Attention locals and tourists alike! Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable experience. This year, the 8th edition of the Singapore River Festival embodies the theme of ‘Lights and Colours’ with a myriad of things to do along the waterfront.
The Singapore River is about to transform into a bustling hub of entertainment with mesmerising light shows, performances, games, and other treats for your senses that celebrate Singapore’s culture and rich history around Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Robertson Quay. Let’s dive into some of the fun memories you can make!
Symphony of Lights
I don’t often find myself admiring Singapore’s urban landscape, but the Symphony of Lights might change that! The Cavenagh Bridge and Read Bridge have been around for over a hundred years and are set to be the canvases for dazzling light displays, syncing with the city’s rhythm and creating a beautiful tapestry.
For those seeking a more serene retreat, the Alkaff Bridge casts a ‘Tranquil Oasis’ with calming hues that mirror the surrounding greenery and waters. Together, each unique display offers a multifaceted spectacle. Each show lasts three minutes, so find your preferred window of time to witness the magic!
🗓️Date: 4 October to 13 October 2024
⏰Time: 8pm, 8.15pm, 8.30pm, 8.45pm, 9pm, 9.15pm, 9.30pm, 9.45pm, 10pm
📍Location: Cavenagh Bridge, Read Bridge, Alkaff Bridge
Singapore River Signatures
It isn’t a celebration if there isn’t a feast, is it? Food is such a central part of Singapore’s culture, and this festival is for all foodies out there who love discovering new flavours and hidden culinary gems. With the Taste of the Quays tour, you can go on a food-hopping adventure at just S$35 per pax, sampling delicacies like Yong Tau Foo, Nasi Padang, or even nut-based gelato from Dopa Dopa. For those feeling a bit more adventurous, you’ll be able to engage in Singapore’s high-spirited nightlife – no pun intended – for the same price. The Pub Crawl offers exclusive drink deals and the opportunity to have fun with other party-goers while exploring Singapore’s bar scene!
If you’re down to take it one step further in the kitchen, you can try your hand at the food and cocktail-making workshops. I’m more of a pastry lover, so the croissant-decorating workshop at Kwaasong Bakeshop has my mouth watering. Find more details about the tour and workshops at the Singapore River Festival website!
More Highlights!
Beyond the lights and food, the Singapore River Festival offers activities that cater to all ages and interests. One event I’m particularly interested in is the Rhythmic Symphony at Boat Quay Waterfront on 4 October and 5 October. The idea of enjoying live music performances after the sun goes down on a roving boat or by the river sounds like a dream. With electrifying performances by various artists, such as SMU Samba Masala and 555 Beatbox, this experience will be one for the books!
For a more laid-back experience, the City Light Walk along Clarke Quay Central on 5 October 2024 offers a 3km walk and a 7km walk to discover more about Singapore’s history along the beautifully lit riverside. A night walk can get gloomy, but this one has glowing figurines, interactive photo booths, and fun workshops to keep things lively!
Fur-tastic Paw-ty
Now, if you wish your pet could join in on the fun, I’ve got good news for you! Turn up at the Fur-tastic Paw-ty for activities like bumboat rides, obstacle courses, pet food workshops, competitive challenges, and more! Having your furry friends join in the fun is a lovely way to bond with them outdoors, so don’t forget to drop by the Fur-tastic Photo Booth on 12 October and 13 October 2024 between 8 to 10pm to snap some photos for keepsake!
🗓️Date: 12 October to 13 October 2024
📍Location: Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024
Heritage Games Fiesta
And if you’re feeling nostalgic, traditional games are making a comeback! There’ll be games like pick-up sticks, aeroplane chess, and my personal favourite – snakes and ladders. And they’ll be in giant form! The bigger, the better. There are workshops like ‘Make a Chapteh’ and ‘Paint a Wooden Top’ that you can participate in as a family. If you’re like me and didn’t have much experience playing traditional games as a child, the movie screening of ‘The Little Mermaid’ and giveaways of balloon sculptures and candy floss will still take you right back to your childhood!
🗓️Date: 12 October to 13 October 2024
📍Location: Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St, Singapore 237995
Singapore River Festival 2024 Event Details
What I appreciate most about the Singapore River Festival is how it brings attention to the river’s role in Singapore’s history while celebrating its modern-day significance. This festival is a reminder of how far the area has come and the rich history it holds! Be sure to support the local businesses while you’re here to soak up the good vibes.
There’s so much more to see, taste, and experience than what I’ve covered, so the ‘River of Lights and Colours’ is a celebration you don’t want to miss at one of Singapore’s iconic hot spots!
🗓️Dates: 4 October to 13 October 2024
📍Location: Boat Quay, Clarke Quay & Robertson Quay
For more information about the different activities and their timings, visit the official Singapore River Festival website.
Visuals Courtesy of Singapore River Festival.
