Traveling to Singapore soon? Here are some end-of-year events not to be missed

There’s plenty to do all year round in Singapore, but if you’ve picked to visit during this time of year, you’re in for a treat. Singapore’s calendar of events is packed to the brim with exciting activities for everyone of all ages—from the much-anticipated return of the Singapore Grand Prix to cultural festivals, exclusive art exhibitions, year-end Christmas celebrations, and Marina Bay Countdown with its spectacular fireworks display.

Here’s the ultimate year-end events guide around which to plan your Singapore trip.

When: 16 Sept–13 Nov 2022

The annual “Festival of Lights” celebrated by Hindus marks the triumph of good over evil. Join the crowd in Little India to admire the festive street light-up and browse through stalls selling everything from traditional snacks to floral garlands, clothes, and ornamental decorations. Don’t miss the silver chariot procession, held twice in the lead-up to Deepavali.

When: 16 Sept–30 Oct 2022

The 8th Singapore International Photography Festival, carrying the theme “Future Known as Unpredicted”, features experimental works that are at the intersection of art, science, technology, and design. Photography buffs have the chance to rub shoulders with artists and photographers from around the world in a series of masterclasses, workshops, talks, and exhibitions.

When: 17 Sept–24 Oct 2022

Art Encounters is not your usual art gallery exhibition. Instead, this traveling exhibition is housed in repurposed shipping containers found in unexpected spaces across the city. Meet local artist Ashley Yeo who will showcase her rarely seen drawings and sculptural objects. Kids can try their hand at decorative paper cutting and making their own candle holders.

When: 19 Sept–21 Oct 2022

Check out Barbie’s fantastic life in plastic at this immersive exhibition by Jian Yang, who has the largest Barbie doll collection (over 12,000 dolls!) in Asia. Look out for dolls wearing international labels such as Christian Dior, and music icons such as Elvis and superheroes such as Batman. Visitors can expect to see beautiful race-themed Barbies which is a timely display with the Singapore Grand Prix season. We guarantee an Insta-worthy spectacle.

When: 23 Sept-2 Oct 2022

Are you ready for a high-octane weekend? Cheer on your favorite F1 drivers as they go wheel-to-wheel around Singapore’s Marina Bay street circuit. Off-track, there’s a massive concert lineup with headliners such as Green Day, Suede, and Black Eyed Peas. Follow that up with an after-party at Ce La Vi or Marquee Singapore, the city’s hottest nightspots.

When: 30 Sep 2022 - 5 Nov 2022

Get spooked at the 10th edition of the Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Singapore. Join the hunt for the Pontianak (local female spirit), eradicate the world of zombies, and fight demented villains in a special laser tag challenge. These spine-chilling thrills are spread across three haunted houses and two sinister scare zones. Enter if you dare—don't say we didn't warn you.

When: 13–23 Oct 2022

Fall in love with dance in all its forms—from ballet and street dance to hip hop and Asia’s traditional dances. Catch powerful performances from around the world at this annual event. Or why not sign up for a dance class and learn some slick new moves?

When: 11 Oct–10 Nov 2022

Take your shopping up a notch with stunning, colorful gemstones by MADLY, a homegrown fine jewelry brand. Whether you’re after a bespoke engagement ring or a dazzling pair of sapphire earrings, there’s a wide array of event-exclusive items that will be available at the pop-up located at ION’s Marmalade Pantry.

When: 16 Oct 2022–19 Mar 2023

The 7th edition of the Singapore Biennale, a large-scale contemporary art exhibition, is named Natasha, serving as a prompt to artists, collaborators, and audiences to rediscover ways of seeing and relating to the world. Expect a lineup of over 50 local and international artists and collaborators presenting their works at various venues across the island.

When: 21–30 Oct 2022

Geared towards collectors of fine jewelry and accessories, UltraLuxe features a world-class curation of exclusive items from 90 internationally acclaimed independent jewelry designers, prestige watchmakers, and celebrated fashion designers. If you’re in the market for some of the finest luxe items, save this event on your itinerary.

When: 22–23 Oct 2022

Mandopop fans, here’s something for you. The One Love Asia Festival Singapore 2022 is a two-day music extravaganza featuring prominent artists such as Stefanie Sun, Tanya Chua, Namewee, WeiBird, Yoga Lin and more. Soak in the good vibes at the Bayfront Event Space.

When: 28–30 Oct 22

Singapore’s longest-running indie rock and alternative music festival is back at the Esplanade. Featuring the best of homegrown and regional bands, this three-day “music on the bay” festival is a free event suitable for all ages.

When: From 28 Oct 2022

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of Pandora, the fictional universe in James Cameron’s Avatar. From October, the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay will be transformed into five different zones with bioluminescent environments, mythical creatures, flora and the captivating culture of the Na’vi.

When: 13 Nov 2022-2 Jan 2023

Soak up the holiday spirit along Singapore’s longest shopping belt, Orchard Road. As Christmas rolls in, the annual light-up transforms Orchard Road into a festive wonderland, twinkling with endless fairy lights and buzzing with performances by buskers. Shoppers: look out for great deals for your Christmas stockings.

When: 5 Nov 2022-5 Feb 2023

Walk down memory lane with the whole family at the Doraemon Exhibition, its first global showcase outside of Japan. Browse a selection of contemporary artworks that reinterprets this iconic Japanese character from 50 years ago and admire the original drawings from legendary manga artist Fujiko F Fujio.

When: 4 Nov 2022-2 Jan 2023

This year, Jewel Changi Airport brings on the Christmas sparkle with an underwater-themed festive extravaganza. Look forward to the 52-feet high Prudential Christmas Tree, interactive aquatic displays and scenic lookouts at Jewel’s Canopy Park, and a mesmerizing Christmas Light & Sound show at the iconic HSBC Rain Vortex, designed by renowned water-feature designer, WET.

When: 18-27 Nov 2022

The first Indian arts festival with a multi-genre focus in Southeast Asia, Kalaa Utsavam features the creations and unique stories of local and international artists. Look out for world-renowned sitarist Anoushka Shankar, popular Malaysian hip hop collective #PU4LYF, and local stand-up comedian Rishi Budhrani. Kids will enjoy The Indigo Jackal, a story with music, dance, and puppetry.

When: 18-20 Nov 2022

Calling all Pokémon fans! Gear up for an exclusive Pikachu Weekend at Gardens by the Bay’s Pokémon GO Safari Zone. Here’s your chance to catch unique Pokémon (like the Maractus and Shiny Purrloin) that you may not encounter out in the wild. Look out for a Singapore-exclusive Pikachu, clad in a purple, orchid-themed shirt, that will pop up around the city.

When: 22 Nov-9 Dec 2022

This award-winning musical is back to kick off its global tour with a brand-new international production at the Sands Theatre. Join Maria and the von Trapp family in their journey of growth and hope amidst the horrors of World War II. Look out for Singapore’s young talents cast as the von Trapp children.

When: 22 Nov 2022-3 Jan 2023

Giant bouncy castles, craft activity zones, and other fun activities await our young visitors at this massive playground at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. There are play zones for toddlers and older kids so everyone can join in the fun. At the end of the day, bring home a memento from the gift shop. Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

When: 25-27 Nov 2022

A shopping event that brings together design-led brands from the region, Boutique Fairs attracts both locals and tourists. Make your way down to the F1 Pit Building for an exclusive shopping experience with your favorite designers or explore a series of seminars, workshops, artisan demonstrations, and food and drink tastings.

When: 25-27 Nov 2022

Anime and J-pop culture fans have been waiting for the return of the largest anime festival in Asia, C3 Anime Festival Asia. For the first time ever in Singapore, you’ll get the chance to meet and greet your favorite VTubers Anya Melfissa, Moona Hoshinova, Mori Calliope, and Gawr Gura. Don't miss the two concerts, Watame Night Fever!! and I LOVE ANISONG, which will feature Tsunomaki Watame, May'n, and other top artists.

When: 1-4 Dec 2022

See how Singapore’s cultural influences converge with art and pop culture. You can look forward to first-in-the-world collection releases, exciting brand collab series, exclusive merchandise, live talks, NFT series with well-known tattoo artists, and masterclasses with brand leaders. Look out for freebies and raffle draws of limited-edition bundles and drops.

When: 2-3 Dec 2022

Are you ready to party? Asia’s largest dusk-to-dawn dance music festival is back at the Siloso Beach in Sentosa. This year’s ZoukOut lineup includes big name headliners such as Armin van Buuren, Gryffin, Tiësto, and Zedd. Expect a full-fledged festival ground with a food village, experience booths, custom installations, and roving acts.

When: 10-11 Dec 2022

The ultimate celebration of the best of Western and Asian pop culture, Singapore Comic Con showcases toys, collectibles, comics, esports, cosplay and more. Make this a family outing and come dressed as your favorite superhero or video game character. Kids below 12 enter for free.

When: 2 Dec 2022-1 Jan 2023

Stroll through Gardens by the Bay in December where thousands of fairy lights and festive décor transform the landscape into an unmissable photo op. Carnival games and rides, a Christmas market, choral performances, and Santa’s Grotto all add to the holiday cheer at Christmas Wonderland.

When: 31 Dec 2022

Time your visit for the year-end festivities and ring in the New Year in a grand fashion at the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown. Singapore’s city centre comes alive with stunning light projections, epic performances, carnivals, and a spectacular fireworks display at the stroke of midnight. Celebratory vibes guaranteed.

When: 31 Dec 2022

Look forward to never-before-seen artisanal Japanese fireworks, Colour Gradation fireworks in Singapore’s national colors, and award-winning fireworks from a prestigious competition in Japan at this year's New Year showcase at Marina Bay. Be captivated by the synchronized 70-minute soundtrack, along with other experiential show elements.