Whats On in Singapore: Events, Activities & Full Guide

ib8-whats-on-singapore
ib8-whats-on-singapore

Singapore’s event calendar changes throughout the year, offering something for residents, business travellers, families, and tourists alike. From international concerts and cultural festivals to neighbourhood markets, sporting events, museum exhibitions, and waterfront performances, there is almost always something happening somewhere across the island.

If you’re searching for Whats On in Singapore, this guide explains where to look, what types of events are commonly available, and how to plan your visit. Because schedules and ticket availability can change, always confirm the latest information through official organisers before attending.


What is Whats On in Singapore?

Short answer: “Whats On in Singapore” refers to the current and upcoming events, festivals, performances, exhibitions, sporting activities, and community programmes taking place across Singapore.

Rather than being limited to concerts, the city’s event calendar includes arts festivals, museum exhibitions, food celebrations, family attractions, wellness activities, cultural performances, seasonal celebrations, and public events. Singapore’s excellent public transport network also makes it easy to travel between different venues in a single day.

The Singapore Tourism Board supports a year-round calendar featuring internationally recognised events alongside home-grown festivals that celebrate local creativity and multicultural traditions.


Featured Events Throughout the Year

Short answer: Singapore hosts major events every month, although exact schedules vary each year.

Instead of relying on fixed dates that may change, it is more useful to understand the main event categories that regularly appear on Singapore’s calendar.

Arts and Culture

Popular arts programmes include:

  • Theatre productions
  • Dance performances
  • Classical concerts
  • Contemporary art exhibitions
  • Photography showcases
  • Public art installations
  • Literary festivals

Many performances are held at the Esplanade, which regularly presents music, theatre, dance, exhibitions and free community programmes throughout the year.


Music and Live Entertainment

Music fans can usually find:

  • International concert tours
  • Singaporean artists
  • Jazz performances
  • Indie music
  • Rock concerts
  • Mandopop performances
  • Cantopop shows
  • Orchestra performances
  • Outdoor concerts

Live performances are frequently hosted at venues including:

  • Esplanade
  • Marina Bay Sands
  • Capitol Theatre
  • The Star Performing Arts Centre
  • Singapore Indoor Stadium
  • Zepp @ Big Box

Festivals

Singapore celebrates many cultural festivals throughout the year, including:

  • Chinese New Year celebrations
  • Hari Raya festivities
  • Deepavali events
  • Christmas celebrations
  • Mid-Autumn Festival activities
  • National Day celebrations
  • Singapore Food Festival
  • Singapore Comic Con
  • Various arts festivals

The country’s multicultural identity means visitors can experience traditions from Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian, and many international communities throughout the year.


Events by Interest

Arts, Museums and Exhibitions

Short answer: Singapore’s museums and galleries regularly present both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions.

Popular venues include:

  • National Gallery Singapore
  • Asian Civilisations Museum
  • National Museum of Singapore
  • ArtScience Museum
  • Singapore Art Museum

Temporary exhibitions frequently cover:

  • Contemporary art
  • History
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Fashion
  • Photography
  • Interactive family experiences

Concerts and Live Performances

Singapore attracts regional and international performers across many genres.

Regular performance styles include:

  • Pop
  • Rock
  • Jazz
  • Classical
  • Musical theatre
  • Comedy
  • Cultural performances
  • Dance productions

The Esplanade’s programme is especially well known for combining ticketed performances with free public shows throughout the week.


Food Events

Singapore’s food culture is one of its biggest attractions.

Depending on the season, visitors may find:

  • Food festivals
  • Hawker showcases
  • Night markets
  • Farmers’ markets
  • Specialty coffee festivals
  • Wine events
  • Cultural food celebrations
  • Restaurant promotions

Many neighbourhood festivals also include local food stalls alongside entertainment.


Family-Friendly Activities

Families have numerous options throughout the year.

Common family activities include:

  • Children’s theatre
  • Interactive exhibitions
  • Science workshops
  • Zoo programmes
  • Gardens by the Bay events
  • Holiday activities
  • Museum learning sessions
  • Community festivals

Many museums also organise school holiday programmes designed specifically for younger visitors.


Sports and Outdoor Events

Singapore regularly hosts sporting events including:

  • Running races
  • Cycling events
  • Community fitness sessions
  • Dragon boat competitions
  • International tournaments
  • Football matches
  • Tennis competitions
  • Motorsport events

Outdoor wellness programmes are also commonly organised in parks and waterfront areas.


Night Events

Singapore’s evenings remain lively with:

  • Marina Bay light shows
  • Outdoor concerts
  • Live music venues
  • Rooftop dining
  • Night markets
  • Late-night museums
  • Riverside entertainment
  • Cultural performances

Venue & District Highlights

Esplanade

Known as Singapore’s national performing arts centre, the Esplanade hosts:

  • Music
  • Theatre
  • Dance
  • Family programmes
  • Visual arts
  • Free performances

Its event calendar changes frequently and includes both international productions and Singaporean artists.


Marina Bay

Marina Bay regularly features:

  • Waterfront events
  • Light installations
  • Festivals
  • Public celebrations
  • Family attractions
  • Seasonal entertainment

The nearby Gardens by the Bay also hosts changing floral displays and evening light shows.


Orchard Road

While famous for shopping, Orchard Road also offers:

  • Pop-up events
  • Seasonal decorations
  • Retail festivals
  • Food events
  • Live entertainment

Major holiday periods often bring additional performances.


Chinatown

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Heritage festivals
  • Food experiences
  • Cultural performances
  • Walking tours
  • Temple celebrations
  • Night markets during selected festivals

Kampong Glam

This historic district is known for:

  • Independent cafés
  • Boutique shopping
  • Art events
  • Live music
  • Creative markets
  • Cultural festivals

Little India

Little India hosts colourful celebrations throughout the year, especially during Deepavali.

Visitors can experience:

  • Street decorations
  • Cultural performances
  • Food festivals
  • Community celebrations
  • Traditional shopping

Sentosa

Sentosa combines entertainment with outdoor activities including:

  • Beach events
  • Family attractions
  • Adventure experiences
  • Seasonal festivals
  • Night entertainment

Free & Budget-Friendly Picks

Short answer: Many enjoyable experiences in Singapore cost little or nothing.

Popular free activities include:

  • Outdoor concerts
  • Community performances
  • Public art exhibitions
  • Gardens by the Bay outdoor areas
  • Marina Bay waterfront walks
  • Heritage neighbourhood exploration
  • Nature parks
  • Weekend markets
  • Esplanade free programmes

Many community festivals also provide free performances and family-friendly entertainment.


Practical Guide

Where can I find upcoming events?

Reliable official sources include:

Schedules may change due to weather, operational requirements, or organiser decisions.


How do I buy tickets?

Most major events offer:

  • Official online booking
  • Venue box offices
  • Authorised ticketing partners

Always purchase through official or authorised sellers to reduce the risk of fraudulent tickets.


Getting around

Singapore’s transport system makes event travel relatively straightforward.

Options include:

  • MRT
  • Public buses
  • Taxis
  • Ride-hailing services
  • Walking in central districts

Many major venues are located close to MRT stations.


Accessibility

Many venues provide:

  • Wheelchair access
  • Accessible seating
  • Lift access
  • Family facilities

Accessibility services vary by venue, so checking ahead is recommended.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is Whats On in Singapore right now?

It refers to the latest concerts, exhibitions, festivals, sporting events, cultural programmes, family activities, and entertainment taking place across Singapore. Check official organisers for current schedules.

What events happen this weekend?

Weekend programmes often include live performances, museum exhibitions, markets, family activities, concerts, food festivals, and community events. Availability changes weekly.

Are there free things to do?

Yes. Singapore regularly offers free concerts, outdoor performances, public art, waterfront attractions, community festivals, and cultural activities.

Where can I find concerts?

Concerts are commonly held at:

  • Esplanade
  • Singapore Indoor Stadium
  • The Star Performing Arts Centre
  • Capitol Theatre
  • Marina Bay Sands
  • Zepp @ Big Box

Are events suitable for tourists?

Most public events welcome both residents and visitors. Some activities require advance booking or paid admission.

Are there family-friendly activities?

Yes. Museums, parks, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, the Singapore Zoo, and community festivals regularly organise activities suitable for children.

How far in advance should I book?

Popular concerts, international performances, and major festivals can sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended where possible.


Conclusion

The Whats On in Singapore calendar reflects the country’s reputation as a vibrant destination for arts, culture, entertainment, food, sports, and community experiences. Whether you are interested in world-class concerts, neighbourhood festivals, museum exhibitions, outdoor attractions, or family-friendly activities, there are opportunities throughout the year across the island.

Because programmes, dates, venues, and ticket availability can change, always verify the latest information through official organisers such as the Singapore Tourism Board, Esplanade, museums, and venue websites before making travel plans or purchasing tickets. This helps ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your visit.