It may be that time of the year again where locals and tourists alike gather to ring in the festive season, but due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, a more scaled down affair will likely take place across the island this time around.
And that begins with the annual Orchard Road Christmas Light-Up, which will still be happening from Nov 13, 2020-Jan 1, 2021, through a variety of experiences and promotions at malls within the vicinity. It has also been confirmed that the highly-anticipated Great Christmas Village will not make its return during the holiday season this year.
Instead, look forward to livestreaming a virtual Light-Up ceremony (Nov 13) on the Community Chest Facebook page and YouTube channel which will be officiated by President Mdm Halimah Yacob at Ion Orchard. For the first time ever, the public is also invited to take a “drive” along the 2.88km stretch from Tanglin Mall to Dhoby Ghaut, including Scotts Road, in an all-new virtual 360-deg tour accessible from Singapore and around the world.
Or else, simply head down on your own time to check out the precinct’s dazzling display of lights and decorations. Snap Insta-worthy shots around Somerset, Orchard and Tanglin as brightly-lit snowflakes intertwined with mistletoe and hollies in white, gold and blue will be strung across street lights in the area; or explore the Orchard-Paterson Road junction to witness the shimmering main arch adorned with a gigantic blue ribbon and festooned with glittering reindeers as well as hollies.
This year’s Christmas Light-Up theme is a heartwarming one—Love This Christmas seeks to be a reminder that no physical distance should stop anyone from showing love to those they care about. It is therefore also dedicated to frontliners, in recognition of their contributions and sacrifices during this period. Promotions for shopping, dining and services are extended to these workers including healthcare personnel, security guards, delivery staff and teachers, and they can be found on the official Christmas on A Great Street microsite in time to come.
Singaporeans are encouraged to nominate a frontline hero as well; locals can simply share an inspiring story of resilience on Christmas on A Great Street’s microsite to stand a chance to win attractive prizes for themselves and their heroes.
Finally, for the eight year running, Orchard Road has also teamed up with Mastercard to bring shoppers holiday promotions. From Nov 13-Dec 24, the first 100 Mastercard users who spend $300 each week at any of the 12 participating malls are eligible to receive $30 mall vouchers that can be redeemed with a maximum of five same-day receipts from the same mall.
Some popular shopping centres involved include 313@somerset, Ngee Ann City and Orchard Central.
So don’t be disheartened by the humble affairs happening this year-end and instead look forward to closing the challenging year off on a good note. Shop and party responsibly; a brand new chapter lies ahead.
Christmas On A Great Street 2020 happens from Nov 13-Jan 1 2021. More information available here.
