Cheryl Sekkappan

Nothing beats getting your nose stuck in a paperback. These bookstores line their walls and displays with a wide range of print publications including secondhand gems and specialty books and magazines to niche readers. Besides endless shelves of hard copies, these are also the best spots to check out the works of local authors and the literary scene in Singapore. Time to refresh that reading list and get lost in the pages of your new favourite book! RECOMMENDED: The best independent and alternative cinemas in Singapore and The best hidden cafés in Singapore for a quiet brunch sesh    

News of club closures and sober youngsters might have you thinking that nightlife is dead. We’re here to tell you – with proof! – that you couldn’t be further from the truth.  The way we go out might be different, but people are by no means staying in. Cities are adapting to our changing nightlife habits: as summers get hotter, street parties and rooftop raves are bigger than ever. Rather than heading to one or two big-name venues, locals are flocking to new nightlife districts for an evening of bar-hopping and curbside drinking. And, trust us, the nightclub isn’t going anywhere – in fact, communities and local governments have successfully rallied to save historic nightlife venues (in Berlin’s case, they’ve even managed to grant techno UNESCO-listed status). So, we’re here to celebrate going out in the city. From Bangkok to Berlin, Medellin to Mexico City, Time Out’s Best Cities for Nightlife with Intrepid Travel is the ultimate guide to today’s after-hours capitals. To curate the ranking, we went straight to the people who know their city best – the locals – and asked them to tell us all about the nightlife scene in their hometown right now. We asked them about everything from clubbing to cocktail bars, how affordable it is to go out at night, the overall quality of nightlife in their city, how easy it is to find community, and how safe, exciting, welcoming and diverse their city is. After crunching all that data, a panel of nightlife experts – Time Out’s city editors, cult

2026 update: Gardens by the Bay remains one of Singapore's top attractions (and third-best in the world), famed for its futuristic SuperTrees, gorgeous gardens, and spectacular events that run the gamut of world-class art exhibitions and character-themed floral displays. Since this list was last updated in 2021, the gardens have added an immersive exhibition space, revamped its food hall, and refreshed its upscale dining concepts.  There's plenty more in store for Gardens by the Bay, too. Bay East Garden opens in 2027, and a 5-hectare TeamLabs attraction comes in 2028. That's not to mention a new bridge linking to Marina Reservoir, a new food court, and al fresco dining. Perhaps it'll clinch the honour of world's best attraction next.  You may or may not remember a time when Gardens by the Bay was just... the sea. All 250 acres of the Gardens sits on reclaimed land, and it is now an iconic marker of Singapore and our 'City in a Garden' ambitions. From the futuristic biodomes, and the surreal Supertrees, to the sweeping waterfront gardens – there's no denying that Gardens by the Bay is simply majestic.  This feat of design and engineering is not only nice to look at. The conservatories replicate climates you'd never get in Singapore so that you can enjoy hundreds of exotic plant species up close. The alien Supertrees – when not being an Insta-moment themselves – provide a fantastic vantage point over Marina Bay. Meanwhile, there are a multitude of outdoor gardens and amenities

Here's a festival unlike any other in Singapore: the Hungry Ghost Festival. Every year, for a month, the Chinese honour the memories of those who have deceased. The Hungry Ghost Festival is much rooted in Buddhist and Taoist culture and happens during the seventh month of the Lunar calendar across fourteen days.  When is the Hungry Ghost Festival? 2026's Hungry Ghost Festival lasts from August 13 to September 10.  What happens during Hungry Ghost Festival? During the Hungry Ghost Festival, it is believed that the dead return to 'visit' the living – and they can get mischievous if they are not pleased. To satisfy them, various offerings are made including hell money, flashy cars, fancy jewellery, lavish mansions, and even the latest iPhone – all in paper form of course. Getai shows are also held all around the island to keep our otherworldly guests entertained. Most of the shows include song and dance performances, Chinese opera, and comedy.  As with other celebrations and festivals in Singapore, there is a list of dos and don'ts we should observe (we're a superstitious lot!) – we unpack the list.  RECOMMENDED: The most haunted places in Singapore

Gone are the days when cafés mostly offered the same eggs benny or tired rainbow cakes. Singapore’s café scene today is bursting with creativity, character, and caffeine-fulled ambition. Whether you’re after a quiet café for remote work, an aesthetic brunch spot for the ‘gram, or an under-the-radar coffee hideout, this city delivers, and more.  This guide isn’t just for the coffee snobs (though we love you, too). It’s for anyone who loves discovering great food, thoughtful design, warm service, maybe even a surprise or two – like a latte made with cereal milk or excellent sourdoughs right beside a lake in Yishun. From minimalist nooks in the heartlands to buzzing bakeries in the city, these 50 cafés have all been handpicked by our editors and contributors, and are places we’d happily revisit any day of the week.  We’ve included everything from enduring favourites and cult-status cornerstones, to low-key gems you’ll wish you found out about sooner. And if you’re after a more specific vibe – say, pet-friendly spots or dessert-first cafés, we’ve got separate guides for those too. RECOMMENDED: Discover new cafés in Singapore here and here

‘Overtourism’. It’s more than a buzzword – in the world’s most popular destinations, it’s a problem that affects almost every aspect of local life, from the environment to the cost of renting, transport and eating out. And when a place is overwhelmed by people, it’s not only locals’ quality of life that suffers; the quality of your trip does, too. But it’s not all bad. Destinations are coming up with ways to redistribute tourism from densely crowded hotspots to lesser-visited regions. Travellers are seeking cooler climes and embracing slow travel, allowing space to discover somewhere new. And they’re still riding the ‘destination dupes’ trend, where overrun holiday destinations are swapped out for less crowded, less expensive, but just-as-good alternatives. On our newly updated list of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, you won’t find your Bangkoks or your Balis, your Amalfis or your Amsterdams. What you will find is the hidden side of Yosemite, the French Riviera’s overlooked twin, a place where penguins outnumber people, and plenty more travel inspo where that came from.Why trust us? Because we’ve been to them all. Every spot on this list was picked by one of our expert editors and globetrotting travel writers, recommended because they offer great (or quiet) alternatives to the classics – and in many cases, because they’re places that actually want tourism. In other words, travelling to any of these 33 criminally overlooked destinations is a win-win situation.

Singapore turns 61 this year, and the celebrations aren’t just confined to August 9. All across the city, the National Day kampung spirit is already in full swing, with exhibitions, performances and pop-ups happening before, during and even after the big day itself. Whether you’re chasing fireworks, celebrating local heritage, or simply vibing with the red-and-white energy, there’s no better time to show your Singapore pride. From dazzling fireworks to family-friendly festivals, we’ve rounded up the best ways to soak in the season. So rally the crew and get ready to paint the town red and white – here’s where to head this National Day. RECOMMENDED: The guide to National Day and the best places to catch fireworks for free on National Day in Singapore  

Anniversaries are meant to be celebrated with gusto, and Singapore knows just how to party when it comes to National Day. Observed on August 9, the yearly affair marks Singapore’s independence from Malaysia. The city dresses for the occasion with flags lining the buildings, patriotic songs pervading the airwaves, people kitted out in red and white, and of course, the National Day Parade (NDP). Here’s the NDP in a nutshell: impressive aerial displays, military parades, and multicultural performances – all wrapped up with stunning fireworks. What’s more: this year's parade returns to the historic National Stadium after a decade. Whether you're planning to pop the poppers outdoors or join in the fun from home, here's everything you need to know about NDP2026. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Singapore newsletter for the best of the city straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: The best places to watch NDP fireworks in Singapore for 2026 and NDP Fireworks 2026: Schedule, Timing and Where To Watch 

Analogue is making a comeback in 2026, and cafés and bars in Singapore are fully embracing the movement. Across the city, there's been a growing number of listening lounges that pair curated soundtracks with speciality coffee and cocktails. Granted, that number is smaller than we'd like, but there are still a handful of spots that guarantee a good time when you visit. These sonic sanctuaries that we've shortlisted come equipped with impressive vinyl collections, turntables and state-of-the-art sound systems that put the listening experience front and centre, while serving up a solid food and drink menu to boot. If you're a self-professed audiophile, these are the cafés and bars in Singapore you should definitely have on your list. July 2026: We've noted closures of old haunts like Vertigo 26 and Simply Analog by Tin Box, while expanding our previous bars-only list to include cafés like Muro Coffee, Slow Boat and Swee Lee Clarke Quay. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore and The best record stores in Singapore

It's that time of year when we hang up our national flags and brush up on classic National Day songs like Home and Where I Belong. On August 9, the nation will congregate at the historic National Stadium to celebrate how far we've come together and pledge to unite on the path ahead.This year’s parade is slightly different from the past. It will not include segments like the mobile column, Red Lions and aerial displays. Instead, you can expect an indoor drone show, aerial performances, and special effects. The presidential gun salute will also take place at Kallang Basin for the first time as well. And no National Day is complete without the iconic fireworks. Keen to catch the spectacular display? Here are the best places to catch the NDP 2026 fireworks in Singapore. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Singapore newsletter for the best of the city straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: NDP Rehearsal Fireworks 2025: Dates and schedules and The best National Day songs of all time

Singapore's culture scene is wildly underrated, more so than most would think. This is especially true since it's home to some of the best museums and galleries in the region. This July, get out of your comfort zone and fill your free time getting reacquainted with Singapore's art and culture scene. Head to a museum to learn more about the untold stories and history that have shaped our identity. The best part? It makes for a great activity for two. If you're not sure where to start, we've curated a list of essential museums to visit. But for something more than the usual arts-focused spaces, scroll on down for our round-up of a broad spectrum of other funky collections: toys, musical boxes, optical illusions and more. RECOMMENDED: The best reading spots in Singapore and the best things to do in Singapore in groups of two 

Nothing's better than a cool drink in Singapore's tropical weather. Or how about a refreshing dip instead? When temperatures are high, take the kids out to cool down at these free aqua playgrounds around the island (though in one case, it's a steamy warm bath for the feet). We've checked out where to go for the best sprinklers, bubblers and water fountains that are great for kids (and adults). Best of all, they are all in public spaces and have absolutely no admission fees.  RECOMMENDED:  The best public pools in Singapore and The best indoor playgrounds in Singapore

Acclaimed Chinese contemporary artist Ma Dongmin brings his vivid equine portraits to the Leica Store South Beach Quarter with his major solo exhibition, Fire Horse – The Decisive Moment. It features over 20 oil-on-canvas masterpieces from his celebrated Blue Fire Horse Collection 2026, alongside brand-new paintings such as Twilight Ascension, Radiant Storm, Velvet Thunder and Celestial Pulse. Among the showcase highlights is the Singapore premiere of Registered Kiss, Ma’s interpretation of Alfred Eisenstaedt’s legendary 1945 photograph, V-J Day in Times Square. Beyond just a display of his artistry, the exhibition also offers insight into Ma’s practice, how he combines photography with painting, and his fascination with horses and the colour blue. Using a Leica Q camera to study the creature’s graceful movements, he transforms these delicate moments into energetic, surreal cerulean artworks filled with motion and emotion. RSVP for a complimentary pass here – tickets are limited. 

Tai Seng gets a bad rep as a boring industrial town, but Kapo Factory Building proves that the neighbourhood has a creative edge. This 1970s industrial block just a stone's throw from Tai Seng MRT is a surprising and thriving hub of vinyl record shops, music studios, ceramic workshops, and curated lifestyle good stores. Pick up screen-printed t-shirts and zines at Open Door Store, antique goods at Treasure at Home, vintage vinyl at Red Point Record Warehouse, and so much more. We recommend looking out for block-party weekends so you can explore permanent tenants alongside pop-up F&B and live performances.  Check out our full guide to Kapo Factory Building here. 

It’s a sweet, sweet Christmas this year at The Christmas Atelier. Singapore’s favourite holiday market transforms The Cube @ Asia Square into a Candy Emporium, promising picture-perfect moments with vibrant decor, dazzling installations, and sweet treats at every turn. With 100 local brands gathered in one place, discover handcrafted batik from Yeomama Batik, gourmet cheese from Cheeselads, vegan skincare from Handmade Heroes, and a range of other homegrown favourites in fashion, beauty, F&B and lifestyle. From just $6, grab your ticket for multiple entries throughout the day into this whimsical Candy Emporium, complete with a Yeo’s drink, Cloversoft essentials, and $5 off with a minimum spend of $100 at your favourite brands. The icing on the Christmas cake: stand a chance to win lucky draw prizes worth up to $2,000. Get your tickets to The Christmas Atelier 2025 here. 

The Singapore Oceanarium bursts onto the scene as a dramatic upgrade of its predecessor, now three times bigger, with 22 immersive zones, life-sized animatronics, interactive exhibits, and digital projections working together to bring the story of the ocean and its habitats to life. There's a clearer narrative now as you journey through the oceanarium, starting with a single drop of water and prehistoric marine creatures, progressing through various ocean habitats to the future of our oceans.  Our top tip: set aside at least three hours to explore the Singapore Oceanarium – even more if you're the sort who likes to read every panel and try every activity. And we certainly lost some time zoning out in front of the 36-metre panel full of sharks, rays, and fish in the Open Ocean zone.  However, if you're short on time, here are our top picks from the Singapore Oceanarium.  Ocean Wonders The second zone in the Singapore Oceanarium is simply mesmerising. The darkened room is filled with sea jelly exhibits – Don't miss the fried egg sea jelly (it looks exactly like what its name suggests) and the graceful Pacific sea nettle. But the mother of them all is the 6.8 metre diameter kriesel tank, one of the world's largest. The moon-like circular panel houses thousands of moon jellies, drifting with a gentle current under ever-changing lights.  Ancient Waters Next is Ancient Waters, a zone dedicated to prehistoric sea creatures. Upon entering the zone, you're immediately greeted by a sus

If you find yourself endlessly scrolling, refreshing, and swiping, it might be time to hit pause. StarHub invites everyone to step away from the screen and Find Their Digital Balance at the StarHub 5G Wellness Festival, happening on September 13 and 14, from 10am to 9pm at Capital Outdoor Plaza.  The journey begins with the Digital BMI (Balanced Media Index) Quiz, a quick and eye-opening check-in on your digital habits. Find out if you’re Digitally Detached, Balanced, Overstimulated, or Burnt Out, and get a personalised digital wellbeing prescription matched to StarHub’s five grounding pillars: Gather, Grow, Ground, Glide, and Glow – which will tell you if it's connection, mental enrichment, physical presence, relaxation, or self-care that you need to feel centred again. Get exactly what you need at the festival, which comes alive with activities designed around these pillars to help you find your balance. Journal mindfully with mindful art and positive journaling coach Steph T, flow through silent disco yoga with The Hush Retreats founder Mandi Cheung, or try your hand at leather crafting with Hides & Thread. Need something more social? Gather with friends over free-flow coconut water and all-day DJ beats, or glide into the chillout zone with oversized board games and old-school fun.  Admission is free, but workshop slots are limited – so sign up early, take the Digital BMI Quiz, and get ready to reconnect with what really matters. Show us your quiz results to redeem a free

POP Mart's iconic Mega Space Molly character is getting her time to shine at ION Art Gallery. Mega Space Molly: Hello, Moon exhibition is a whimsical look into the adorable toy's world of exploration and imagination – and an opportunity for die-hard fans to cop some event-exclusive merch too. Some standouts: a 1000% Hello, Moon figurine complete with a glowing moon orb, and a ball-jointed Molly Hello, Moon 1/8 Action Figure wrapped in a furry spacesuit. There are also lifestyle items like lamps, rugs and multi-functional lanyards, all available for pre-order. Don't forget to check out the Space Molly wall art and archival pieces, featuring beloved series like Smitten Love, Jon Burgerman, and Pantone. Of course, buy a blind box home and keep your fingers crossed for a secret figurine. Besides the blind boxes, look forward to a Singapore-exclusive: a Vanda Miss Joaquim-themed Mega Space Molly doll in honour of our national flower. This goes on sale on July 30 at ION Art Gallery. There's also a special anniversary collection dropping on August 1 at ION Art Gallery called the Mega Space Molly 100% Anniversary Series 4 – take a sneak peek here.  See the Hello, Moon exhibition in other parts of Asia  The MEGA SPACE MOLLY: Hello, Moon Exhibition is free and open to walk-ins at ION Art Gallery on Level 4 of ION Orchard. It runs from July 30 until August 24, from 10am to 9pm daily. This same exhibition will also be running in other parts of Asia – here are the dates and locations

Perhaps the cosiest event happening this weekend is A "House Warming" at Chin Swee Neighbourhood Club. Run by the folks at Common Man Coffee Roasters, the weekend pop-up market returns in its third iteration in collaboration with Of Wonder Wander. The space is styled like a home, complete with a living room and kitchen, and filled with brands and activities that invite you to slow down. Craft a sling bag from repurposed fabrics with beckynrosie, or settle into the community living room with Stranger Conversations for some heartfelt sharing. There'll be delicious bites to fill you up as you go: think old-school buns from Eat My Curry Bun and handcrafted pizzas from Pizza Keenway. Roots, a Bangkok-based café, has also made it all the way down to share their crowd-favourite brews, such as Orange Tonic Cold Brew and Cacao Nibs Cold Brew. If this housewarming inspires you to spruce up your own home, then you're in luck – you can shop tastefully picked, secondhand vintage by objects.re or gorgeous flower arrangements by FIBRE.  A "House Warming" at Chin Swee Neighbourhood Club is taking place at CMCR Barista Academy on August 2 and 3, from 10am to 6pm. Entry is free. 

Bali has always had two distinct draws: the sun-drenched coasts with its buzzing beach clubs and the enchanting forests and rice paddies in its interior. If you’re a diehard beach bum, Anantara Ubud Bali Resort will convince you to spare a few days up north. This five-star resort in a quieter neighbourhood of Ubud is the definition of tranquillity, transporting guests back to “Bali as it was 40 years ago”, as a world-weary traveller might say with no little amount of nostalgia. Anantara Ubud cascades down a hillside facing the lush Payangan rainforest in a design that will remind you of the terraced rice fields that Ubud is so famous for. It all originates from the impressive main building, its massive columns holding up the lobby and four dining venues. Every feature of the place calls attention to the outdoors – slatted folding doors in the lobby frame green, waving fronds; floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the excellent signature restaurant Amerta; and alfresco bar Sulang Lounge leads out to one of the hotel’s two heated pools, which itself seems to hang suspended over the treetops. On a clear day, you can even see the conical peaks of Mount Agung and Mount Batur from the afternoon tea spot, Lobby Lounge.  The suites are carved stepwise into the hillside, accessible by an inclined elevator. Connected by an intricate network of stairs are the private villas – ours a one-bedroom abode with a private pool. The villa is spacious yet charmingly cosy: a neutral palette of bei

No need for a scuba diving license to enjoy the treasures of the sea at Koral Restaurants. It’s Bali’s first aquarium restaurant, tucked away in the luxurious Apurve Kempinski Bali. Request for a table under the arched plexiglass of the aquarium to make the most of the unusual setting. It gives you front-row seats to the dance of colourful marine life while you tuck into artistic multi-course menus with Indonesian-inspired dishes like wagyu beef with Maranggi sauce and silken tofu with Kintamani tangerine. 

Bouldering – it's like rock climbing, but scarier since you're scaling the wall sans rope. But the sport has found quite the following in Singapore because it's a true challenge for both the mind and body. Strength, technique, and strategy are a must to excel. It's also just a great bonding activity to have with friends and other enthusiasts.  Lovers of the sport now have a playground at Project Send, a swanky facility that's housed on the second floor of Esplanade Mall. Founded by climbers Kenneth Ng and Sarah Chua, Project Send stands out for its holistic approach to the sport – combining bouldering, strength training, and a dining concept at Beta Café.  Let's talk about the space. Project Send occupies over 5,200 square feet of space at The Esplanade Mall comprising more than 70 routes covering 12 climbing grades. The 14 bouldering walls overlook cityscape and riverfront views for times you need a breather from – quite literally – staring at the wall. Bouldering nerds will also be happy to know that the walls themselves were designed by seasoned Swiss climber Patrick Andrey, who has taken into account the unique features of the space to create an enjoyable spatial flow.  Besides a world-class bouldering wall to climb, gym-goers can also look forward to a holistic set of classes. Expect strength training and mobility sessions to help you conquer that gnarly overhang while protecting your muscles and joints. It all depends on your climbing goals, which Project Send's coaches

There's a new bookstore in the heart of town, and it's a haven for lovers of Chinese culture, literature and art. Taking over the space in Wheelock Place where the Borders flagship used to be is the ZALL Bookstore. It stocks more than 30,000 Chinese literary works for adults and children across two storeys, and has a café and art gallery to boot. Enter on the first floor and be greeted by black and white calligraphic elements that immediately whisk you away to the Jiangnan Watertown. Here is where you'll find childrens' literature, as well as a spacious multi-functional reading and event space. Head to the café on this floor for some quiet reading time with a hot cuppa – they have a variety of coffee blends, Chinese Chu tea and Taiwan tea on the menu.  Adults will want to head up the spiral staircase to do some book hunting. Expect a comprehensive collection across literature, humanities, history and philosophy from China and Taiwan. If that's not enough culture for you, there's always the art gallery on the same floor. ZALL Bookstore will be featuring creative pieces from both local and international talent, as well as stationery collections you can shop from. 

Taiwan-born Draft Land Singapore turns one, and it's throwing an anniversary bash for the ages. From October 10 to 13, its inviting one and all down for a celebration featuring great food, lively music, and of course, its drafted cocktails.  You'll want to swing by on October 10 (4pm till late), when 20 cocktails-on-tap will be going for the absurdly good price of $10. Dance to a diverse selection of R&B, hip hop, top 40s, and disco tunes by DJ Chuin as you sip on cocktail favourites like oolong tea collins and yuzu whisky sour, alongside new concoctions like Red & Stormy and Pornstar bellini. Draft Land is known for its Sample Service – so do ask the friendly 'draft tenders' to recommend a few cocktails to try before you commit.  The next two nights are all about the music, with multiple DJs on rotation. DJ Val starts the party at 6pm on October 11 with house, R&B and party anthems; followed by DJ Dyna with an energetic hip hop set. DJ Zack C, a big name credited for driving Singapore's top LGBT clubs in the 2010s, takes over with DJ Chuin from 10pm to midnight. If you're in your Mandopop era, swing by on October 12 instead, where DJ Pin will be soundtracking the night with beloved Mandarin ballads and jazz-influenced tracks. Draft Land has a satisfying menu of Taiwanese delights to go with its tipples, but October 13 brings something a little different. Chooby Pizza is set to pop-up with its Naples-style pizza, characterised by naturally leavened, light and thin crust overl

UPDATE August 27, 2026: The punchline for Post Malone's April Fool's Day announcement is landing a little late, but it's confirmed – his Big Ass World Tour show in Singapore is postponed.  Speculation has been swirling since the concert's listing on Ticketmaster Singapore was marked as "Currently Unavailable". Today (August 27), the ticketing platform confirmed the news and assured that ticket holders will receive a full refund. If you have a ticket, you'll receive the refund via your original payment method but it may take up to 60 business days to be processed.  Post Malone was originally slated to perform on September 25 at the National Stadium. The rest of his shows across Asia and Australia will also be postponed, though an official reason hasn't been announced yet.  April 1, 2026: If your 2026 bingo card didn’t include a singalong to Post Malone’s Circles in a 50,000-seat stadium, consider this your plot twist: Post Malone is hauling his gloriously named Big Ass World Tour to Singapore this September, and he’s bringing Don Toliver along for the ride. The Singapore stop lands on September 25, 2026 at the National Stadium, and is part of a multi-city sweep that hits Hong Kong, Kaohsiung, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Seoul, and Tokyo. If you last saw him in Singapore, it was probably during the 2023 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix weekend. Since then, he’s only gone bigger. Diamond-certified smashes like Circles, Sunflower, rockstar, and Congratulations are just the

A larger-than-life Jurassic experience is stomping into town. Japan's live dinosaur spectacle Dino-A-Live is bringing its signature production, Dinosaur Odyssey, to Resorts World Sentosa from December 3 to 6 – its first large-scale indoor production outside of Japan. The show drew over 25,000 attendees during its Japan premiere and is expected to welcome over 30,000 guests during the Singapore season. Photograph: Dino-A-LiveDinosaur Odyssey by Dino-A-Live The approximately 70-minute experience places you up close to 15 hyper-realistic, life-sized dinosaurs. The line-up spans iconic species like Tyrannosaurus Rex, Brachiosaurus, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus, as well as lesser-known species like Ankylosaurus, Utahraptor, Allosaurus, Parasaurolophus, Suchomimus, and Dakotaraptor. These aren't static exhibits or 2D projections, either – they're all moving and roaming freely across the arena, within arm's reach of the crowd.  The dinosaurs appear so realistic because of Dino-A-Live's patented Dino-Techne mechanical suits. Developed by Japanese firm On-Art over more than 20 years, these suits recreate lifelike muscle movement and physical presence. The effect is enhanced by theatrical music, dance, projection visuals, and nature-inspired effects like wind, plants, flowers, and swimming fish. It'll feel like you've been transported back into prehistory rather than in a stage set.  Photograph: Dino-A-LiveDinosaur Odyssey by Dino-A-Live Beyond the main performance at Resorts World

Bookworms are in for a treat this October, because Singapore is getting its very first Indie Bookshop Day (SGIBD). It brings together 20 independent bookstores across the island for a three-day celebration of literature, community, and local reading culture. Taking place from October 2 to 4 (with the main festivities on Saturday, October 3), SGIBD features events happening directly within the participating bookshops – so that each has space and freedom to showcase its unique personality.  The 20 bookstores involved span genres and languages: there's the art and design institution Basheer Graphic Books, Korean bookstore Bommoi, children's bookstore Woods in the Books, Muslim bookshop Wardah Books, and Singlit publisher Epigram Books, among others.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Singapore Independent Bookshop Day (@sgibd26) Rather than just browsing their shelves, you can take part in interactive activities at each. Some highlights include a blind book swap at Epigram Books, a live sketching demo by author David Tsnen at Basheer Graphic Books, a PowerPoint party at Wormhole, and puppet shows at Eliko Picture Books & things. You can even browse President Tharman Shanmugaratnam's personal reading recommendations at Book Bar.  Even hopping between the venues comes with a fun twist: organisers are releasing an official SGIBD Passport that doubles as a directory and stamp rally. Collect customised stamps from at least 10 participating bookshops t

Between 1-Atipico and Parlour Gelato, dessert lovers have one more reason to visit New Bahru: Korean cult-favourite bakery brand Milkyshop is popping up at the lifestyle enclave from September 3, 2026 to January 2, 2027. Milkyshop first began in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, selling filled doughnuts and sweet pies out of an American diner-inspired shopfront. The brand went viral with its Butter Sand cookie series – helped by its striking red-and–blue retro aesthetics – and now has 10 shops across Korea. Its first overseas store in Hong Kong was a major success too –  selling out its 250-box allocation daily.  Now, it's Singapore's turn. For this pop-up, the bakery is launching four of its signature Butter Sand flavours from day one: crème brûlée, milk caramel, peanut butter ($34 for eight pieces) and matcha ($34 for seven pieces). Not to be confused with Japan's Press Butter Sand, Milkyshop's is a thinner and longer biscuit that nevertheless has a crunchier bite and stronger toasted caramel flavour. The centre is smooth and creamy – served chilled, it's almost ice cream-like.  Here's what you're getting with each flavour. The crème brûlée is the star, with a caramelised sugar coating that provides a crisp contrast to its creamy insides – just what you'd expect from the French dessert. The milk caramel butter sand is the most classic, featuring Milkyshop's exclusive milk caramel. If you're a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup lover, the peanut butter sand is a no-brainer, with dense peanut butt

Singapore’s biggest after-dark spectacle is back, turning the Bras Basah.Bugis precinct into an open-air playground for 16 straight nights. Running from August 21 to September 5, this year’s Singapore Night Festival revolves around the theme Myths and Legends, which translates to 97 separate programmes, massive facade takeovers, stilt-walking neon birdmen, and an excuse to roam our national museums way past bedtime. Best of all? Almost everything is entirely free. Here are the definite highlights of Singapore Night Festival, from opening-weekend exclusives to the ticketed experiences worth your coin. When is Singapore Night Festival 2026? The Singapore Night Festival runs from August 21 to September 5, 7.30pm to 11pm (extended till midnight on Fridays and Saturdays).  Where is the Singapore Night Festival 2026? It takes place at the Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct, spread across four main zones: the Museum Zone, Zone 1 (Funan to Chijmes), Zone 2 (Cathay Green to Waterloo Centre), and Zone 3 (around Bras Basah Complex and Stamford Arts Centre).  If you're taking public transport, the nearest MRTs are City Hall, Bras Basah, Bencoolen, Dhoby Ghaut, and Bugis.  Do I need tickets for the Singapore Night Festival? Experiences and programmes under the Singapore Night Festival are overwhelmingly free. There are ticketed experiences, ranging from $10 to $60.  The top 7 highlights to plan your night around  1. Tales of Earth and Sea at the National Museum of Singapore Photograph: Singapore

Singapore is on the verge of making the final at the ASEAN football championship, but the team has to clear its toughest hurdle yet: beating Thailand on their home turf at Rajamangala Stadium. The Singapore team lost 3-1 to the Thai team in the first leg of the semi-final match at Jalan Besar Stadium on August 15 – their first loss of the tournament – so whether we progress to the final depends on this second-leg fight. As Our Tampines Hub puts it on Facebook, "bring your voice, wear red."  When and where is the Singapore vs. Thailand match happening? The second leg of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup semi-final kicks off tonight (Tuesday, August 18, 2026) at 9pm SGT. The match is being played live at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. Where is the best place to watch with a big crowd in Singapore? Judging from the turnout for the first leg of the Thailand vs. Singapore semi-final match on August 15, Our Tampines Hub is set to be the ultimate fan hub tonight. The live screening will take place at Festive Plaza – just show up early to grab a good spot, and be sure to wear red and tote a mini Singapore flag to the party.  Kallang Wave Mall will also be hosting a live watch party. Situated beside National Stadium, the homeground of the Singapore national football team, it's a fitting location to show your support.  Are there any neighbourhood community screenings? Yes. For a family-friendly vibe that's close to home, several community centres such as Tampines West, Woodlands, Boon

If you've ever been frustrated at the lack of drinking options past midnight or 1am in Singapore, here's some good news – 4am liquor hours across Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Upper Circular Road are officially here to stay. The government has formalised its year-long revitalisation trial, cementing permanent 4am liquor permits and regular Circular Road street closures starting today (August 18).  The good news for partygoers is that the precinct's nightlife is set to grow even bigger. During the initial trial alone, authorities approved 37 new nightlife concepts along the Boat Quay Waterfront, Circular Road, Lorong Telok, and Canton Street, alongside 92 extended liquor licenses across the area. Bars and venues can continue to submit applications to extend liquor trading hours.  Government agencies also confirmed that law and order remained stable throughout the pilot thanks to stepped-up security patrols and cooperation from venues, which helped pave the way for measures to be locked in for the long term.  While extended drinking hours apply specifically to Thursday and Friday nights, road closures along Circular Road will resume on selected weekends and during events, forming a car-free enclave for pedestrian-friendly activities.  READ MORE The best things to do in Singapore this week (Aug 17-23) Lulu’s Lounge returns with a new 1930s Shanghai-inspired home in Chinatown Yoasobi becomes the first Japanese act to headline Singapore National Stadium  

Pop Mart has already taken your wallet via blind boxes, and now it wants your lunch money too. Pop Bakery – the brand's first dessert café concept in Southeast Asia – officially opened today at Resorts World Sentosa's Weave mall, occupying the entire upper floor of a two-storey standalone villa. Photograph: Pop MartPop Mart Store Downstairs is where you can check out (and checkout) Pop Mart blindboxes and character-themed merchandise, including local exclusives like the Pop Bean Twinkle Twinkle Journey in Singapore Set as well as a pendant and bag from the newly-launched Go Around with Pop Mart Series.  Go upstairs for the bakery, which offers a photogenic, character-inspired food menu co-developed with RWS's culinary team. Besides Pop Mart signature dishes, there are some Singapore exclusives worth knowing about, too. Photograph: Pop MartPucky Xiao Long Bao and Labubu Butter Cookies There's the Pucky Xiao Long Bao ($18, dine-in only), a soy milk panna cotta and ice cream styled to look like dim sum, with biscuit stick "chopsticks" and chocolate dipping sauce. The Twinkle Twinkle Coconut Mousses ($18) each come in chocolate coconut shells layered with pineapple-passionfruit boba or red bean.  If you're looking for a gift, the Labubu Butter Cookies ($32) are the obvious choice. These honeycomb-textured cookies come in butter, chocolate, and Singapore-special coconut flavours – all packed in a collectible tin that's too pretty to throw.  Photograph: Pop MartTwinkle Twinkle

As Singaporeans, we're on an endless quest for good food at the best value, and the holy grail for that is the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list. This year, 97 value-for-money establishments across the island were awarded in the 10th anniversary edition, welcoming 10 brand-new entries spanning century-old hawker stalls and prized family recipes.  The Bib Gourmand distinction recognises establishments that serve exceptional, high-quality food at wallet-friendly prices. So for price-conscious Singaporeans, this is the list to look at.  Among the 10 newcomers are long-standing heritage brands, including Tian Nan Xing Minced Meat Pork Noodle, a century-old bak chor mee stall now run by its third and fourth generations; Hup Kee Fried Oyster Omelette, which started as a street stall 50 years ago; and Seng Kee Black Chicken Herbal Soup, whose aromatic, double-boiled herbal soup has attracted a loyal following for 60 years.  New concepts and regional flavours also made the cut, such as King of Laksa, offering a smooth and lighter coconut broth with low-carb noodle options; Rajarani Thosai, with its freshly-made thosai with nearly 20 filling choices; and Hunan restaurant Xiangyee, which imports mountain-grown ingredients and smoked cured meats directly from its home province.  The 10 new Michelin Bib Gourmand 2026 additions are:  Boon Keng Road Fish Head Bee Hoon Hup Kee Fried Oyster Omelette Jia Xiang King of Laksa Rajarani Thosai Seng Kee Black Chicken Herbal Soup Tian Nan Xing Mi

Star light, star bright – another meteor shower is now visible in Singapore skies. The Delta Aquariid meteor shower is now active, but set to peak this week on July 29 and 30. Granted that the skies are clear and the moon is not too bright, you may have a chance of seeing the glowing trains of the meteors in local skies. Here's when and how to catch the celestial show in Singapore. What is the Delta Aquariid meteor shower? The Delta Aquariid is a meteor shower that originates from Comet 96P/Machholz, which orbits the Sun about once every five years. The meteor shower appears to radiate from the constellation Aquarius, hence the 'Aquariid' in its name.  The Delta Aquariid is not known for having high meteor counts, but its meteors flash by steadily at a rate of two to five per hour. According to EarthSky, 5 to 10 percent of Delta Aquariid meteors leave persistent trains, which are glowing ionised gas trails which linger a second or two after the meteor has passed. When will the Delta Aquariid meteor shower be visible in Singapore?  Technically, you can step out any time between now and mid-August to catch a glimpse of the Delta Aquariids. However, the meteor shower peaks on July 29 and 30, between 2 am and 5:30 am –  your best chance of catching the celestial show.  Can I see the Delta Aquariid meteor shower in Singapore with my naked eye? Yes, you can! Cross your fingers and hope for clear skies as that's when you'll get the best view of the meteor shower, no special equi

Get one step closer to shophouse living at the new lyf Chinatown Singapore. The Ascott Limited's fifth co-living property soft-launched on July 3, spanning a row of beautifully conserved heritage shophouses and a newly-built modern wing. If your idea of a good stay involves plenty of heritage touches and community programming, then this is one worth considering.  lyf Chinatown has a clean shophouse facade, but the insides tell a different story. Walk around the property and you'll find familiar icons like lanterns, koi fish, fortune cats, and satay boys painted on every corner. One recurring motif is the Queen's Crepe Myrtle, a flower native to South India's Coromandel Coast, which pays tribute to the Chulia traders who crossed the seas to settle in Singapore. Colourful murals brighten the rooms and public spaces – a standout being the giant mural of flowers and cultural icons wrapping around four walls at the outdoor courtyard.  Photograph: lyf ChinatownOutdoor courtyard As you'd expect from lyf, the rooms are highly compact but cleverly packed with all you need for a comfortable long-term stay, such as a smart TV, working desk, and high-speed Wi-Fi. If you're after a true shophouse vibe, the rooms that come closest are the Level Up, Level Up Plus, and One of A Kind Plus rooms. These split-level accommodations come with a spiral staircase connecting the living areas. At 45 square metres, the One of a Kind Plus rooms are the most spacious, with the bed, kitchenette, and was

Singapore has no shortage of gorgeous hiking trails and secret and hidden parks for times you need a breather. But for an even deeper engagement with nature, there's a new nature immersion trail that could do wonders for your mental health.  The National Parks Board (NParks) launched the Nature Immersion Trail at Saraca Stream in Singapore Botanic Gardens on June 11. It's the first trail in Asia to be formally certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), a US-based organisation that has recognised 27 other forest trails around the world.  Just 150 metres long, the Saraca Stream trail offers a gentle, paved stroll under a lush canopy. It's basically a self-guided forest bathing experience, a Japanese practice of therapeutic relaxation that involves mindfully engaging all your senses while in nature.  Photograph: NParksSaraca Stream Nature Immersion Trail What makes a trail "certified" for nature immersion? A trail can be certified for nature immersion when it meets six ANFT criteria, such as the presence of biodiversity, availability of natural features, and accessibility. These criteria ensure that the trails are relaxing, restorative experiences that can be enjoyed by all.  There are both guided and self-guided certified trails – the Saraca Stream trail is self-guided, with signboards, resting stations and quiet zones to guide visitors independently through the experience.   How is it different from a normal walk in Singapore Botanic Gardens? Most trai