January might nearly be over, but there’s still plenty happening in town. If you’re scratching your head over what to do this weekend or where to go, fret not. We’ve scoured the island for the most exciting events this weekend, from free family carnivals to epic concerts and cool cultural exhibitions. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this weekend to make the most of it!
Limited time only: Things to do in Singapore this weekend!
1. HSBC SVNS Singapore 2026 – Family Rugby Carnival
31 January – 1 February 2026
Admission fee: From ~$69 for youth, $99 for adults (tickets cover both days)
Address: National Stadium (Singapore Sports Hub), 1 Stadium Drive, S(397629)
Event hours:
- Matches from 10.20am (31 Jan) and 12pm (1 Feb)
- Gates open 9.30am (31 Jan) and 11am (1 Feb)
2. Chinatown Chinese New Year Light-Up & Festivities
From 30 January 2026
Chinatown is galloping full speed into the Year of the Horse, and you’re invited along for the ride. This weekend marks the opening ceremony of the annual Chinese New Year celebrations – on Friday 30 Jan, watch Kreta Ayer Square come alive with lion dances, multicultural performances and the official street light-up launch. The theme “Galloping into the Prosperous Year” sees the precinct decked out in dazzling lantern-lined streets, giant orchid displays and flowing red drapes. The star of the show is an 8.8-metre golden horse installation rearing proudly to herald good fortune. After the opening night fanfare, enjoy the festive fairyland atmosphere all weekend: stroll along Eu Tong Sen Street and New Bridge Road as they glitter after dusk. Don’t forget to soak in the buzzing vibes of the night market and snap plenty of pics with the beautiful zodiac lanterns!
Admission fee: Free
Address: Kreta Ayer Square (main stage) and surrounding Chinatown streets
Event hours: 7pm – 12am
3. Smith Street Festive Market & Street Performances
Till February 2026
Follow the delicious aroma of bak kwa and pineapple tarts to Chinatown’s newly revamped Smith Street, which is hosting a Chinese New Year Festive Market every weekend leading up to the Lunar New Year. After a long makeover, Smith Street is back in action and bursting with life. Shop for traditional decorations, handcrafted calligraphy, and yummy snacks from stalls overflowing with CNY goodies. Keep an eye out for lively street performances – you might catch a lion dance lesson in action or an impromptu music show. Kids can try their hand at calligraphy workshops or get dressed up in rentable Peranakan costumes for adorable photos. Oh, and if you’re lucky, the God of Fortune himself may wander by to bless you with chocolate coins and good cheer! When hunger strikes, pop into Chinatown Food Street for dim sum and sugar cane juice, or snag exclusive CNY-themed treats (Starbucks merch, anyone?). It’s a street party brimming with festive feels.
Admission fee: Free entry
Address: Smith Street, Chinatown, S(058951)
Event hours: 6pm – 10.30pm
4. Palette Japan Festival
31 January – 1 February 2026
Get a taste of Japan’s rich artisanal culture at Palette Japan Festival, a brand-new fair highlighting traditional and contemporary Japanese crafts. Held at the National Design Centre, this two-day fest offers immersive workshops led by master artisans – from learning delicate sashiko stitching to crafting your own mini zōri slippers. Each hands-on session is limited to 10 pax, ensuring you get quality time to pick up centuries-old techniques directly from the experts. Beyond workshops, browse an exhibition of stunning Japanese handiwork and catch the launch of Tsumami Zaiku to the World, a book of essays and poems about the art of folding fabric flowers. Whether you’re a Japanophile or just love DIY, this festival promises an eye-opening look at the heart and soul behind Japanese craftsmanship – plus unique souvenirs you’ll make with your very own hands.
Admission fee: Free (workshops require pre-registration, materials may be charged)
Address: National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road, S(188969)
Event hours:
- Sat (31 Jan): 1pm – 9pm
- Sun (1 Feb): 10am – 5pm
5. Funfair of Forgotten Futures
Till 15 February 2026
Who says learning about climate can’t be fun? Funfair of Forgotten Futures is a month-long carnival with a conscience, turning environmental education into a playful adventure. Held at the cosy Temasek Shophouse, this exhibition-meets-funfair invites all ages to play classic carnival games – ring toss, cornhole, pinball – each reimagined with sustainable, upcycled materials highlighting a different eco-issue. Toss rings to understand the landfill crisis, or try a recycled spin-the-wheel that illustrates the impacts of mining. In between games, explore interactive installations and mini-workshops that gently prompt you to rethink our role in shaping a greener future. It’s lighthearted and hands-on, yet you’ll come away with food for thought about protecting our planet. In short: small moments of fun sparking big conversations – definitely one of the most meaningful events this weekend.
Admission fee: Free
Address: Temasek Shophouse, 28 Orchard Road, S(238832)
Event hours: Daily, 10am – 7.30pm
6. Gather at Gillman – Art Jam at Gillman Barracks
Till 31 January 2026
Art lovers, rejoice – Gillman Barracks has turned into a buzzing creative playground this month. Gather at Gillman is a free art festival sprawling across the leafy barracks, with galleries opening new showcases and installations at every corner. Explore contemporary artworks at renowned galleries (Mizuma, FOST, Ota Fine Arts and more) and catch special artist-led tours and talks as part of Singapore Art Week’s tail-end programmes. There are also fun public activities: think family-friendly photography workshops, live music performances, and even a quirky outdoor artwork created via power-washing (yes, really!). After feeding your soul with art, feed your tummy at Gillman’s hip cafes and bars – many are offering discounts for festival-goers. From day to night, Gillman Barracks is the place to soak in Singapore’s art scene in a laid-back, open-air setting.
Admission fee: Free entry (charges for certain workshops may apply)
Address: Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Road, #01-25, S(109444)
Event hours: 11am – 11pm (galleries and event times vary; check schedule for guided tour slots)
7. Whole Snail Farm – Meet Singapore’s New Snail Friends
From 30 January 2026 onwards
Slow down (literally) with a visit to Singapore’s first snail farm, newly opened for weekend tours. Tucked away in an industrial building, Whole Snail offers a quirky, hands-on encounter with these slimy little critters. By appointment only, families and curious visitors can feed and hold the snails, learn about their surprising superpowers (did you know snail mucus is used in skincare?), and tour the farm’s breeding habitats. The friendly hosts customise each tour to keep things fun and engaging – perfect for a relaxed day out with kids who love weird and wonderful animals. You can even opt for a craft session to paint your own snail shell souvenir! It’s a delightfully offbeat way to spend a weekend morning, and you’ll definitely leave with newfound appreciation for these tiny eco-warriors (snails are great composters!). Just remember to book ahead online, as walk-ins aren’t allowed. Ready to embrace the slow life?
Admission fee: From $25 per person (guided tour)
Address: Food Concept @ Pandan, 239 Pandan Loop, #09-02, S(128425)
Opening hours: Tours on weekends only, between 10am – 4pm (by prior appointment)
8. Gelato Messina x Janice Wong – The Scoop Collaboration
26 January – 8 February 2026
We’ve got the scoop (literally) on a limited-edition dessert collab that will thrill your taste buds. Local pastry queen Janice Wong has teamed up with cult-favourite Aussie ice creamery Gelato Messina to launch The Scoop, a series that reimagines chefs’ signature creations as gelato. For its debut, Janice serves up two inventive treats available for just two weeks. First up: “You’re Not You When You’re Gelato’d” – a decadent Snickers-inspired gelato with peanut butter ice cream, salted roasted peanuts, caramel and chocolate fudge swirls. It’s basically a Snickers bar in creamy scoop form (sweet tooths, rejoice!). The second is a box of artisanal bonbons ($15) featuring local flavours like Kopi Gao and Macadamia Crunch – these are so popular they’re also selling them at Janice Wong’s Paragon outlet in limited quantities. Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or just looking to cool off in the tropical heat, swing by Messina for this collab. But hurry – once it’s gone, it’s gone, and future collabs are under wraps. No messinaround – get licking!
Admission fee: Pay per item (approx. $8 per gelato scoop, $15 per bonbon box)
Address: Gelato Messina Singapore, 1 Club Street, S(069400)
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu, Sun: 12pm – 10.30pm
Fri – Sat: 12pm – 11.30pm
9. Light to Night 2026 (Art Festival)
9 – 31 January 2026
Singapore’s annual light art festival returns for its 10th edition, bigger and brighter than ever. Held across the Civic District, Light to Night 2026 is themed “The Power in Us, celebrating how art brings people together. By night, watch historic building facades (like the National Gallery) come alive with stunning light projection displays. Wander through Art X Social Festival Village for street food and live music by local artistes such as Iman Fandi and Charlie Lim. From interactive installations to roving performances and even a paper lantern “Gathering on the Lawn, this festival promises countless “lit” moments for your Instagram and a magical night out in the city.
Admission fee: Free (with some ticketed activities)
Address: Various locations in the Civic District (around the Padang/National Gallery)
Opening hours: ~5pm till late (light installations illuminate in the evenings; check programme schedule)
10. Neural Echoes: Enter The Sleep Lab (Immersive Escape Room)
9 January – 7 February 2026
If you love Black Mirror-style sci-fi thrills and escape room challenges, Neural Echoes: Enter The Sleep Lab will be right up your alley. In this interactive 50-minute experience, you and your friends are “test subjects” investigating a futuristic sleep tech company, SomniTech, where participants have mysteriously never woken up. Navigate cryptic clues and solve high-tech puzzles to uncover what happened to the missing scientist and escape the lab before you’re trapped in eternal slumber. With its eerie storyline and brain-teasing challenges, this adventure will definitely get your heart racing. (Bonus: It’s SG Culture Pass eligible, so you might snag a free booking if you have credits!)
Admission fee: From $32 per person
Address: Council Room, The Arts House (Old Parliament), 1 Old Parliament Lane, S(179429)
Opening hours: 5pm – 9pm
11. Pokémon Day-to-Night Adventure Presented by Singapore Cable Car
22 November 2025 – 30 April 2026
All aboard the Pokémon Day-to-Night Adventure Presented by Singapore Cable Car! The Singapore Cable Car has been decked out in five different Pokémon themes for the holiday season, turning your ride between Mount Faber and Sentosa into a sky-high Poké-journey. By day, hop into cabins adorned with fan favourites like Pikachu, Eevee and Charmander – each ticket even comes with a complimentary Pikachu sun visor, so you can look the part while gazing at the views. After dark (from 7:45pm onwards), the adventure gets even cooler: you’ll receive a special UV flashlight when boarding, which reveals hidden glow-in-the-dark Pokémon patterns on the cabin walls and ceiling! It’s like a mini scavenger hunt in the sky. Back on solid ground, make sure to snap photos with the Pokémon decor at Mount Faber Station – life-size standees and a Pokéball backdrop await. And of course, there’s exclusive merch to collect: glow-in-the-dark Pokémon T-shirts, trading cards, and DIY keychain kits at the gift shop (great for Christmas gifts for the Poké-obsessed).
Admission fee: $33 (Adult), $22 (Child)
Address: Mount Faber Peak, 109 Mount Faber Road, S(099203)
Event hours: 8.45am – 9.30pm
More weekend fun in Singapore: Concerts, shows & exhibitions
12. Once Upon a Time – Chinese New Year Musical by The TENG Ensemble
31 January – 1 February 2026
Start your weekend on a mythical note with a festive musical adventure by The TENG Ensemble that reimagines the Chinese legend of Nian – the sharp-toothed monster who once terrorised villagers on Lunar New Year’s Eve. In this charming hour-long performance, follow lovable Grandpa Ah Gong and granddaughter Sharon as they face off against Nian using lively storytelling and interactive music. Spoiler: loud tunes, bright colours and community spirit come together to show how the first New Year celebrations scared the beast away! It’s a family-friendly show with youth musicians joining the pros on stage, so expect kids in the crowd to be utterly spellbound. Bonus: tickets are Culture Pass-eligible (score!).
Admission fee: $5 – $18
Address: VivoCity Mall, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Level 3 outdoor amphitheatre, S(098585)
Event hours: 10.30am – 11.30am
13. Disney “Gallop to Spring” at Sentosa Sensoryscape
30 January – 3 March 2026
Sentosa is combining Disney magic with Chinese mythology for a one-of-a-kind Gallop into Spring experience at its new Sensoryscape attraction. By day, wander through Sensoryscape’s lush gardens to discover chapters of the legend of King Mu (an ancient Chinese tale) brought to life with Disney flair. Each zone along this immersive trail reveals a new scene with vibrant light and sound installations, plus familiar Disney characters peeking out alongside the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. By night (7.30pm onward), the experience levels up – the gardens glow with lanterns and interactive displays that respond as you engage with them, creating a mythical night walk under the stars. Don’t forget to stop by special photo spots for exclusive keepsakes (we hear you can get a personalised Disney zodiac name plate!). This free outdoor extravaganza is perfect for families – little ones will be wide-eyed at the lights and music, and grandparents will appreciate the weaving of tradition with modern magic.
Admission fee: Free
Address: Sensoryscape @ Sentosa (enter via Imbiah Station), 3 Siloso Road, S(098977)
Opening hours: 24 hours
14. KidsFest 2026: The Gruffalo’s Child
31 January – 1 February 2026
Treat the little ones to a theatrical adventure with The Gruffalo’s Child, as the beloved picture book by Julia Donaldson comes alive on stage. In this charming musical, brave little Gruffalo’s daughter ignores her dad’s warnings and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood, determined to find the Big Bad Mouse. Along the way, she encounters wheedling foxes, owls and snakes… but is the Big Bad Mouse just a figment of Gruffalo lore? The show is filled with catchy songs, laughs and plenty of audience interaction – perfect for kids as young as 3 (and parents, you’ll be humming along too). At just under an hour, it’s a great introduction to live theatre for young audiences, keeping them engaged without fidgeting. Rated G with gentle thrills and a heartwarming message about courage, this production will ignite your child’s imagination and leave the whole family grinning from ear to ear. Don’t be surprised if “gruffalo” becomes the new household buzzword!
Admission fee: $42 – $72 (per ticket, based on seat category)
Address: Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Place, S(179556)
Show times:
- Fri: 5pm
- Sat & Sun: 11am and 2pm
15. Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity Floral Display
Till 1 March 2026
Usher in spring with a floral extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome. The Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity display celebrates the Year of the Horse with a majestic herd of eight larger-than-life horse lanterns – each towering 2.6 metres tall amidst a sea of vibrant blooms. Stroll through picturesque gardens filled with auspicious flowers like peonies and plum blossoms, meticulously arranged in honour of Lunar New Year. The kiddos will love spotting all eight golden horses “galloping” through the flora, symbolising luck and success. On weekends, make sure to join the decoupage workshops where children (and adults!) can create their own floral canvas bag keepsake – a fun hands-on treat after admiring all the blossoms. It’s a delightful way to experience the beauty of springtime and snap some gorgeous photos. Pro tip: visit in the late afternoon for thinner crowds, then catch the sunset and the Garden Rhapsody light show after!
Admission fee: Flower Dome standard entry – from $12 (adult), $8 (child)
Address: Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, S(018953)
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 9pm
16. Demon Slayer: ‘Kimetsu no Yaiba’ Total Concentration Exhibition
24 January – 15 March 2026
Anime fans, this one’s worth clearing your weekend for. The Demon Slayer: ‘Kimetsu no Yaiba’ Total Concentration Exhibition is landing in Singapore for the first time, transforming a two-storey, 21,000 sq ft space into an immersive walkthrough of the series’ most iconic moments. Step into detailed recreations from fan-favourite arcs like the Final Selection, the eerie House of Demons and the Mugen Train, complete with atmospheric lighting, life-size displays and original illustrations shipped from Japan. There are plenty of photo-ready zones along the way, and the experience ends with a dedicated official merchandise store stocking exclusive collectables you won’t find anywhere else — perfect for taking a piece of the anime home.
Admission fee: From $22 per person
Address: Former Singapore Sports Hub Library, 4 Stadium Walk, S(397697)
Opening hours: 11am – 10 pm
17. Next Idol: Your K-POP Moment
23 January – 31 March 2026
If you’ve ever secretly practised choreography in front of your mirror or wondered what it really feels like to have screaming fans, this exhibition lets you live out your K-POP fantasy in real life. Next Idol: Your K-POP Moment drops you into a futuristic, AI-powered universe where you become the star of your own debut. This hour-long experiential exhibit transports you to 2050, where you’ll learn what it takes to be an idol and restore the K-POP world. You’ll design your own album cover and watch generative AI finish it in real time, receive a customised “fandom fortune” that cheers you on just like a superfan would, and even see a hyper-real AI version of yourself clad in idol-level outfits and stage visuals. As you move through themed zones, your rhythm and energy shape massive 360° projections, and you’ll groove along to interactive choreography with K-POP tracks and light sticks at your side.
Admission fee: From $28 per person
Address: Groundseesaw Singapore, Parkview Square 3rd Floor, 600 North Bridge Road, S(188778)
Opening hours: 10am – 7pm
18. Trace Lion Dance Heritage at Tradition in Motion Exhibition
Now till 30 April 2026
We’re not lion – this exhibition is a roaring good time. “Tradition in Motion: Singapore’s Lion Dance Heritage” at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) is a vibrant showcase exploring the history and evolution of lion dance in Singapore. You’ll see over 50 artefacts on display – from rare antique lion heads (ever seen a Qing-era Fujian Green Lion?) to vintage photographs, costumes and trophies from local lion dance troupes. Learn about different lion dance styles practiced by Singapore’s various Chinese dialect groups and how this centuries-old art has adapted to modern times. With colourful exhibits and even a partially-built lion head on show (highlighting the craft of our last local lion head maker), it’s an eye-opening dive into a beloved cultural tradition.
Admission fee: Free
Address: SCCC Concourse, 1 Straits Boulevard, S(018906)
Opening hours: 9 am – 10 pm
19. Skullpanda Cage: Uncage Showcase
12 December 2025 – 22 February 2026
Fans of Pop Mart collectables, this one’s for you. The Skullpanda Cage-Uncage Showcase is an immersive exhibition that lets you step into the surreal world of Skullpanda, one of Pop Mart’s most iconic characters. Making its international debut in Singapore, the showcase takes over multiple galleries in the National Museum with six themed, interactive zones designed to delight both hardcore collectors and casual visitors. Explore rooms that bring Skullpanda’s story to life, complete with exclusive Singapore-only installations. After you’ve snapped photos with the art, head to the pop-up merch store where limited-edition Skullpanda goodies await – but note, only ticket holders can shop!
Admission fee: $14 – $36
Address: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, S(178897)
Event hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm
Want more ways to enjoy Singapore? Explore these activities for all ages.
20. Visit home cafes around your neighbourhood
Home cafes are all the rage these days, and why not spend the weekend cafe-hopping around your neighbourhood? While the charm of a quiet nook with artisanal coffee and a cosy aesthetic can be irresistible, discovering these hidden gems nearby can turn a simple weekend into a mini adventure. We personally have been to some of the best home cafes, each with its own unique vibe — some even have pets lounging around, adding to the warm, lived-in charm. So grab your favourite book or a friend, and let your weekend plans brew close to home.
21. Cross the border for a day of fun at JB
Make the most of the long weekend by crossing the border for a fun day (or overnight) trip to Johor Bahru! Spend your day exploring the vibrant shopping malls, indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine, or discovering exciting attractions across the Causeway. If you’re feeling adventurous, extend your stay and enjoy a relaxing night in one of JB’s cosy hotels. With so many activities across the Causeway, you’re in for a refreshing break that’s just a short bus ride away!
Related: Embark On A Road Trip Around Malaysia
22. Play Pickleball with your friends
If heading to JB feels like too much of a hassle, why not stay local and book a court to play pickleball? This sport, which has been trending for the past few months, is suitable for all ages and gives you the perfect chance to be active while bonding with friends. You can easily squeeze in a fun, sporty two-hour session, and don’t worry about the rainy season — there are plenty of indoor courts available for you to book and enjoy a great game, rain or shine!
Related: Pickleball In Singapore: Where To Play And How To Win
No more dilemma when it comes to things to do in Singapore this weekend
From night festivals to exciting shows, there’s no shortage of fun things happening in Singapore this weekend. So go forth and make the most of it – try something new, soak in the local culture, and most importantly, have a blast! For late-night explorers, check out our guide to things to do at night in Singapore.
Prefer a cosy evening in? Dive into our binge-worthy list of the best Chinese dramas to watch at home. And for those with little ones, don’t miss our roundup of kids’ activities in Singapore to keep the young ones entertained. Happy weekend, and have fun out there!
