Chloe Ng

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 

Butter Town started in 2022 as a home-based business run by two sisters before opening a hawker store at Holland Drive Market.  Since then, Butter Town has expanded to an outlet at CT Hub, a grab-and-go kiosk at Raffles Xchange, and Singapore’s first shio pan vending machines across three neighbourhoods (Woodleigh village hawker centre, Hillion mall, Our Tampines Hub). Butter Town Breakfast Club at Chinatown marks the brand’s first dine-in café – with an expanded food and drink menu. What’s new at Butter Town Breakfast Club This two-storey café in Chinatown features Butter Town’s largest shio pan menu yet.  The OG (and wildly popular) OG shio pan aside, there are sweet shio pan flavours such as milk cream, lemon meringue, matcha, Earl Grey, and durian cream, with savoury picks like mentaiko onion and garlic cream cheese. There are also local flavours such as kopi and kaya butter.  For a twist on the classic local breakfast, the kaya butter or azuki butter shio pan can be dipped in a soft-boiled egg set ($5.60).  The café also serves a nostalgic set meal featuring Nyonya chicken curry and its OG shio pan ($9.80).  To complete the meal, get specialty drinks by Crema Café. Signature drinks include the Crema Lioness ($8), inspired by the Melbourne Mont Blanc with orange zest and cream, and a peanut butter cloud latte ($9). 

The Pop Mart craze never ends. This time, DIMOO The Secret Theatre Club POP-up Store takes over Plaza Singapura’s Outdoor Plaza until 7 June 2026, marking the first regional pop-up for this DIMOO series.  The pop-up is designed as a fairytale storybook world centred on DIMOO, a shy yet adventurous boy. Even non-collectors will appreciate the pastel-hued installations and oversized character cut-outs – it’s highly Instagrammable The Secret Theatre Club Series features DIMOO in seven theatrical animal costumes: Timid Lion, Maze Bunny, Granny Wolf, Chubby Penguin, Softie Sheep, Cherry Hoglet and Ballet Bear. Fans can get their hands on the newest launches, which are DIMOO The Secret Theatre Series Vinyl Plush Pendant Blind Box ($29.90) and DIMOO The Secret Theatre Series Vinyl Plush Earphone Case Blind Box ($24.90). Each person is limited to one full case. Aside from this series, other fan-favourite DIMOO collectibles are also available at this pop-up. This includes the DIMOO Moments in Bloom series with figurines ($15.90), nightlights ($37.99), and many more.     

Super Nintendo World is coming to Singapore – and yes, it's as official as it gets. Universal Studios Singapore has confirmed the beloved Nintendo-themed land as part of the Greater Sentosa Master Plan, the government blueprint for Sentosa's next two decades.  What is Super Nintendo World? This immersive land brings the beloved video games from Nintendo to life like Super Mario and Donkey Kong. Currently, the land is located in three Universal Studio Parks worldwide – Universal Studios Japan (Osaka, Japan), Universal Studios Hollywood (California, USA) and Universal Epic Universe (Orlando, Florida, USA). Photograph: Photo Spirit/Shutterstock What can we expect from Singapore’s themed park? Based on the parks in Osaka and in America, here’s what we can look forward to for Singapore. If Singapore follows the same format as existing parks, you can expect to enter through the iconic green Warp Pipe before being greeted by Princess Peach’s Castle. You will also get to purchase power-up bands to punch glowing question mark boxes, collect digital coins while unlocking challenges within the land. There are two main attractions across Super Nintendo World. Yoshi’s Adventure takes riders on a Yoshi across Mushroom Kingdom while Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge offers an interactive AR kart racing experience. Super Nintendo World in Osaka and Orlando also have Donkey Kong Country land, featuring Mine-Cart Madness –  a thrilling roller coaster that recreates the cart jumps in the game. F

After sold-out shows in 23 cities across the United States, the American singer-songwriter will hold his It's Always Summer Somewhere tour in Singapore. The concert will take place on November 24, at The Star Theatre.  Khalid is the youngest artist to surpass 15 billion Spotify streams, since his debut single ‘Location’ in 2016. Over the decade, he has earned seven Grammy nominations and worked with the biggest stars like Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, Alicia Keys and Benny Blanco. The current tour is inspired by his latest album, After the Sun Goes Down, a 17-track set blending smooth R&B, electro-pop, and 80s-inspired synths – considered a refreshing change from his more soulful tracks. The setlist will include all his hit songs such as ‘Location’, ‘Young Dumb & Broke’, ‘Better’, ‘Talk’, ‘Love Lies’, ‘Eastside’ as well as his new releases. There will be three rounds of ticket sales for the Singapore show. Mastercard holders will get priority access at 10am on July 14 until 10am on 15 July. Find out here for more details. Live Nation members can purchase tickets from 12pm till 11:59pm on July 15 via www.livenation.sg. Fans can sign up for a free membership to access the presale. General sales will begin from 4pm on July 16 via www.ticketmaster.sg. READ MORE Over 7,000 orchids are now blooming at this year’s Indonesian-inspired Orchid Extravaganza Singapore Garden Festival 2026 returns with 8-metre floral rollercoaster and 7,000 orchids – here's what to expect Home-based snack bu

Indonesia is one of the most orchid-diverse countries in the world – and you can now view some of its most gorgeous native species at Gardens by the Bay. Photograph: Gardens by the Bay This year’s Orchid Extravaganza shines the spotlight on Indonesia’s rich botanical diversity and cultural heritage, bringing over 7,000 orchids and installations such as large-scale anyaman sculptures – made with the Indonesian technique of weaving plant materials. Photograph: Gardens by the Bay The highlights of the show are Indonesia’s beloved orchids, handpicked from at least 5,000 species native to the archipelago. These include the world’s largest orchid species, the Tiger orchid; one of Indonesia's three national flowers, the Moon orchid; and striking Antelope orchids, named for unique, curled petals resembling antelope horns. Photograph: Gardens by the Bay Aside from floral displays, explore nine larger-than-life anyaman sculptures woven by 27 Balinese artisans, like a Komodo Dragon, and the towering ceremonial Ondel-ondel puppets. There are also traditional models, from the saddle-shaped roofs of Batak communal houses to Indonesia’s shadow puppet, wayang kulit. During your visit, keep a lookout for QR codes to scan and enter a quiz – and you might just win a free Bali trip. Photograph: Gardens by the Bay If you are visiting before July 12, make your tickets worth with an additional orchid showcase. The Singapore Orchid Show at Flower Dome features 360 orchid entries from Southea

Fans of Lovely Runner or the latest Perfect Crown, here's your chance to meet the South Korean actor Byeon Woo-seok in person. The star will be bringing his The Secret Library Asia fan meeting to Singapore on September 18 at The Star Theatre – two years after his first fan meet here. Byeon Woo-seok was a fashion model before starting his acting career in 2016. He rose to fame in 2024 with his first leading role as Ryu Sun-jae, a former swimmer turned idol singer in the romance series Lovely Runner. His OST for the drama, ‘Sudden Shower’, was a huge hit and even charted on Billboard’s Global 200 Chart. Byeon Woo-seok continues to grow as one of South Korea’s biggest stars with his recent drama Perfect Crown, alongside singer-actress IU, which became one of MBC’s highest-rated Friday–Saturday dramas. Next up: he's currently filming Netflix Korea's live-action adaptation of Solo Levelling, taking on the lead role of Sung Jin-woo – one of the most anticipated K-drama castings of the year. Ticket prices range from $148 to $268, and every ticket comes with two Singapore-exclusive photocards. Beyond that, there are benefits worth competing for: a hi-bye session, a group photo, and signed polaroids or posters up for grabs depending on your luck. Registration for the Woo Che Tong 1st Membership (Global) presale is now open and running until July 2, 11.59pm via Weverse. The presale then takes place from 2pm to 11:59pm on July 9, followed by general ticket sales at 2pm, on July 10, both

Time to get your lightsticks ready as K-pop girl group Mamamoo is officially coming back to Singapore as a full team. The group will be performing at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on July 31 for one night. This tour is named after their latest special release, 4WARD – and it's not only the group’s first reunion in over three years but also their 12th anniversary. The members Solar, Moon Byul, Whee In, and Hwa Sa have only performed solo concerts in Singapore during the group’s unofficial hiatus, making this tour even more anticipated for their fan base (Moomoo).  Many third-generation K-Pop fans will be familiar with Mamamoo’s performances of top hits such as ‘You’re the Best’, ‘Egotistic’, ‘HIP’, ‘AYA’, and ‘ILLELLA’. The group is known for their strong vocals and stage presence, often labelled as “performance queens”, and winning Best Group at the Golden Disc Awards and Best Vocal Performance – Group at the Mnet Asian Music Awards. All this to say that you're guaranteed a good show.  Tour ticket prices range from $178 to $358 (excluding booking fees). Both VIP standing and seated tickets come with a soundcheck experience, a chance to win a send-off, a group photo, a signed poster, and a Polaroid. Photocards are included for all ticket holders.  There will be only one ticket sale, starting on June 23 at 2pm, via ticketmaster.sg. READ MORE Singapore Cruise Centre moves into an all-new terminal at Harbourfront this July Pink Dot 18 gets personal with a new walkable village for

After four years, The Mad Sailors are back in their original store along the bustling stretch of Haji Lane. Shifting from their previously diversified menu of British-Asian fusion mains, they are now narrowing it down to classic fish and chips. Opened by The Black Hole Group, the team behind popular concepts like Tipo Pasta Bar and Éla, this store’s old-fashioned marine-diner theme brings nostalgic charm to a street known for its quirky aesthetics. Photograph: The Mad Sailors/Facebook You can choose between the lean, flaky Halibut fish ($15.90) or the thick, buttery Cod fish ($18.90). Mad Sailors take great pride in their hand-cut fries, triple-fried for extra crispiness, and tartar sauce with a hint of anchovy. We recommend adding on their velvety curry sauce ($2.90) for a true British pairing.  Photograph: The Mad Sailors/Facebook To complement the mains, sides include thick-cut onion rings with a tangy Worcestershire mayo ($9.90) and a creamy, comforting bowl of clam chowder ($8.90) packed with clams, sweet leaks and potatoes. On top of that, don’t miss the unique sweet treats available. Fans of Harry Potter will be familiar with this non-alcoholic butter beer drink ($8.90) – a butter-scotch soda topped with caramel cold foam. If you are craving an indulgent dessert, do try the deep-fried banana Mars bars ($10.90), coated in banana batter and served with butterscotch chantilly cream. Find out more on their Instagram page and website. The Mad Sailors is open from Sunday

If you are looking for an excuse to go cafe hopping this weekend, Heytea just dropped a tea-hopping event in line with its King Jasmine Guava series. The drink features an aromatic jasmine tea, pink guava juice, and milk, finished off with a velvety cream top and lime zest. Highlighting the drink's signature floral notes, Heytea has launched an exciting range of desserts, savoury bakes, and a botanical hand cream in collaboration with seven popular brands - Dearborn, Tiong Bahru Bakery, Messina, Tofu G, Nesuto, Ceres, and Postcard. Here’s what you can look forward to on your tea hopping exploration: Photograph: Heytea Singapore/Instagram 1. Dearborn   The New Bahru breakfast café serves up a King Jasmine Honey toast with whipped brie. The dessert features King Jasmine ice cream, warm espuma, a refreshing guava granita, compressed pink guava, and oat shortbread.  Photograph: Heytea Singapore/Instagram 2. Tiong Bahru Bakery The popular bakery chain offers a King Jasmine Guava tart, pairing jasmine chantilly with a tangy guava confit. 3. Messina  The Australian gelato chain introduces a new King Jasmine Guava bloom flavour with King Jasmine tea, guava juice, and Messina cream. Photograph: Heytea Singapore/Instagram 4. Tofu G At Tofu G, the King Jasmine Guava flavour is blended into the gelato chain’s signature Korean-style tofu base. Photograph: Tofu G/Instagram 5. Ceres The hidden cafe, known for its moon decor, adds two menu items: King Jasmine parfait with yoghurt, po

Onigiri are often a grab-and-go snack at convenience stores, but eating a warm rice ball in a restaurant setting is almost unheard of in Singapore.  Onigiri Gon, a new onigiri specialty store, has recently opened at Fortune Centre — the unassuming mall known for vegetarian eateries, affordable food spots like Yat Ka Kan Dessert and Japanese izakayas like Ume San 100.   Photograph: Onigiri Gon via Google Maps   It’s run by Fukuoka-born Chef Takamasa Suzuki, a former operations director under the Shunsui Group, where he oversaw concepts like the seven-time-Michelin Guide restaurant Shunsui, Kyuu by Shunsui (now permanently closed), and Sakedokoro Eizaburo, an izakaya on level three of Fortune Centre. He opened Onigiri Gon after noticing the lack of a dine-in option for enjoying freshly-made onigiri.  The store caters to around 12 diners each time. Diners get a front-row counter seat to watch Takamasa handcraft each onigiri –  together with the minimal Japanese interior, Onigiri Gon offers an intimate, izakaya-style atmosphere.  Although the space is small, the menu is rather extensive – with more than 20 different toppings at various price tiers.    Photograph: Onigiri Gon via Google Maps   Starting at $4.90, toppings include ume and konbu. The $5.90 tier offers a wide variety of proteins, such as sake (salmon flakes) and spicy tori kara (spicy chicken karaage). It’s followed by the $6.90 tier with more unique fillings such as hotate wasabi (soy wasabi-marinated sashimi sca