-day receipts.
• “MARCH MORE FUN” e-Vouchers can be accumulated to be utilized at participating tenants’ outlets at Suntec City, from 15 March to 30 April 2019.

Congratulations on surviving the first term of a brand new school year! With the week-long March School Holidays around the corner, it is time to put the books away for a while and reward the kiddos with a little bit of fun.


And you have come to the right place... because I have compiled more than 40 activities for kids to take their pick this March School Holidays! Yes, there is hardly enough time given there are only 9 days of school holidays so that only makes early planning all the more important. Have fun!



Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Winner of over 85 international awards, including 16 for Best Musical, Matilda The Musical is now in its seventh year in London where it continues to delight audiences of all ages. For tickets, visit HERE.



Enter the dragon's mouth... for a gigan-teeth adventure! The dragon might be a mythical creature (or is it?) but its dental woes are definitely no myth. Follow the dragon dentist and his apprentice on an adventure of epic proportion as they help the poor creature with his toothy troubles.

An interactive theatre experience created for children ages 2 to 6, The Dragon’s Dentist is about overcoming our fears whilst embracing new experiences. For tickets, visit HERE.



Clarke Quay Fountain Square comes alive with street performers from Covent Garden. Watch thrilling acts, death defying stunts never seen before in Singapore. Fun for the whole family! For show timings and details, visit HERE.



Join in the fun for an immersive celebration of numbers and Pi week, filled with enriching activities. Experience the exhilarating discovery of numbers around you!

Gallery Trail
Explore various exhibits in our galleries and complete 3 specially curated activities to learn about the wonders of numbers!

Pi Wayfinding
Discover how we can locate objects using fixed points and circles! Use your new found knowledge to locate a hidden symbol within Science Centre.

Pi Hunt
Do you think you can derive pi using circumference and diameter? Explore the Galleries, and put your measuring skills to the test!

Fun with Calculations
Are you confident of calculating without the use of a calculator? Challenge your ability for mental calculations and pick up some cool tips!

Pi Memory Game Challenge
The Guinness World Record for the most digits of pi memorized is 70,000! Put your memory to the test by memorizing as many as you can!



The St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival in Singapore is an exciting event not to be missed – a time of the year when people around the world dress up in green, and celebrate the rich culture, arts, community and all things fun and Irish! Having grown every year since the first Parade in 2006, the St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival promises to be a true illustration of Singapore’s multi-cultural foundation.

Soak up the festive atmosphere of all things Irish, and come partake in the celebrations. So mark your calendars and go get your something green to wear for this coming St. Patrick’s Day!



Marina Square’s annual Balloon Exhibition returns this March School holidays with an out-of-this-world galactic adventure. Back for its ninth year running, this year’s instalment will see the 5,000 sq ft Central Atrium transformed into an interstellar universe!

Get set and blast into space with our gigantic 4.8m tall rocket, venture through a spacecraft tunnel and explore the universe of extraterrestrials, UFOs and more, created with inflated balloons.  Crafted by 40 world-class balloon artists from Spain, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, the awe-inspiring interstellar balloon sculptures constructed and installed using 100,000 balloons will bring you into a whole new dimension of balloon world.



For the first time, Science Centre Singapore is showcasing its STARLAB Planetarium in a shopping mall! Using a projector and an inflatable dome, the STARLAB planetarium simulates the experience of a starry night sky containing thousands of stars and allow you to enjoy a tour of the night sky, identify the key constellations and learn about how stars are named in the 30-minute show. Don't miss this special screening, held inconjunction with Marina Square's Galaxy Encounters Balloon Exhibition.

Simply present same-day $50* worth of shopping receipts at the registration booth set-up at the Central Atrium to admit 1 child and 1 accompanying adult. Limited seats per show,  on a first-come, first-served basis.



From 15 March to 1 May 2019, immerse yourself into the world of tokidoki. Slide, bounce and capture cute moments with Donutella and SANDy as tokidoki takes over Changi Airport at the Inflatable Playground, Exhibition Show Flat and ST3PS. That’s not all, bring home your very own tokidoki x Changi Airport premiums, merchandise and a complimentary photo souvenir! For more details visit HERE.


Save the date and join the Kampung's first ever Farmers' Market on 16 March 2019 (Sat) from 10am- 5pm! There will be plenty of workshops and activities for the kids. For more details, visit HERE.



Gardeners' Day Out promises an entire day of gardening and lifestyle activities for everyone. Favourite highlights include the Marketplace, free talks and demonstrations, free garden tour of HortPark and kids' activities like storytelling and handicrafts!


To close out the Term 1 School Holiday, ITE College West’s very own Symphonic Band, West Symphonia brings you and your family through a magical journey with the cinematic and enchanting music from Studio Ghibli. From the magical forest from Princess Mononoke all the way to the majestic but odd looking castle from Howl’s Moving Castle. Let your imagination take you on a journey thru the various stories and animation from Studio Ghibli. So sit back, reminisce on the shows enjoyed by millions from all over the world and let the music rekindle your childhood.

Fringe Activities
Photo Taking with roving characters from Ghibli animation series.
Time: 4:30pm to 5:00pm, 6pm to 6:45pm



See the Chingay 2019 float display in all their illumination glory!



Back by Popular Demand! In the far far Ocean Land, the Shark Family has been living peacefully along with their marine neighbors, until the playful little Baby Shark disappears! Daddy Shark immediately calls Pinkfong for help in finding the missing Baby Shark. To bring Baby Shark back to its family safely, Pinkfong and his brave friends embark on an adventurous journey. On their way to the far far Ocean Land, Pinkfong and his friends encounter dangerous situations. Digital Interactive Live Musical for the whole family, featuring Pinkfong All-time Best Hit Songs including "Baby Shark". For tickets, visit HERE.



Prepare to blast off on An Intergalactic Adventure with our intrepid star captain Alasdair Malloy! Join his cosmic crew on the Space Ship Orchestra as we depart Earth on a musical trek to the distant stars. We'll visit faraway planets and join forces in heroic Star Wars. Go boldly where no concert has gone before! Suitable for ages 4 to 14. For tickets, visit HERE.



On 16 and 17 March 2019, State Swim will be organising FUN BY THE POOL specially for kids to try out its fun swimming lessons! Located on Level 4 of Suntec City (access via Lobby M), here's your chance to let the kids participate in the lessons on 16 & 17 March for only $10! Not only will kids get to take part in a modified lesson and  play in the pool, they get to enjoy light refreshments and receive a goodie bag! Worth over $60, you get a $10 State Swim Swimming Schools voucher, a $5 “MARCH MORE FUN” Pass (which can be used in the shops I mentioned above) and a Free Trial Lesson (worth $50)! Reservation of slots can be done through the Suntec City app, available on a first-come-first-served basis.



Did you know that the National Stadium dome can fit four A380 planes wing to wing at its widest span? Find out more fun facts on the National Stadium when it opens to public this March and join us for athletic fun and fitness under this grand dome! Push your limits at our FIT-Sessions, beat the clock at the 2.4km challenge, form friendships over team games, and bond with your loved ones over sports and more! Don’t miss the chance for a snapshot too! Visit HERE for more information.


This March holidays, Sentosa FunFest is back with larger-than-life inflatables and popular Sanrio characters - Hello Kitty, My Melody and Gudetama! Go gaga over the kawaii-ness of the lovable Sanrio characters and enjoy loads of inflatables fun along Palawan Beach. The best part is that admission is free!

Bring along the young ones to take on our larger-than-life inflatables too, and let them run, climb, jump and bounce their way all over Palawan Beach! For more details, visit HERE.

Free Entry into Sentosa
From 16 - 24 March 2019, all locals and local residents can enjoy free entry into Sentosa via the Sentosa Express and Sentosa Gateway (drive-in)!
• Free entry at Sentosa Express for Local Residents. For EZ-link card users, simply tap and enter at the fare gates.
• Free entry at Sentosa Gantry is applicable at all lanes for all vehicles (including goods & commercial vehicles) with local registered IU except motorcycles and coaches.



It is the first school holiday of the year in March, bring the flock to Jurong Bird Park and get wild with feathered friends in a carnival! Giddy up on animal rides, roll about in a giant tea cup carousel or take aim at the game booths to win prizes! Young ones can bounce to their hearts’ content at an inflatable pirate ship, or hop onto a paddle boat to have fun in the water. For more details, visit HERE.

Fun Quiz
10.00am - 5.00pm
Search for clues in our galleries and win cool museum prizes.

DIY Greeting Card
10.00am - 5.00pm
Create your own greeting card with interesting sea mammals designs. Donations apply. While stocks last.

Jasper's Fast & Fearless Magic
3.00pm - 3.30pm
Witness the spectacular, fast and fearless magician, Jasper, as he surprises you with his blend of entertainment.


A collaboration with the Speak Good English Movement, sing-along with author Chen Wei Teng as she tells her story Murphy, See How You Shine! Murphy has always been different. He always feels like he does not belong. Yet he is a very special assistance dog. Will Murphy ever recognise that he can make the world a brighter place, in his own unique way? Murphy, See How You Shine! is a story that addresses themes of inclusion, self-acceptance, kindness and friendship—it is a story that celebrates the diversities in all of us.


Grab your mouse ears and get ready for the ultimate interactive event honoring the “True Original” in Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Super Celebration. Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy join Mickey on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Using Mickey’s Mouse Pad, show hosts invite fans to be a part of the action and help the gang as they venture though Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. For the first time in Singapore, see fearless Moana LIVE on ice, as she displays the courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the greatest demigod that ever lived, Maui. Continue the journey with your family to the wintery world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life. “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princess as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children around the world to celebrate their favorite Disney memories in this commemoration of 90 years of Mickey Mouse. For tickets, visit HERE.


From 20th to 26th March at Century Square and Tampines 1, join the cute and cuddly bear bros in fun‑filled activities centred around some of their favourite things – food and fun! Follow Panda, Grizz and Ice Bear at a food truck bazaar, or try your hand at creating your very own We Bare Bears keychains, tote bags and more!

You can also hang out and snap selfies with the bear squad at Pan Pan‑approved Insta‑worthy spots, including a fun picnic area and a fashion parade featuring the Bears themselves! Be sure to also catch the lovable bears as they spread paw‑sitivity through their warm bear hugs over the weekend!






Join in for an evening of delightful music with Victoria School Concert Band, Cedar Girls' School and Victoria Junior College Symphonic Bands! This musical performance is a celebration of music and friendship presented by performers from the Victoria-Cedar Alliance (VCA) schools. Be prepared to groove to the music as a repertoire of upbeat and familiar tunes such as Japanese Graffiti 15, Mayday Medley and Shape of You - a song made popular by Ed Sheeran.





Metta Welfare Association (MWA) is holding its annual family-bonding inclusive charity carnival in the heartlands of Simei. Embark the morning with a calorie-burning 3km family walk around the Simei estate before the real fun begin. If you love shopping, stop over and dive right in to our bazaar halls for the best shopping deals of snazzy fashion accessories, arts and crafts, dazzling costume jewellery, amazing terrariums, health food products and many more at attractive prices. Have a child or brood to tow? Get ready for some fun with bouncy castles and games! For the foodies, fill your tummies and indulge in our carnival favourites like pizza, nasi briyani, traditional kuehs, churros, iced coffee, ice cream and more!

Organised by the National Arts Council (NAC), Arts in Your Neighbourhood (AYN) returns for its 12th edition from 7 to 24 March 2019 over three weekends. This season, the focus town is Tampines – Singapore’s third largest new town, once a rubber plantation at the turn of the 20th century, and home to sand quarries for a long time.

From among 50 arts activities happening at 16 locations islandwide, close to half of the programmes are inspired by the vibrant history and iconic sights and sounds of Tampines. With a mix of quality arts offerings across different forms, AYN brings communities together through neighbourhood-centric programmes designed to foster a sense of belonging. This includes an interactive contemporary dance performance at the Tampines Round Market; music performances played from a roving musical truck featuring original melodies by young and old residents of Tampines; site-specific public art installations around the neighbourhood; and music compositions by local artists based on the unique sounds and stories from the community creatively remixed. For more details on programmes, visit HERE.



Get ready for a fantastic Flippin Fun’ this March school holidays at United Square as the mall engage and interact with the kids and forge closer family bonds with a series of exciting hands-on activities!

Flip Flop Carving Live Demo Sessions, followed by Flippin’ Fun Workshops
Monday to Friday: 12pm, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm & 6:30pm | Saturday and Sunday: 11:30am, 2:30pm, 4:30pm & 7:30pm (No showcase on Tuesday, 19 March) | Spend $60* ($40 for U-POPP members) to redeem for a Flippin’ Fun Activity Pass

Have you ever wondered what happened to the pair of flip flop which you have thrown away? Watch the creative artisan – Florence Auma Muga from Kenya as she transforms discarded flip-flops into colourful masterpieces in a 30-min live demo session. The event aims to bring forth a learn through play experience for school going children to educate them the importance of recycling and how we can save the earth. Parent-and-child teams can participate in the workshop sessions assisted by the artisans - Florence Auma Muga & Joe Mwakiremba to create their very own customized masterpieces with flip-flops



Brace yourself adventure-seekers because you’re in for a big treat! Returning for the second year, Prudential Marina Bay Carnival is Singapore’s biggest outdoor carnival, bringing up to 50 thrilling rides to the year-end festivities. Ring in the new year onboard four new thrilling rides this year.

Roving food trucks will be at hand to satiate hunger pangs; buskers will roll out entertainment; and visitors can learn new skills from local artisans through a curated series of art and craft workshops.



In commemoration of Total Defence Day 2019, S’pore Discovery Centre (SDC) has curated a special exhibition titled ‘Our Next Battlefront’. Key incidents over the past 200 years have reminded us that our nation’s peace is fragile and must always be protected. Fake news and cyber threats continue to be a key concern and are insidious threats to our sovereignty and survival. Be aware of our next battlefront as we play our part and become the first frontier to protect the peace in Singapore.

This special exhibition aims to heighten public awareness on how cyber threats and fake news can impact us and our survival as a nation. Lessons from the featured historical incidents of Singapore will also accentuate the efforts needed to combat the onslaught of modern day rumours, lies and propaganda initiatives in fake news.



Feel the crisp chill of early spring in the air at Flower Dome, and experience the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms at the Sakura Matsuri Floral Display. This year’s floral display showcases an elegant landscape more reminiscent than ever before of the Land of the Rising Sun. Take an idyllic stroll through a dramatic row of Torii gates ensconced beneath a breath-taking canopy of pink and white cherry blossoms, then cross a traditional red wooden bridge to peek through circular windows known as marumado, each perfectly framing a self-contained scene. There are 30 varieties of cherry blossoms to see!



Discover all things Pangolin this March! Learn about these curious creatures through exciting activities and remember to Pledge for Wildlife. For more details on activities, visit HERE.



The Singapore Heritage Festival (SHF) 2019 will be a special Singapore Bicentennial edition, with themes and programmes that will explore and commemorate this important juncture in our history. This year, the festival will take place over four weekends with events and programmes centred around precincts such as Kampong Gelam and Bedok. Explore the nooks and crannies of these spaces, and uncover their lesser-known stories, along with the fascinating people behind them! For more information, visit HERE.



Based on the well-loved Brothers Grimm classic fairy tale, Gretel and Hansel is a heartfelt, humorous and exciting tale about sibling rivalry, family love, courage and understanding what it means to be a big sister! The two children become both characters and storytellers as they bring audiences on a thrilling, imaginative journey. Gretel and Hansel will help encourage children to work together, appreciate their siblings and understand the importance of family love. For tickets, visit HERE.



Join the festivities at the Sesame Street 50 Years and Counting Celebration, only at Universal Studios Singapore! Party, play and learn with your family and friends at all-new interactive shows and exhibits featuring your favourite characters like Elmo and Cookie Monster.

Don’t miss the Sesame Street Birthday Blowout show with festive pop songs and a giant birthday cake. Visit Big Bird’s Nest, Abby’s Fairy Garden and sing and dance with Oscar the Grouch as he brings you the freshest beats from the streets. Then take a walk down Sesame Street and get cosy at Bert and Ernie’s Apartment!


Experience more thrills and more fun at Universal Studios Singapore after the sun goes down! On select evenings, enjoy the coolest line-up of nighttime activities during Universal After Hours. For the first time ever, experience the evening incarnation of the Hollywood Dreams Parade as it transforms into the Hollywood Dreams Light-Up Parade. See the floats and dancers in a new light as they’re illuminated with neon lights and LED magic.



Captain Marvel - Now showing
Wonder Park - Now showing
The Kids who would be King - Opens 21 Mar 2019



The school holidays are here again! Join ActiveSG's programmes to keep active, be happy and be sporty! Definitely a fun way to relax before school bell starts ringing again. Check out the list of sporting activities HERE.