It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and trust us, you don’t want to miss out on the festive experience this year.
Whether you're belting out Christmas song lyrics or humming your way through a Christmas wonderland (minus the snow), our little red dot becomes a magical holiday haven during the Christmas celebrations in Singapore.
Picture this: twinkling Christmas trees lighting up Orchard Road, jolly carnival games at Gardens By The Bay, and the air filled with yuletide cheer - you’ll feel like you're in a "Jingle Bell Rock" dream.
From dazzling Christmas events to a carol-filled night at the Victoria Concert Hall, it’s the most wonderful time of the year to soak up some Christmas cheer.
So grab your mistletoe and hot cocoa because this Christmas celebration is ready to sleigh.
Whether you’re local or just visiting during the public holidays, there is no shortage of things to do in Singapore to make your Christmas Day merry and bright.
Christmas Events and Festivals
1. Visit Universal Studios Singapore (USS)
If you're looking to sprinkle some holiday magic on your December, Universal Studios Singapore is where the festive fun truly comes to life.
Wander through a wonderland of towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and the scent of festive food in the air - it’s holiday heaven for children and adults alike.
Now, if you want to kick your Christmas celebrations up a notch, why not make it extra special with the Universal Studios Singapore VIP Experience Pass? It’s the ultimate Christmas gift for kids, friends, and family who crave a little adventure with their holiday cheer.
Skipping the long lines (cue the happy dance) and getting priority access to all the top attractions in USS means no more impatient kiddos or tired feet.
Plus, with all the festive events happening, including character encounters, live shows, and snow-dusted streets, this Universal Studios Singapore VIP Pass guarantees you won’t miss a single magical moment.
It’s a Christmas gift they’ll remember long after the holiday season is over.
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269 (map)
Opening Hours: Sun-Wed: 10 am -5 pm, Thurs-Sat: 10 am -5 pm, 7:15 pm - 12:30 am
Directions: Take the Sentosa Express from VivoCity to Resorts World Station and take a 2-minute walk to Universal Studios Singapore
2. Experience the Christmas Train Show at Gardens by the Bay
Want a Christmas with twinkling lights, festive fun and a dash of magic? Gardens by the Bay is the place to be.
This December, the Christmas Train Show takes you on a heartwarming journey as we explore how trains bring families and friends home for Christmas around the world. The train installations celebrate the tradition of homecoming, connecting cultures and hearts through the joy of travel.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953 (map)
Opening Hours: Daily: 9 am - 9 pm
Directions: Take a 5-minute walk from Gardens by the Bay MRT Station
3. Explore Christmas Wonderland
And that’s not all. Christmas Wonderland is back from 29 Nov - 1 Jan. Experience ‘snowfall’ under sparkling lights, spot a giant Santa scaling the Supertree, and meet the Merry Bears trio.
Walk through an enchanted forest, chill in the peaceful Winter Solstice area, and try your luck at carnival games. With festive performances by local artists, holiday snacks, and twinkling lights, it’s a Christmas experience unlike any other.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953 (map)
Opening Hours: Daily: 6:30 pm - 11 pm
Directions: Take a 5-minute walk from Gardens by the Bay MRT Station
4. Enjoy Christmas at Changi Airport
At Changi Airport, the holiday season usually takes off with their annual Changi Festive Village and it’s a must-visit for locals and travellers alike.
Last year’s Festive Village featured a Candy Snow House, Candy Carnival and Candy Wonderland. Whether you’re exploring attractions or making memories with your kids, it’s a festive extravaganza you won’t forget.
There haven't been any Christmas events announced just yet for 2024, so keep a lookout for updates on Changi Airport's official and social media pages.
Aside from the Festive Village, Canopy Park at Jewel Changi Airport also has kid-friendly attractions like hedge mazes and bouncing nets so it’s the perfect place to spend Christmas Day for families.
Throw in the high-tech fun of the Changi Experience Studio and it’s going to be a Christmas your kids won't forget.
Canopy Park Address: Airport Blvd., Level 5 78, Singapore 819666 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs: 10 am - 9 pm, Fri-Sun: 10am - 10 pm
Directions: Take a 5-minute walk from Changi Airport Terminal 1 and head up to the 5th-floor of Jewel
Changi Experience Studio Address: 78 Airport Blvd., Singapore 819666 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 11 am - 8 pm, Sat-Sun: 10 am - 8 pm
Directions: Take a 10-minute walk from Changi Airport Terminal 3 and head up to the 4th floor of Jewel
5. Admire the Orchard Road Christmas Light-Up
The Orchard Road Christmas light-up transforms the shopping street into a wonderland with twinkling lights as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re a kid meeting Santa Claus or an adult soaking up the festive feels, there’s something for everyone.
This year, Orchard Road’s Christmas light-up known as Christmas on A Great Street is turning up the magic for families, with brand-new attractions that make it a must-see holiday experience. Imagine strolling under a canopy of twinkling lights as you explore the “firefly garden,” where beams of light dance like glowing fireflies, a nod to the orchards of old Singapore.
And every night, snow shows will sprinkle some wintry wonder, making it a festive treat for all ages. Little ones will love meeting roving mascots, while parents can enjoy pop-up stalls, tasty bites from food trucks, and the bar-hopping “passport” for a little extra holiday cheer.
Stretching 400 meters from Ion Orchard to Ngee Ann City, the light-up includes augmented reality projections that fill Hilton Singapore Orchard’s facade with sparkles, snowflakes, and fireworks.
Cap it all off at the Great Christmas Eve Street Party with live DJs and a countdown to Christmas that’ll have everyone dancing into the holiday spirit.
6. Board an Open-Top Double Decker Bus to See Christmas Views
Hop on the FunVee™ Christmas Light-Up Tour and make this Christmas in Singapore one to remember.
From Nov 9 to Jan 1, the open-top double-decker bus takes families and tourists through the heart of Orchard Road where Christmas lights and decorations turn the streets into a winter wonderland.
See the red and rose gold poinsettias sparkle in the lights as you drive under a festive canopy.
Fully guided and family-friendly, this tour has stunning views, cosy holiday feels and plenty of photo ops to keep the festive spirit glowing long after the ride.
7. Go to a 'Christmas Village'
The Great Christmas Village at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza is back and it’s a holiday wonderland you won’t want to miss.
From 10th November to 1st January, this festive village will be aglow with the grand 14-metre Mastercard Priceless Christmas tree, with a special 4-minute snowfall show every evening at 8 pm and 9 pm.
Kids will love the thrill of the Flying Dumbo, while parents can relax with an exclusive Orchard Road craft beer, Jingle Ale, brewed with Asa Brew.
The combination of festive fun, snowy moments and family-friendly rides makes it the perfect place to start your Christmas season, right in the heart of Orchard Road.
Can't get enough? An additional Great Christmas Village at Shaw House Urban Plaza will be open from Nov 8 to Jan 5, with carnival rides including the Euro Swing and Ferris wheel, claw machines, along with a new spin and catch game.
Whether you are a local or just visiting, Orchard Road always goes all out with Christmas events that bring the season to life. From rides and games to food trucks serving festive treats, it’s the perfect spot for families to spend the holidays together.
8. Attend a Christmas Concert
Don’t miss the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas Concert 2024 this December. Held at the iconic Victoria Concert Hall, this is the holiday event of the year for families. Handel’s Messiah, festive carols and magnificent choral performances by the Singapore Symphony Chorus and Children’s Choir.
Led by Associate Conductor Rodolfo Barráez, this 2-hour concert (with a 20-minute intermission for some festive merriment) is the way to spend the season. From grand orchestral moments to fun singalongs, it’s a festive journey you’ll all be humming into the new year.
Attractions To Visit for Christmas Fun
9. Slip and Slide at Snow City
When the holiday season hits Singapore, you don’t have to chase winter vibes when you can go to Snow City.
This winter wonderland brings Christmas to the tropics and a snowy playground where families can have winter fun without the cold of the outside world. Create snow angels, build snowmen and slide down icy slopes.
Suitable for kids and adults, Snow City captures the spirit of Christmas and provides a warm escape from the Singapore heat. Gather your loved ones, get into the holiday spirit and create memories that will last a lifetime in this snowy haven.
Address: 21 Jurong Town Hall Rd, Singapore 609433 (map)
Opening Hours: Tues-Fri: 10 am - 5 pm, Sat-Sun: 10 am - 6 pm
Directions: Take a 15-minute walk from Jurong East MRT Station
10. Hit the Ice at Kallang Ice World
Want a white Christmas but stuck in the Singapore heat? If you're up to try unique activities this festive season, look no further than Kallang Ice World’s Skating Rink.
Open to both locals and tourists to escape the heat, imagine twirling around at the ice skating rink. Glide into a winter wonderland where holiday magic comes alive on ice, surrounded by festive decorations that get you in the mood for the season.
So, get your skates and a couple of friends or family and make this Christmas cool (literally) at Kallang Ice World where memories are waiting to be created.
Address: 5 Stadium Walk, Level 3, Singapore 397693 (map)
Opening Hours: Daily: 9 am –11 am, 11:20 am – 1:20 pm, 2 pm – 4 pm, 4:40 pm – 6:40 pm, 7:20 pm – 9:20 pm
Directions: Take a 6-minute walk from Stadium MRT Station and head up to the 3rd floor of the Leisure Park Kallang mall
Holiday Activities
11. Check Out the Christmas Markets
Searching for Christmas events to get into the holiday spirit? Christmas markets such as Public Garden or the Capitol Singapore Christmas Market are the way to go.
Locals and visitors will be mesmerised as they wander through the stalls filled with one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs you can’t find anywhere else. Discover local artisans selling their wares alongside international goodies to add a global twist to your holiday shopping.
As you browse, indulge in festive treats and drinks – think mulled wine, gingerbread cookies and maybe even some hot chocolate to keep you warm.
So grab your friends and family and make a day of it – these Christmas events are perfect for finding that special gift for your loved ones while soaking up all the holiday cheer.
12. Make a Difference With Your Shopping
Locals and visitors will love the Sustainable Christmas Market on November 16-17, 2024 at South Beach. It’s not just a Christmas market, it’s one of those Christmas events that remind us of community and sustainability.
The 2024 market spans 30,000 square feet and is themed “Generation for Green” and “Kampung Kinship” showcasing Singapore’s culture and social responsibility.
And with KIDSforKIDS even the little ones can get involved, so get your friends and family to join in the holiday fun while supporting the environment and underprivileged children - now that’s a Christmas to remember.
Location: 38 Beach Rd, Singapore 189767 (map)
Opening Hours: 11 am - 7 pm
Directions: Take a 6-minute walk from Esplenade MRT
13. Create Your Own Christmas Gifts
Add some homemade magic to your Christmas gifts this year with hands-on fun.
Dive into leathercrafting with a Leather Craft Workshop at Crafune and create a chic, one-of-a-kind Melanie Bag, or customise a sleek mini wallet that makes a statement. Kids and adults alike can also bring out their inner hipster while crafting unique leather cardholders—ideal for stashing business cards or a few extra dollars for holiday shopping!
For a sweet twist, decoupage Christmas cookie jars (the art of decorating cookie jars with coloured paper, paint, gold leaf and more) that add a tasty touch to any gift. Perfect for families and travellers, these creative workshops combine festive fun with the joy of DIY gifting.
Unique Christmas Day Dinner Singapore Ideas
14. Indulge in Private Dining
Tired of traditional dishes for Christmas? Treat yourself to an unforgettable private dining experience that’s all the rage. Enter Proud Potato Peeler, a new hidden dining concept that will blow your mind.
Imagine a 7-course Greek-inspired omakase dinner in a swanky speakeasy-style setting - perfect for locals and travellers looking to level up their Christmas celebrations.
Or if you’re in the mood for something truly magical, Cloud Nine invites you into a dreamy space with a local flavour burst, hand-carved cloud lights and cutlery collected from their global adventures.
In the mood for French cuisine? Citronelle offers a 7-course French menu with an amuse bouche and pre-dessert, served in the comfort of your own home or at Chef Felicien’s cosy pad in the peaceful Opera Estate at East Coast.
With experiences like these, you can have a holiday season to remember without the crowds - why bother with all that when you can have all this magic at your table?
15. Have a Glam Picnic in the City or by the Seaside
Ditch the shopping malls and indulge in a luxurious picnic that’ll make your friends jealous.
Imagine you and your besties under the city lights or by the waves, having a fuss-free teepee party that’s glamorous. The salty sea breeze will keep you cool and it’s the perfect way to celebrate without the holiday hustle.
As for the food, you’ll get a gourmet vegetarian and halal picnic spread. Think cheese and cracker platter, cream cakes, tortilla chips, chocolate chip cookies, truffles and sparkling juice – all beautifully arranged with grapes for a pop of colour.
Don’t worry about the details, cutlery, serving plates, glasses and napkins are included so you can focus on good company and making memories.
Who needs the Christmas crowds when you can have this instead? Grab your picnic blanket and let the fun begin.
Wrap Up the Ho Ho Ho-liday Spirit!
As we sing our way through this festive season, we hope this has brought some cheer and ideas to your Christmas in Singapore! Whether you’re oohing and ahhing at the lights along Orchard Road or merrymaking at the Sustainable Christmas Market, there’s plenty of holiday magic right at your doorstep.
And if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or those idyllic holiday scenes from your favourite Christmas songs, don’t forget to check out our guide to the best places to travel to in winter. So go ahead, deck the halls, and let the fun begin for a Merry Christmas!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Singapore celebrate Christmas?
Singapore goes all out with colourful decorations, sparkling lights and a festive cheer that takes over the whole city. Streets, malls and attractions are decked out with lights and displays, perfect for the holidays.
From Christmas markets with special gifts and treats to Christmas events with live performances and parades, there’s lots to get you in the mood. And you can even find Santa in various places, spreading joy to kids and families.
Where to celebrate Christmas in SG?
You’ll find many places to do so in Singapore. Orchard Road is famous for its light-up and Christmas tree decorations, so it’s a must-go for holiday shopping and fun.
Gardens by the Bay has Christmas events, and Sentosa Island has festive activities and celebrations. Don’t miss Christmas markets at various places for special gifts, treats and atmosphere, perfect for families and friends.
Is Singapore a good place to visit at Christmas?
Absolutely. Singapore is a fantastic destination to visit during Christmas, thanks to its unique blend of cultural traditions and modern festivities.
The city sparkles with holiday cheer, and there’s something for everyone - whether you’re indulging in festive treats, shopping for gifts, or enjoying seasonal events. Plus, the warm weather makes it a delightful escape from colder climates, allowing you to experience Christmas in a whole new way.
Is Christmas an official holiday in Singapore?
Yes, Christmas is indeed an official public holiday in Singapore! Celebrated on December 25th each year, it’s a day for families and friends to come together, enjoy festive meals, and take part in holiday activities. Many businesses and schools close for the day, allowing everyone to soak in the joy and spirit of the season!