We’ve all learnt about Singapore’s rich history in school during social studies lessons. But sometimes, social studies lessons can be a little bit… boring. Not at this festival, though, which makes learning about the history of Bugis and Bras Basah fun and engaging. Taking place from 18 to 26 August 2023, the Singapore Night Festival 2023 will showcase over 50 light-up experiences, programmes, artworks and more.
This year marks the 14th edition of the Singapore Night Festival and the theme for this year is Singapore, the Great Port City — which explains why it is set up along Bugis and Bras Basah especially since the area used to be a trading port. You can expect a robust line-up of attractions that will showcase the sight, sounds, stories, tastes and even smells of the past — how will this be achieved? Only one way to find out.
The festival takes your regular classroom lessons out into the real world, so instead of just hearing about Bugis in the past, now you’ll get the chance to explore it firsthand, and on roller skates. Strap on your skates and roll around Singapore during the roaring 60’s and 70’s — bonus points if you come dressed the part.
The festival’s feature programme, titled Time is a Black Circle, is housed at the National Museum of Singapore and will bring to life the lively disco scene with a psychedelic rotunda of warm blooming colours, an indoor roller skating rink and disco music that will sure to have you boogying and grooving to the beat. There will also be three festival villages which will include food and beverage booths —- there’s so much to explore, you’re definitely gonna need a nice spot to rest your legs and recharge.
The festival will light up the night skies with 12 luminous installations located along and around the Bugis Bras Basah area, including the vibrant A Stone’s Throw (Away), X O x (two kisses and a hug), Preserving Paradise, and Florescence. As someone who does not have any art skills whatsoever, I am utterly blown away by these talented artists.
While most of these activities so far require a lot of leg work, you can give your legs a break and unwind with some cool jazz music at Capitol Singapore’s Jazz’in @ Capitol Singapore – A Night in Asia. Taking the stage will be acts like The Jazz Djogets and Shanghai Jazz Club. I’m all ears and ready to be serenaded by the lovely voices.
In addition to these offerings, the festival will also present programmes like guided tours, film screenings and storytelling sessions. There is also a gamified experience where you can stand a chance to win a grand prize simply by checking into the 10 selected checkpoints along the entire festival footprint — what better time to clock in your daily steps quota than now?
Families with young children can also join in the fun as there will be a dedicated family zone located at Fort Canning Rise and the Children’s Museum Singapore. There will be specially curated interactive activities for the kiddos to enjoy including a special performance by Sweet Tooth. You can even bring your kids to explore the Children’s museum — night at the museum-style — and hang out with some interesting characters at After Dark.
But of course, you won’t be walking away empty-handed, especially if you’re a proud owner of a Samsung Galaxy device. You can also get your devices customised with limited-edition designs available only at the festival. Avid gamers will have a blast at the esports corner where you can challenge your friends (or strangers) to a friendly match.
If you’re looking for a unique learning journey after dark, you definitely have to check out the Singapore Night Festival 2023.
Are you ready to get your groove on? The night is young, so book your tickets here!
Singapore Night Festival
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???? Bras Basah-Bugis precinct
???? 7.30pm—12am
????️ 18 to 26 Aug 2023
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