Things to do in Singapore this week: 23 to 29 December

The month of December is finally here and it’s brimming with festive cheer. Whether you’re soaking in the Christmas spirit, exploring new hideouts, or simply looking for ways to make the most of the month, look no further. In this weekly roundup, we’ve gathered some of the most exciting activities for you to check out with your loved ones – from dazzling holiday displays to cosy workshops and indulgent feasts – that will make this December one to remember. 

New events this week: 23 to 29 December

Christmas Rendezvous (15 November to 25 December)

Bring your festive spirit and celebrate the holidays at the Christmas Rendezvous, a magical celebration held at Capitol Singapore and CHIJMES. From now until December 25, eventgoers can expect a European-inspired Christmas Market, brimming with unique crafts and delightful treats and enjoy the enchanting snowfall that turns the space into a dreamy winter wonderland every 30 minutes. On top of that, there will also be captivating Singing Tree performances by Voices of Singapore and the lively rhythms of SISAY’s Tropical Latin Christmas.

Christmas Rendezvous is located at Capitol Singapore and CHIJMES

Gift of Disney Cruise Line (8 November to 2 January)

Step into a world of Disney magic this holiday season at Jewel Changi Airport’s Canopy Park, home to Southeast Asia’s first Disney Cruise Line-inspired festive experience. From now till 2 January 2025, you’re invited to the magical world of Disney at Jewel where you’ll find whimsical displays like Mickey Mouse-shaped topiaries, a life-sized Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey, and a towering 2.6-metre Baymax nestled in the Foggy Bowls.

Stroll through the Petal Garden to discover a stunning 4-metre Disney Cruise Line funnel replica, complete with motion-activated portholes that reveal surprise appearances by beloved Disney and Pixar characters.

The Gift of Disney Cruise Line is located at Jewel Changi Airport

Ugly Sweater Brunch (8, 22, 29 December)

The festive season is in full swing and if you’re planning your next get-together with your friends or your loved ones, consider going for Capitol Kempinski’s Ugly Sweater Brunch at The Bar at 15 Stamford. During the Sunday brunch, The Bar at 15 Stamford Bar will be teaming up with Hendrick’s Gin to offer some of their latest festive concoctions. These delicious libations that will be on rotation include the Caramel-apple-infused Pie and zesty Mandarin cocktails made with Hendrick’s Gin, Gingerbread Negroni made with Hendrick’s Orbium Gin and the Christmas Punch made with Hendrick’s Flora Adora - the latest limited-edition gin from Hendrick’s Cabinet of Curiosities. Plus, if you come dressed to impress, you’ll stand a chance to win a limited-edition Hendrick’s G & Tea Time Set - complete with a 700cl Hendrick’s Gin bottle, stylish teapot and six matching cups and saucers.

Ugly Sweater Brunch is located at The Bar at 15 Stamford, The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore

Givenchy Beauty Holiday Pop-Up (19 December to 2 January 2025)

Spread the holiday cheer in true couture flair with Givenchy Beauty’s limited-edition Christmas makeup line and opulent gift sets. Over at the brand’s pop-up located at Metro Paragon, Metro cardholders can enjoy 15% off regular-priced items as well as receive Givenchy’s L’Interdit Body Milk 50ml (worth $26) with the purchase of any fragrance 50ml or an exclusive Givenchy Phone Ring (worth $25) with the purchase of any fragrance 80ml and above.

Givenchy Beauty Holiday Pop-Up is located at Metro Paragon, Level 2

The opening of Royal Host’s second outlet

The Japanese family restaurant chain Royal Host has launched its second outlet at Takashimaya Shopping Centre, following its Singapore debut at Jewel Changi earlier this year.

For the uninitiated, this beloved restaurant boasts a rich history and has earned a reputation in Japan as a go-to destination for families and friends to gather and celebrate special occasions and milestones, all while enjoying its warm and inviting atmosphere. Famed for its delightful Japanese-Western fusion cuisine, we had the chance to try some of their signature dishes like the Onion Gratin Soup, Lobster Bisque, Salmon & Mentaiko Sauce Pasta, and Royal Hamburg Steak, and Cosmo Seafood Doria, before ending the meal on a sweet note with Royal Host’s decadent Hot Fudge Sundae. 

Royal Host is located at Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road, #B2-25/26

Gardens by the Bay: Christmas Train Show (2 December to 5 January)

Gardens by the Bay is ushering in the festive cheer with its Christmas Train Show floral display that’s taking over Flower Dome. Held in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States in Singapore, this exciting exhibit will see model trains chugging past miniature versions of iconic American landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal and the Empire State Building.

Gardens by the Bay: Christmas Train Show is located at Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay

The Art of Banksy: Without Limits Exhibition (from 5 December)

If you’ve always been fascinated by Banksy’s works, then you’ll be glad to know that the acclaimed international exhibition The Art of Banksy: Without Limits is now in Singapore. Bringing the spirit of street art to an immersive exhibition close to you, the pop-up will house several experiential zones, which will see over 200 artworks such as certified originals, prints, photos, sculptures, installations, murals, and more. One of the highlights is the debut of a Walled Off Hotel style lobby, drawing inspiration from Banksy’s 2017 boutique hotel exhibition of the same name. Other must-sees include the “Dismaland” installations, the iconic “Phone Booth” sculpture, as well as a completely immersive “infinity room” full of mirrors and projections of Banksy’s artworks. 

The Art of Banksy: Without Limits Exhibition is located at 25 Scotts Road

Victoria’s Secret Holiday pop-up (3 to 25 December)

Refreshing your lingerie or loungewear wardrobe? Don’t miss Victoria’s Secret’s Holiday Post pop-up that’s happening at VivoCity from 12 to 15 December, and at ION Orchard from 18 to 25 December. At the pop-up, you’ll get to have a closer look at the brand’s festive offerings including its latest limited-edition Bombshell Glamour EDP, as well as their adorable and comfy PJ sets that are perfect for gifting.

Plus, spend over $149 in a single receipt to redeem and personalise your very own VS bag charm!

Victoria’s Secret Holiday pop-up is located at VivoCity and ION Orchard

World Christmas Market Singapore (5 to 25 December)

With the festive season in full swing, Singapore is buzzing with a delightful array of Christmas markets popping up across the city. This time, if you’re around the Marina Bay area, be sure to swing by the Promontory to check out the World Christmas Market Singapore. Happening from 5 to 25 December, visitors can shop for some festive handcrafted goodies that are perfect for gift-giving this Christmas. The market will also see a dedicated children’s area inspired by Nikolausdorf (Saint Nicholas’s Village), where you can leave your little ones to play while you do your festive shopping. Come hungry and treat yourself to a mouthwatering spread of traditional Christmas goodies, or dive into a variety of flavorful local and Asian dishes.

The World Christmas Market Singapore is located at The Promontory at Marina Bay

A Universal Christmas (29 November to 1 January)

Universal Studios Singapore brings to you the world of Wicked as part of its Universal Christmas celebration, where the characters from the enchanting Emerald City come to life. Here, you’ll get to meet Elphaba, Glinda and many more, while also indulging in some wicked snacks and smoothies right in the heart of the New York zone.

A Universal Christmas is located at Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway

Christmas Wonderland (29 November to 1 January)

The 11th edition of Singapore’s biggest yuletide fair is back. Presented by Trip.com and organised by Blue Sky Events, this year’s event is bigger and brighter than ever, with even more stunning light displays and festive performances.

Experience the joy of ‘snowfall’ in the tropics, surrounded by sparkling lights, and meet the adorable trio of Merry Bears. Wander through an enchanted forest, try your hand at carnival games, and enjoy festive performances by local artists. At the Christmas Wonderland fair, you can also indulge in delicious holiday treats and make memories with loved ones in this winter wonderland.

Christmas Wonderland is located at Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive

Harry Potter: Visions of Magic (From 22 November)

Potterheads, this one’s for you! The long-awaited Harry Potter: Visions of Magic interactive art exhibition will be opening its doors this Friday, 22 November. At the exhibition, fans will be treated to 10 exciting and immersive spaces that will transport you to the wizarding world of magic. Inspired by some of the most iconic scenes from Harry Potter including two never-before-seen environments, like The Chamber of Secrets and The Trap Door. Cast your spells with your interactive wands and watch as the world of magic unravels before you. At the end of exhibit, be sure to swing by the retail store to grab some Harry Potter merch like their mystery wand boxes, or head straight to the Butterbeer bar to grab a cold one before ending your experience.

Harry Potter: Visions of Magic is located at The Forum, Basement 1, Resorts World Sentosa

Illumi Singapore (From 13 September)

The world’s largest light, sound, and multimedia event of its kind, illuma Singapore is set to dazzle Singapore from 13 September. Held at the Bayfront Event Space, the night event will feature a slew of larger-than-life structures and innovative light installations including a winter wonderland-inspired zone called Wall of Lights, and adorable spaces like the Puppies and Kitties, a themed world that will see over 200 illuminated animal structures.

Speaking of pets, starting on October 13, for every second Sunday of the month, event-goers can also bring their furry friends to the event!

illumi Singapore is located at Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Ave

Carnival of Festive Cheer at CapitaLand Malls (6 November to 31 December)

From 6 November to 31 December, 17 CapitaLand malls will be buzzing with Asia’s first-ever chocolate and coffee-themed Christmas carnival, brought to life in collaboration with Nestlé.

At these malls, visitors can take selfies with the jolly KITKAT® Santa, participate in social media contests, and compete for delicious prizes while indulging in seasonal treats. Highlights include creamy NESCAFÉ® Affogatos, velvety KITKAT® Hot Cocoa, and rich Nespresso Chocolate Cappuccinos at the Brew-tiful Bars. At Plaza Singapura and Bugis+, you can expect to find carnival games and exclusive Nestlé pop-ups which will be selling some of their must-have products that are perfect for last-minute gift shopping. To top it all off, coffee lovers won’t want to miss the hands-on brewing workshops and latte art demos at Bugis+, where you can master the art of the perfect pour.

Carnival of Festive Cheer at CapitaLand Malls is located at Plaza Singapura (6 to 17 November), Bugis+ (20 November to 1 December) as well as other locations like Bugis Junction, Junction 8, SingPost Centre, Bukit Panjang Plaza and more.

PAST EVENTS

KENZO Metro Pop-Up (5 to 18 December)

Can’t decide on a gift for that friend of yours who loves her perfumes? Kenzo has its own pop-up at Metro Paragon, where you can find limited edition Christmas sets inspired by Japanese Kintsugi art with 2-piece gifts (worth $38) with the purchase of any Christmas set or KENZO fragrance (75ml and above). There are also other interactive experiences for you to try your hands on where you can win a complimentary fragrance sample.

KENZO Metro Pop-Up is located at Metro Paragon, Level 2

Beauty Fiesta (6 to 8 December, 13 to 15 December)

If you’ve yet to stock up on your beauty essentials from the recent Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale, then you’re in for a surprise because Beauty Fiesta will be making its return to Singapore Expo from 6 to 8 December and 13 to 15 December. You’ll find everything from must-have skincare to luxurious makeup as well as some of the most popular fragrances from your wishlist. Whether you’re treating yourself or your besties, the Beauty Fiesta is the perfect opportunity for you to snag your favourite beauty products at unbeatable prices that start from as low as $5.

Beauty Fiesta is located at Singapore Expo, Hall 4B

HighHouse First Anniversary & Supper Club (7 December)

It’s been a year since HighHouse first opened its doors in Singapore. And to celebrate the momentous occasion, the lounge will be hosting its First Anniversary Bash on 7 December. Indulge in live stations serving up foods inspired by the Pacific Coast ranging from Mexican burgers, Indonesian Squid, Ceviche and an oyster bar at level 61, before moving over to the dance floor, where DJ Aldrin and Fred E will be helming the decks, dishing out infectious tunes that will keep you grooving all night long. If you’re feeling parched, be sure to swing by the bar to grab some cocktails by bar consultant Jay Gray who will be doing his very own guest shift. 

HighHouse is located at 1 Raffles Place, Level 61 and 62

Merry Market (6 to 8 December)

As part of the first edition of its design-led fair series, Extra Curious Activities (ECA), New Bahru will be hosting its very own Merry Market this weekend. This festive market will showcase over 30 emerging local brands including a mix of beauty, food, fashion, home, and pet care brands, including online-only favourites like ROMI Beauty, the cult beauty brand founded by Yoyo Cao, Lin Ting, and Arissa Cheo, and Avant Culture Club, an ‘e-bodega’ for vinyl records and pop culture gems.

There will also be a lineup of over 15 creative workshops like the make-your-own winter-themed snow globe with Soilboy, craft tropical Christmas fairy wings with Chalk N Pencils, or master flower-making with a metal rose workshop by BAREMETAL.

The Merry Market is located at New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Rd

Light Shop pop-up (16 November to 8 December)

To celebrate the launch, Disney+ will be hosting a pop-up at Bugis, offering guests an immersive experience with interactive activities. Take part in a treasure hunt to uncover hidden clues, and as a reward, you’ll receive your very own Light Shop keychain and charm. Plus, don’t miss the chance to snap some memorable moments at the black-and-white photobooth.

The Light Shop Pop-up is located at 251 Victoria Street

Singapore Cat Festival (7 to 8 December)

Looking for a gift to surprise your fellow pawrents or simply finding a new activity for your feline pals? This weekend, the Singapore Cat Festival will be taking over Singapore Expo for two days from 7 to 8 December. At the event, you can expect to find local cat product vendors, artists, and activities where you can also exchange cat care tips with other like-minded cat lovers, or even meet some furry felines looking for their forever homes.

Singapore Cat Festival is located at Singapore Expo, Hall 6A

Sentosa GrillFest (14 to 17 November, 22 to 24 November, 29 November to 1 December, 6 to 8 December)

Have a grilling good time at Sentosa’s long-awaited GrillFest. Now in its seventh edition, this event invites food lovers to indulge in a delicious spread of local and international cuisine across four unique zones. Enjoy live performances including live DJ sets and exciting fire show performances under the stars, or make it extra special by booking a private teepee for an exclusive full-course dining experience.

Sentosa GrillFest is located at Siloso Beachfront