The final quarter of the year is fast approaching, and there’s no time to be idling. Get your September packed with a mix of biggies like the F1 concerts, art enclave Gillman Barracks’ Art After Dark open house, and Resorts World Sentosa’s annual Great Food Festival, before balancing it out with cosier, long-awaited events like the return of the The Council Warehouse and Shakespeare’s Globe, plus (finally) a block party on Amoy Street once again.
Hoody
CONCERT
Marina Bay Sands’ quarterly Open Stage free concert series is back, and this time, they’re presenting us with a trio of captivating acts. Indie bands Sobs and Astronauts, as well as up-and-coming Korean R&B act Hoody will be keeping your entire Saturday evening entertained. Sep 1
PARTY
Go All-Night-Long with Orio at Kilo Lounge as the founder and creative director of Fat Fish Familia dishes an eclectic mix of sounds inspired by disco-funk, tribe and jungle, coupled with soulful house and rich techno. Sep 1
DRINK
In celebration of the launch of their new range of bespoke craft beers, The Loco Group is throwing fiesta Malt Friction at Lucha Loco, promising a night of libations, live arm wrestling by luchadors, a beer pong showdown, and DJs Amy Dabbs & Justmack keeping things upbeat all night. Sep 1
FOOD
For the love of all things Thai, Chang Sensory Trails returns for a third edition with mouthwatering dishes from your favorite local Thai restaurants, live music sets, and lots of Chang beer. Through Sep 1
PARTY
No party like a Substation party—the art space’s exclusive ticketed event Substation After Dark (SAD) has less to do with getting wasted, and more with getting woke. Entry gets you access to a panel discussion on conservation, a cheeky auction selling off bits of our local heritage, actual getai performances, and a closer look at the ongoing exhibition. Sep 1 & 15
MARKET
There’s reason to get up early this weekend, with the idyllic Wheeler’s Estate at Seletar Aerospace Park throwing a full-day market filled with food, music and shopping. Start off with a yoga sesh, grab a bite, then pick up a trinket or two before you leave. Sep 1-2
Have a look at all the markets in September where you should be shelling out your bills.
MARKET
Save your dollar dollar bills and spend them on rare and soon-to-be out-of-print books, at Ethos Books’ first-ever, week-long book sale. From weighty classics to non-fiction reads, to poetry and local literature, every title will be going at a flat rate of $2; selected Ethos books will be half off. Head down to the store at 28 Sin Ming Lane early; you can bet there’ll be bookworm nuts bagging books by the kilo. Sep 1-9
CONCERT
Three home-grown acts from the Noise Music Mentorship program, Adia Tay, The Betts and Stopgap, have emerged as full-fledged musicians, rocking out on-stage with originals that have won audiences over at other music festivals and stage performances in Singapore. Expect them to belt out their own brand of alt-pop, rock, jazz and more for your late Sunday afternoon listening pleasure at NAC-ExxonMobil Concert in the Park. Sep 2
Cook & Brew’s Penne
FOOD 
Take your next dining experience up to the skies (we’re talking 33 stories up) with Cook & Brew‘s all new refreshed menu starting this month, carefully curated by Executive Chef Aaron Foster. Inspired from his upbringing that sparked his life-long career using authentic family recipes passed on to him over generations, here are some of the picks we love; the East Coast Canadian Mussels in Thai Green Curry (a recipe learnt from his Thai chef wife), the Penne with Sausage and Red Sauce (a spin-off from his dad’s recipe with homemade sausages) and he pays homage to his Canadian origin with the Maple Apple Oatmeal Streusel Tart. Ongoing
FOOD
The self-proclaimed “largest world food fair” takes over the Singapore Expo with over 200 exhibitors. Stock up on your favorite local F&B brands or branch out to groceries from abroad; there’s also organic and health foods, sauces and condiments, cooking appliances, hot foods to look forward to. Through Sep 2
FILM
The Israel Film Festival returns for its 26th edition with a leaner line-up of five films at The Projector. Opening and closing the festival is black comedy Longing, a family-centric drama that sets the tone for the rest of the tearjerker films. Through Sep 2
DRINK
Perhaps the only thing more exciting than the return of Singapore’s most anticipated beer event is the news that it will no longer be held at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre. The 2018 edition of Beerfest Asia, which happens to be the festival’s 10th anniversary, will be held at The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay. As such, expect a supersized edition, with the bigger venue and an even larger range of local and international beers; over 600, up from last year’s 500. Through Sep 2
FILM
Film festival fever comes in hot and heavy with the annual Asian Restored Classics, which this year features nine restored films across Asia from the ‘20s to the ‘90s. Check out our picks here. Through Sep 2
FOOD
Andaz Singapore offers an extended breakfast spread with the latest launch of Lazy Breakfast ($35) at Alley on 25 that now runs from 11.30am to 2.30pm on weekends and public holidays. On top of the extensive breakfast spread, you also get an additional a la carte breakfast dish (choose from six options). For a boozy touch, you can opt to top up $35 for free-flow Prosecco, wines, draught beer or create your very own concoction of mojitos at the do-it-yourself mojito bar. Ongoing
PARTY
Head on up to the top of Bay Hotel Singapore and join in the party at Propeller rooftop bar as it celebrates its one year anniversary by offering drinks and food at only $10 from 9pm-10pm on Friday, then from 5pm-1am from Sat-Sun. Be sure to try their new My Lion cocktail as you groove to the live DJ set. Sep 6-8
FESTIVAL
Feel the Mid-Autumn Festival vibes as Gardens by the Bay adorns its entire grounds with beautiful lanterns big and small. Come check out the bustling marketplace too, where performances, food, and traditional Chinese craft showcases await. Sep 6-24
PARTY
Save the date, the next edition of The Council Warehouse is upon us, with regulars Cats On Crack, Julien Brochard, Deen and more on deck duty. The secret venue is still hush hush, so keep track of their event page for the latest. Sep 7
PARTY
Step into a mystical world as Bar Rouge transforms into a land of fun and fantasy for its one year anniversary celebrations, Cirque Rouge. There’ll be a carnival with stilt walkers, snake charmers and ribbon dancers to entertain you as you revel till dawn. Sep 7
CONCERT
Crowds are set to descend upon the Singapore Indoor Stadium for the region’s largest gathering of Kpop artists at HallyuPopFest. The three-day festival will see the likes of Apink, Wanna One and Taeyeon indulge their screaming fans. Sep 7-9
MARKET
More than 200 street vendors hawking mooncakes, tea and decorative ornaments will fill the streets in Chinatown—stretching from Pagoda Street to Smith Street for the Mid-Autumn Festival period. Sep 7-24
FOOD/DRINK
Tras Street’s newest entrant is throwing a housewarming party and everyone’s invited. Restaurant Kinou’s bash will be a boozy brunch affair, filled with eats like their signature burgers, deep fried chicken wings, pasta with pork sausages, and of course, plenty of booze. Sep 8
DRAG
What happens when drag queens get to have a revue exactly the way they want it? A RIOT!, that’s what. The slightly filthy, definitely trashy, and highly entertaining show is back, this time at Hard Rock Cafe, with your host, Becca D’Bus. Sep 8
STGCC 2017
CONVENTION
Last year may have been Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention‘s (STGCC) big 10, but that won’t stop them from outdoing themselves again this year. As always, expect plenty of cosplay pageantry, exciting eSports competitions and special appearances from iconic artists. Sep 8-9
FESTIVAL
Encouraging us to head out for grub rather than order in, Foodpanda is bringing their Bites & Vibes festival (the same one they throw in various cities worldwide) to where else but block party central Amoy Street, marking the first time the event is being held in Singapore. Sep 9
MUSIC
Highly influential and well-loved musician, saxophonist, arranger and producer from Brazil, Leo Gandelman, will be making his debut here as he performs for two nights at one of the best jazz venues in town, Cool Cats. Consider your date plans sorted. Sep 10-11
COMEDY
F*** Tinder, right? Yeah, the people at Merry Lion will agree. Laugh out loud at this comedy/speed dating event where there’s bound to be no awkward silences. Singles only. Sep 12
Have more laughs at these comedy venues in town.
DRINK
Whether you know exactly how to describe its taste (without using the word smooth), or fancy something that’s just easy to drink, Wine Lust 2018 promises to have a little something for everyone. Returning for the second time, Wine Lust presents an outstanding selection of 15 award-winning restaurants, 40 specialist wine events and 500 wine varietals. Through Sep 10
CONCERT
As exhilarating as it can be watching world-famous racers and cars zoom past you, we all know the highlight of the Singapore Grand Prix is the entertainment. This year, you can expect to see the King of Mandpop himself, Jay Chou, with a guest performance by his Sing! China mentee and local jazz darling Joanna Dong, The Killers, Liam Gallagher, Martin Garrix, Dua Lipa, Simply Red, The Sugarhill Gang, ABBA tribute band Bjorn Again, and more. Sep 14-16
FOOD
From legendary live acts to legendary burgers, Hard Rock Cafe Singapore and Hard Rock Cafe Sentosa is here to rock your world at the dining table. Some of our best picks include the Original Legendary Burger, Wagyu Bacon Cheese Burger and the Classic Cheese Burger, paired with seasonal fries for an all-time nostalgic experience you just can’t pass up on. Check out the full menu here. Over the legendary F1 weekend, race ticket holders can enjoy 15% all ala carte food along with 10% off merchandise. Sep 14-16
PARTY
There’re plenty of F1 parties in town, but Zouk’s three-day retro-themed Checkpoint is where you’ll wanna be. Start your F1 weekend on Friday with resident DJ Hong, before checking back on Saturday with Dutch DJ-producer luminary R3HAB, then end on a high on Sunday as UK R&B crooner Jay Sean races to the finish. Sep 14-16
PARTY
Collective Minds and Kilo Lounge are bringing Breakbot and Irfane back to Singapore for another epic night of non-stop dancing, with local fav DJ KFC on support. Sep 15
PARTY
Back for the 11th year, the parties at Amber Lounge Singapore are even more exhilarating and entertaining than ever before! Kick-off Saturday at the annual Amber Lounge Fashion Show featuring F1 drivers on the catwalk, with a showcase of exclusive looks and a bevy of international models. The party will be pumping till late with EXTRAVAGANZA; an exciting line-up with breath-taking club dancers, singers, a saxophonist and drummer, as well as our surprise International Act performing live. Book your tables here. Sep 15
PARTY
On the final night of the highly sought-after Formula 1 weekend, expect nothing less than a glamorous Grand Prix AFTER PARTY at Amber Lounge Singapore’s final night. Party among the prolific F1 drivers and teams right after the final race and expect iconic live acts, DJ’s and free-flowing champagne to keep you partying till the early hours of the morning. Book your tables here. Sep 16
CONCERT
If you were one of the many die-hard fans who were sad that music collective Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox got cancelled last year, you’ll be glad to know that they’re coming back to perform at the Kallang Theatre for one night only. Sep 18
THEATER
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend us your ears. Julius Caesar isn’t coming to town, but the world-renowned company that’s staged his namesake play many times over, is. Shakespeare’s Globe from London is returning to perform three of the playwrights’s most loved comedies. Sep 18-22
ART/FESTIVAL
Gillman Barracks’ popular Art After Dark nighttime open house event is back in celebration of the district’s sixth birthday bash, and you can bet it’ll be one heck of a party. Head from gallery to gallery or just drink and chill by the streets as the entire enclave transforms into a heady mix of art, music and F&B. Sep 21
FOOD
As part of Chinatown’s Mid-Autumn Festival festivities, Kreta Ayer Square will play host to a two-night street food fair spotlighting Cantonese food and snacks. Alongside a line-up of street activities like face threading and fortune-telling, chomp on favorites like claypot rice, wanton noodles and dim sum. Sep 22-23
Singapore Tea Festival 2017
FESTIVAL
What better way to sit back and watch drama unfold than with a cup of tea, really. If that sounds good to you, check out Singapore Tea Festival as they make a return to ION Orchard’s basement four, following its successful inaugural launch last year. Sep 21-23
FESTIVAL
Previously an event dedicated to craft beers, Craft Singapore is back with its third edition in 2018 with an expanded interest in craft spirits and food, as well as bringing together the best local musicians, DJs and artists to form a festival that celebrates the broader craft movement here. Sep 21-23
FESTIVAL
Have a crack at the island’s largest mooncake at the Wan-Qing Mid-Autumn Festival 2018, where they’ll be attempting to break the record for largest mooncake in Singapore. Sep 22-23
PARTY
Expect a fun mash of colors, energy, groove and attitude as Ginette Chittick & Linda Hao helm the decks at Intermission Bar for a revelry with no rules to hold you back. Come dressed in socks and sandals and dance like no one’s watching. Sep 22
EXHIBITION
The Substation kicks off the next installment of its 2018 exploration of the topic ‘Heritage’. En Bloc, or Buildings Must Die will feature an exhibition, talks and panels discussing the hot-button topic of conservation in Singapore. Through Sep 23
MUSICAL
We’re just as excited as you are about the return of The Lion King to our shore for its 20th anniversary It’s been more than two decades since the epic musical film about lions in Africa first came into our lives, and again in 2011 when the musical made its Southeast Asian debut. Immerse yourself in the magnificent world of Simba, Nala, Rafiki, Mufasa, Timon, Pumba and company when it returns for a two-month run. Through Sep 23
CONCERT
Lovers of YouTube success stories, mark your calendars. Viral hit sensation The Piano Guys are returning to our little island for a live show at the Star Theater. This year, you might even get to perform with them onstage. Sep 25
FOOD/FESTIVAL
Forget the tourist attractions, indulge in our national pastime and taste over 30 signature and new dishes by award-winning and Michelin-starred restaurants at Resorts World Sentosa’s annual Great Food Festival, where fine foods and a new Wine Cellar segment await. Sep 27-30
THEATER
The celebrated National Theatre Live comes to the Esplanade in two separate screenings this September. Operated by the Royal National Theatre in London, the series broadcasts live performances of the bestselling productions from the stage of National Theatre, Barbican and the West End to cinemas and arts institutions all around the world. For one day only, catch Stephen Sondheim’s legendary 1987 musical Follies brought to life on the Esplanade’s big screen—where two unhappy couples reunite in a crumbling Broadway theater scheduled for demolition, to sing and dance their sorrows away. If Shakespeare is more your cup of tea, come by in the evening for the screening of Nicholas Hytner’s 2018 take on political thriller Julius Caesar. Sep 28
TOUR
Dust off your scaredy-pants, because the eighth edition of Halloween Horror Nights is here and ready to terrify. Come face to face with Demogorgans, Pontianaks, and other chilling Asian ghosts, as Universal Studios Singapore is once again transformed into the creepiest place in the region. Sep 28-Oct 31
FILM
The second Malaysian Film Festival is happening at The Arts House once again to celebrate the very best of Malaysian cinema, here in Singapore, where action, horror and plenty of drama await. Sep 28-30
FOOD
Meat lovers, your time has come. The Carvery’s notorious Great Meat Feast is back and it’s positively drool-worthy. Unlike last year (where spread included other meats like pork), this year’s feast will mainly feature premium beef. Sep 28-Oct 21
FOOD/PARTY
It’s been a year since the first Soul Vibe Sundays, and Camp Kilo Charcoal Club is celebrating with good food and drink, a pop-up market, great music, and of course, plenty of feel-good vibes. Sep 30
EXHIBITION
Before It All Goes: Architecture from Singapore’s Early Independence Years is local photographer Darren Soh’s latest solo exhibition, which showcases his long-term documentation of sites in Singapore slated to disappear, or that already have. Through Sep 29
FOOD
Ready for a smorgasbord of seafood treats? You’ll definitely need to be at Sky22 for their September Seafood Bonanza. Tuck into the cook-to-order a la carte buffet spread with over 17 all-you-can-eat main courses and side fares, featuring Surf & Turf Platter of braised short ribs and grilled lobster and the Singapore Chilli Crab with Mantou Bun—just to name a few. Along with some of the freshest catch of prawns, mussels and scallops appetizers and a gastronomic spread of desserts, the buffet is available for both lunch and dinner on weekends. Through Sep 30
EXHIBITION
Dutch artist Theo Jansen is sending his prized Strandbeests to our shores. In fact entirely non-living, his world-renowned creatures made of PVC and wood are powered by wind, and spend their days moving gracefully across beaches (hence their name, which translates to “beach animal” in Dutch). Head to the ArtScience Museum for an exclusive look at this new species, where you can look at “fossils” of past beests, and even walk alongside 13 original Strandbeests. Through Sep 30
EXHIBITION
2018 has shaped up to be a fantastic year for Marvel. Besides the two epic movies releasing to staggering global success, they’re also presenting Marvel Studios: Ten Years of Heroes at ArtScience Museum, which delves into the science and tech behind the whole Marvel Cinematic Universe. Through Sep 30
EXHIBITION
After their last show, the National Museum’s current exhibition is a walk in the park—or playground, actually. The More We Get Together: Singapore’s Playgrounds 1930–2030 is a collaboration with the Housing & Development Board (HDB) to celebrate the historical icon that is Singapore playgrounds. Through Sep 30
EXHIBITION
Singapore’s first Nobel Peace Prize photographer Sim Chi Yin is exhibiting exclusive photos and videos from her series Fallout, in an exhibition hauntingly entitled Most people were silent. The series documents life and landscapes in the nuclear age. Through Oct 10
Check out more ongoing exhibitions worth your time and dime here.
EXHIBITION
Peranakan Museum’s latest exhibition, Amek Gambar: Peranakans and Photography, delves into the Southeast Asian history of photography through the pictured lives of the Peranakan community in the region. Through Feb 3, 2019
EXHIBITION
From Cold Storage to Tiger Balm, come chart the evolution of print advertising in Singapore from the 1830s to 1960s at Selling Dreams: Early Advertising in Singapore. Aside from just print advertisements, the exhibition at the National Library also includes interactive multimedia stations for you to experience life as a consumer in early Singapore. Through Feb 24, 2019
TOUR
The Singapore Zoo will be transformed into a lush and luminous universe to mark the attraction’s 45th anniversary this year. Experience Rainforest Lumina for yourself, where a whole stretch of tropical rainforest will be lit with multimedia visual effects come nighttime. You can even spend your night there by a campfire, if you so wish. Jul 1 onwards
