10 free events over the festive period

New Year’s Eve Countdown (Dec 31)

One of the nation’s favorite things to do for free is watch fireworks. Attending the Marina Bay countdown is free, as long as you don’t buy any snacks or drinks from the many stalls here (it’ll be hard). 

Cad Cafe Countdown & NYE at Artistry (Dec 31, 8pm)

On the other hand, if fireworks are optional, there are a few more New Year’s Eve options for you. Here are two of our favorite Arab Street hangouts that are hosting countdown parties without any cover charge. You might want to buy at least a drink, though.

Free Outdoor Yoga Class @ R-Evolution (Jan 2, 6:30pm)

Cool gym R-Evolution kicks off the new year wholesomely with a free sunset yoga sesh on the rooftop of VivoCity, with In Each Hand A Cutlass’ Amanda Ling DJing.

Yoga Inc. First Anniversary (Jan 2)

Also getting in on the yoga action is boutique yoga studio Yoga Inc., which celebrates its first birthday by offering free classes all day(!) and a free buffet dinner at 7pm.

DJ Vadim (Jan 3, 9:30pm)

Only a couple of tickets left for this free hip hop, dancehall and reggae gig by cult Russian producer and DJ Vadim at Gem Bar. Hurry up and book it already!

The Way North By 92steel&guts (Jan 4, 4:30pm)

Something a little classy for the new year, Violinist Tang Tee Tong and pianist Wong Yun Qi will play Norwegian folk songs followed by selections from composers Edvard Grieg and Ottorino Respighi at their debut performance. 

Speakeasy #17 (Jan 4, 6:30pm)

Local migrant workers from the Banglar Kontho Literary Association will be headlining the 17th edition of this poetry/spoken word slam. Poems are recited in Bengali and Tamil, while local poets like Cyril Wong, Marc Nair and Tania de Rozario will be on hand to translate them. A priceless chance to hear poetry by (often voiceless) migrant workers. 

Tokyo Cinderella Dolls (Jan 7)

Japanese photographer Karin Shikata’s first Southeast Asian exhibit which tells the story of two dolls who wish to be real girls (basically Pinocchio with a Japanese twist). The exhibition starts on Jan 8, but you can RSVP with [email protected] for an invite to the private opening on Jan 7.

Thistle Bindery Turns 3 (Jan 11, 4pm)

Local bookbinders The Thistle Bindery are celebrating their third anniversary with a marbling session and potluck dinner. It’s all free as long as you can put together a potluck dish with whatever you have at home already.