It’s been a long year, and 2019 is finally coming to a close. As expected, plenty of awesome feasts, exciting year-end parties and lovely Christmas markets are in session during this festive season. Have fun people, we’ll see you next year.
MUSIC
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, perhaps a ticket to the upcoming U2 gig might help. Dropping by as part of their Joshua Tree Tour 2019 is Bono and gang with decade-defying ultimate rock classics like “With Or Without You” and “Beautiful Day”. Dec 1
MARKET
Pick up artisanal Christmas gifts and bakes at Wheeler’s Market–Festive Edition. To get you into the holiday spirit, local musicians will also be dishing out festive tunes. Dec 1
FILM/FESTIVAL
The Singapore International Film Festival aka SGIFF will continue to champion local talents while celebrating cinema at its finest as they mark their anniversary once again with new, exclusive commissions, a coming-of-age feature film, free outdoor movie screenings and plenty of other programmes. Through Dec 1
LITERATURE
An incredible year-end sale of all of Ethos Books is here. Pick up reads for next to nothing, and either bring a tote bag or purchase a limited edition one on the spot to be #sustainable. From Nov 29-Dec 1, they’ll be at The Substation with discounted books, tarot card reading seshs, plus delicious bakes by Ethos’ master chefs. Through Dec 1
FESTIVAL
A celebration of everything anime, the Anime Festival Asia (C3 AFA) is one of the most well-known cosplay festivals internationally. For over a decade, anime enthusiasts have flocked to the convention in the thousands to endorse their universal love for Japanese animation films and shows. Through Dec 1
FOOD/DRINK
Eat and drink well this festive season at Butcher Boy, as they’ll be hosting A Christmas Roast every Sunday in December. Look forward to their Signature Roast Chicken, Xmas Baked Honey Glazed Ham, Pigs in a Blanket and even Butcher Boy’s famed traditional homemade Yorkshire Pudding. Dec 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
THEATRE
Inspired by Charles Mee’s Big Love as well as Limonade Tous les Jours, Affections is an all-new holiday rom com about love and life. Presented by one of Singapore’s newest theatre troupes, The Assembly Point, expect bouts of funny moments and relatable elements. Dec 5-7
SHOW
Enjoy an enchanting display of romance, movement and music, as the Singapore Dance Theatre will be presenting the timeless Swan Lake, together with the Metropolitan Festival Orchestra. Dec 5-8
PARTY
Presenting DJ Nightmares On Wax with Joshua P is Kilo Lounge for one Friday night you’ll surely remember. Pre-sale tickets are now going at $20 and are expected to be sold out, so get ‘em quick. Dec 6
MUSIC
The newest EDM festival at Siloso Beach (and arguably ZoukOut’s replacement), Legacy Festival 2019 is set to be a good one. There’s Don Diablo, Zedd, Tiesto and more, coming to (literally) our shores. Dec 6-7
MARKET
Hop on a free shuttle bus and be whisked away to yet another festive market. At Keppel Bay’s A Merry Market, expect Christmas bubble tea (OMG), trinkets and more delightful gifts, perfect for the season of giving. Dec 6-7
SHOP
The F1 Pit Building will once again play host to a rambunctious celebration of hip-hop music, streetwear, street art and even toys, as Culture Cartel returns, following its inaugural edition last year. Dec 6-8
MARKET
Make it a proper excursion as Capitol Singapore and Chijmes join hands to present one of the biggest Christmas markets (over 50 booths) in town with The Season of Joy. Ring in the merry mood with roving performers, a singing tree, snowfall, plenty of Insta-worthy spots and even a skating rink. Dec 6-24
PARTY
If there’s an ‘80s party to get excited about, it’s retro disco bar Nineteen80’s weekly Friday night party, Radio Ga Ga. We’ll always be expecting throwback tracks and tunes from the Queen. Dec 6, 13, 20, 27
ART
Everyone’s favourite childhood stationery brand Pentel will be hosting an urban sketching workshop at Emerald Hill come Saturday afternoon. The members of Urban Sketchers Singapore will walk attendees through the basics of urban sketching, so if you’ve always wanted to gain some art skills, sign up for a spot. Dec 7
MARKET
Head down for The Hive Lavender’s second Christmas market that’ll be filled with exciting gifts, treats and cool workshops. Vendors include Youniverse Design, Jezzroom and Baggie’s – The Finest Meats in Town. Dec 7
PARTY
Kick-off the festive season with a Masquerade Ball at Altimate Singapore. It’ll be a night to remember, so pull out your black and gold ‘fits, don a mask, and get grooving to Bollywood beats. Dec 7
PARTY
Community and heritage are about to be brought together at Hmlet Cantonment’s block party. Built in 1954, the building has seen commercial offices, a primary school, and will soon be home to a large co-living space in partnership with Sunshine Nation (which calls for a celebration). Great eats and drinks will be available, so come thirsty and hungry for food. Dec 7
MUSIC
Head to the decommissioned Pasir Panjang Power Station, which will see its first large-scale music event, The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions. Female-fronted, an entire line-up of local and international musicians are set to take the stage, bringing with them hits from across multiple genres. Dec 7
MARKET
Be sure to pay Winestone’s Sustainable Christmas Fair a visit if you’re an eco-conscious shopper looking to connect with other like-minded individuals. Plenty of small businesses, artisans and social enterprises will be supported, so check out their cool offerings which includes home decor, fashion, as well as sweet treats. Dec 7-8
FOOD/DRINK
Join Burnt End Cellars on a Sunday afternoon to taste a select range of new wines, while Meatsmith Little India serves up tasty bar grub. Expect producers like Architects of Wine, KT Wines, La Petite Mort and more to showcase their drinks. Pallet Party #28: Christmas Edition will be held at the private room of cocktail bar Rogue Trader in the heart of Little India. Dec 8
MUSIC
Vent Box 2019 will see some of the most underground bands, both local and international, all gathering at The Red Lantern. The exciting line-up includes Deus ex Machina, Opposition Party, Tariot and Assault. Dec 8
THEATRE
Marking the 40th anniversary of the infamous musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street this year, the Singapore Repertory Theatre will be staging the first-ever presentation of the Stephen Sondheim production on our shores, at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands. Book your tickets quick, as the show will only be here for a little more than a week. Through Dec 8
FOOD/PARTY
Chill and indulge in comfort food like babi guling and satay as Asian restaurant Fat Chap dishes out awesome street bites. Gather your friends, challenge them to a round of beer pong, and just have a good time at Fat Chap’s Anniversary Street Food Party. From 6pm onwards. Dec 10
FOOD/DRINK
This Dec 11, join us at cocktail bar Idlewild for our very own readership event where you’ll get to drink and dine for free (yes, you heard that right). Their Rare and The Unusual spirits flight will be presented, so get to sample some truly unique bottlings while being taken on a tour of the air travel-inspired space. Tapas and a welcome cocktail will also be served, so you’ll be in for a real treat. 20 lucky readers will be picked; sign-up here. Dec 11
PARTY
This mid-December, French music label Ed Banger Records will be bringing its talents to Zouk for a fun-filled evening. Expect Breakbot, Cassius, Justice, Busy P and more, to tear up the dancefloor. Dec 12
PARTY
A showcase of Arabian beauty products, crafts, fashion, food and music, Sentosa’s Arabian Night is set to be a fun one for the whole gang/fam. Dec 12
MARKET
Find a celebration that’ll involve your love for presents and travel at Guoco Tower’s Urban Park, as it’ll soon play host to Kira Kira Wanderland. Organised by Japan Rail Cafe, Kira Kira will offer F&B as well as travel-inspired gifts. Dec 12-15
PARTY
Throwing what we know will be one of the best anniversary parties out there is party people This Is The 90s. Collabs with Converse and Tiger Beer will ensure that you’ll get some cool drink deals as well as prizes for those decked out in cute ‘fits to match their Chuck Taylors. As always, cop cool ‘90s clothing from their dress rack. Dec 13
EAT/DRINK
The Epicurean Market, taking place Dec 13-15 across three halls at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, is shaking things up in more ways than one in 2019. The holiday theme sets the right mood to feast, drink and shop, while the format too, changes, with their hallmark Signature Series held alongside the food and wine show. Dec 13-15
FITNESS/TRAVEL
Not what you’d typically expect from a cruise, WKND F!T is a three-day fitness cruise that offers five-star accommodation and group fitness classes, in addition to all your usual offerings. From as low as $395, embark on this lifestyle travel concept sailing, brainchild of nightlife juggernaut Zouk and Dream Cruises. Dec 13-15
MARKET
Here’s yet another Christmas flea to attend. Located at Wheelock Place, expect good music, food and beverages, as well as goodies sold by Instagrammers like Clara Hong, Coco Mercy and Debbie Kate. Dec 14-15
MARKET
Back once again for a special Christmas edition, pick up unique Yuletide gifts as well as holiday eats from vendors like Blessed Sevens, Dees Boutique, The Last Straw, and more, at Villa Fiesta Christmas Market. Dec 15
ART
Travelling art workshop and show petit h by Hermes is making a stop in Singapore, and everyone’s invited to see local industrial designer Olivia Lee at work. Happening at Hermes Liat Towers, in the heart of Orchard Road. Through Dec 15
DRINK
Tonic purveyors The London Essence Company is officially launching in Singapore, and they’re doing so with a bang by getting some of the region’s top bartenders—the likes of Hidetsugu Ueno of Bar High Five, Nick Wu of Bar Mood, Natalie Lau of The Old Man Hong Kong and more to create cocktails using the sophisticated mixer. Come party and drink with them across two nights, first at Manhattan (from 7pm) then at No Sleep Club (from 8pm). Dec 17-18
THEATRE
Get ready to be wowed as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical Cats is coming to town for a showing. What else is there to say? We just can’t wait to hear “Memory” live once again. Dec 17-Jan 5
DRINK
It’s round two of the Monkey Shoulder’s Made for Mixing Bar Tour, where you get to enjoy great cocktails at some of the best bars in town, and where mingling with fellow bus folk is not optional. So choose a date and hop on—you’ll end up spirited and in the company of new friends in no time. Dec 18-21
PLAY
Heading out of the heartlands and right into the heart of town is Uncle Ringo with the internationally renowned The Great Circus of Europe. Enjoy a circus within a carnival this Christmas, at the beautiful Bayfront Event Space. Dec 20-Jan 1
MARKET
Have a holly jolly Christmas with Bayfront Farmer’s Christmas Market at Gardens by the Bay. Socially-driven, the farmer’s market is here to spread the Christmas cheer with unique offerings at the Bayfront Pop-up Market. Dec 21-22
FOOD/DRINK
Enjoy a four-course Christmas dinner at Porta this season, sure to put you in a festive mood. There’ll be pan-seared Hokkaido scallops, lobster thermidor, beef tenderloin, and of course a deconstructed Christmas cake. Dec 23-25, 30-31
PARTY
This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, don the ugliest Christmas sweater you’ve got and savour classic Christmas fare at Alley on 25’s festive buffet which boasts a lavish variety of premium roast and grill selections, desserts, as well as Christmas-themed booze like eggnog and mulled wine. Dec 24-25
FOOD/DRINK
Coastal Christmas 2019 is coming to Tanjong Beach Club. Indulge in a festive brunch spread featuring Boston lobsters, fresh oysters, tuna sashimi, roast turkey, plus bottomless tipples. Dec 25
PARTY
A sexy, festive affair awaits at Lulu’s Lounge, with Jingle Belle. It’ll still be ladies’ night, so girls, enjoy bottomless Aperol Spritz from 10pm till 1am. Big house favourite Trumpet Z will also be present to play funky Christmas tunes to keep you grooving all night long. Dec 25
PLAY
Christmas Wonderland 2019 is back, and for the very first time, a Christmas Parade will take place to liven things up even more. From Fridays to Sundays and from Dec 24-25, look out for three magnificent floats roving around with Santa, his elves, santarinas and other folks from the North Pole prancing on them. While on other days, it’ll be Santa riding on his sleigh float, looking out for those of you who have been naughty or nice. Through Dec 26
FESTIVAL
An annual cosplay and youth community event in Singapore, EOY J-Culture offers an avenue for J-pop and anime lovers to parade their passion through performances, cosplay (duh), illustrations, photography and more. Dec 28-29
FOOD/THEATRE
Returning with Valhalla and the Chambers of Asgard is Andsoforth, to be presented in a multi-room format, and happening just in time with the year-end festivities. Take on the role of a viking or shield-maiden, then traverse seven different rooms in an attempt to ascend into Valhalla, the paradise and heaven-equivalent in Norse mythology. Through Dec 29
PARTY
Happening at Sentosa Cove Village is Island Lights 2019. Check out giant illuminated art installations, this year revolving around the theme of ‘Celebration’. Local and international artists will be showcasing seven eye-catching works that are all best admired after sunset, including the light-hearted Candy Quartz. Bound to be a crowd favourite, it’s actually a seesaw, and encourages passersby to interact with it. Through Dec 31
PARTY
Returning for its second annual edition is Star Island, a synchronised performance of Japanese-designed fireworks, lights, music, pyrotechnics and many other high-tech elements at The Float @ Marina Bay. The theme for this year’s affair is A Space Odyssey. Dec 31
PARTY 
If ending 2019 on an epic high is your goal, look no further than the 13th edition of the only beach countdown party in town. The Siloso Beach Party 2019 will be making its final return for the decade with an even bigger bang than usual, with two stages and 12 hours of non-stop music. Head to the main stage for an eclectic mix of dance tracks as top regional DJs take turns on the decks. Just be sure to watch out for the water jets on the dance floor. Dec 31
PARTY
Toast to 2020 at Marquee Singapore as the Tao Group nightclub will be hosting its very first countdown revelry. Led by Dutch DJ and record producer duo W&W, the party at this wild venue in town will definitely be banging, so head on down once the sun sets on Tuesday. Dec 31
PARTY
Get excited; a Haji Lane NYE party is coming. We don’t know much about it sadly, but if there’s one thing about the Haji Lane stretch, its that it’s throwdowns are the bomb. Dec 31
PARTY
For a countdown party at a rooftop bar, head to Ce La Vi’s Sky Casino, where all your favourite club hits, drinks and casino table games will be available. Think Casino Royale when you head down to try your luck at some of their table games, and be entranced by their Vegas-style performers. Dec 31
PARTY
Come on down to Orchard stalwart Hard Rock Cafe for a rockin’ good time you won’t soon forget. A special NYE menu awaits, that comes with food, a party pack and a bottle of prosecco. To top it off, rock band Tabula will be on stage to keep things vibing all night long into 2020. Dec 31
PARTY
Lantern at The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore rooftop is an ever-popular spot to catch the Marina Bay fireworks, thanks to an unobstructed view, the perfect elevation, and some of the best seats around whether you’re looking for a comfy sofa, a high table or poolside deck chairs. Get a Table Package or just pay for cover charge to get in.
PARTY
Here’s your invitation to ring in the new year with InterContinental Singapore’s air travel-inspired cocktail bar Idlewild. Headlining the entertainment segment is Janine Annice with The Wild Ones; and not only will you get to have a Taittinger Champagne toast at midnight, look forward to enjoying two cocktails that’ll take you on a journey from London to New York. Prices and more information available here. Dec 31
PARTY
Party it up at Monti with their Gold & Glitter Soiree, that begins just before sunset. Curated by the group’s chefs, a 4-course (6pm) and 5-course (9:45pm) meal will be served, plus plenty of drinks. And don’t worry, an unparalleled view of the fireworks is promised. Dec 31
FOOD/DRINK
Dig into mouth-watering dishes like the 1.1kg Bone-In Rib Eye “Cote de Beouf” with chimichurri and violet mustard and Iberico Pork ‘Secreto’’ with cauliflower puree, marinated prunes and smoked onions at Artemis this New Year’s Eve. Dec 31
PARTY
Join in a major feast, liquid buffet and glam NYE revelry at LeVeL33’s New Year’s Eve party, where you’ll also get a great view of Singapore’s cityscape and fireworks. Dec 31
PARTY
Countdown the final hours of 2019 with your furry friends, as Pet Pawty: NYE Countdown Edition will offer shopping booths, workshops, dog runs, picnics, contests and games. It’ll be one of the most wholesome ways to welcome the new year. Dec 31
PARTY
Dance on the beach, clink Champagne glasses and ring in the new year with Tanjong Beach Club’s Brand New Day: New Year’s Eve Countdown. On the very last day of 2019, bop to beats by DJ Andrew M and just let loose at one of the best beach clubs in Singapore. Dec 31
EXHIBITION
Fans of Disney’s Frozen, step into A Frozen Wonderland at Changi Airport this year-end as the world of Frozen 2 come to life. Meet characters like Elsa and Olaf, brave the elements in an experiential zone, enjoy an Arendelle-inspired festive market at Jewel, and so much more. Through Jan 5
DRINK/SHOP
Have a drink and shop for a personalised gift at the same time at The Johnnie Walker Gifting Studio. Make sure to stop by the Terminal 3 departure transit area if you’re travelling, and bag yourself bottles of Johnnie Walker, Talisker, Tanqueray and more at this pop-up. Personalise each bottle with a message on the spot, enjoy sweet treats by famed local pastry chefs the likes of Janice Wong and Cheryl Koh, and even get to try sips from selected bottlings before you buy. Through Jan 9
EXHIBITION
Thailand’s contemporary photography scene comes into the spotlight at DECK’s latest showcase, GAP: a distinct to reality. Four Thai photographers present works that question how much of reality can photographic images truly portray. Admission is free. Through Jan 22
EXHIBITION
The STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery is hosting Memento Mori, showcasing 70 unique works and 30 editioned pieces by Indonesian performance artist Melati Suryodarmo. Through Jan 24
Sharon Chin, In the Skin of a Tiger: Monument to What We Want (Tugu Kita), 2019. Image courtesy of Singapore Art Museum
EXHIBITION
The Singapore Biennale has returned for its sixth edition, promising over 150 artworks in various mediums across 11 different venues in our city. During the opening weekend, look forward to unique artist performances, guided tours led by curators and artists, as well as fun workshops. Through Mar 22
EXHIBITION
Discover Singapore’s early history at On Paper: Singapore Before 1867 which features over 150 paper-based artefacts that tell the story of Singapore’s early history. Carefully preserved pieces like the 17th-century Portugese navigational chart that points to the existence of a Shahbandar in Singapore and a key document that established the Straits Settlements as a Crown Colony of Great Britain in 1867 can all be found at the National Library Building. Through Mar 22
EXHIBITION
Explore the 200 years leading up to the establishment of an entrepot in Singapore in 1819, beginning with the trade in the East Indies which attracted the Dutch and the British during the early 17th century. You’ll embark on a journey through An Old New World, which features over 220 artefacts including pieces on-loan from institutional and private collections. Through Mar 29
EXHIBITION
Attain a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of your favourite Disney animated films as the ArtScience Museum will be presenting Disney: Magic of Animation, for the first time ever in Southeast Asia. Over 500 pieces of art from a wide array of films will be displayed at this landmark exhibition, including artist sketches, audio-visual displays, projections and interactive activities. Through Mar 29
EXHIBITION
Discover what might lie ahead by checking out small, human-scale acts of innovation and contemplation at 2219: Futures Imagined. The ArtScience Museum exhibition will feature some of the best installations yet, with a HDB apartment set within the space, a satire newspaper, and more. Through Apr 5
