Christmas Singapore Guide: 10 Must-Try Activities for a Ho Ho Ho-some Celebration

Nicholas Yeo

Last updated: 1 Oct 202410 minutes

christmas-singapore-activities-guide

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, Pelago by Singapore Airlines' guide ensures there is no shortage of things to do in Singapore to make your Christmas Day merry and bright.

Christmas Events and Festivals

Visit Universal Studios Singapore

If you're looking to sprinkle some holiday magic on your December, Universal Studios Singapore is where the festive fun truly comes to life! Last year, they decked the halls (and streets) with A Universal Christmas, featuring Santa’s North Pole Headquarters and the crowd-favourite W.I.S.H show, where elves from the Worldwide Institute of Santa's Helpers (W.I.S.H.) brought the Christmas spirit to life. Kids, friends, and families alike got to meet the lovable Minions and the ever-sparkly Trolls while being enchanted by live shows, character meet-and-greets, and even magical snowfall during the holiday season. Imagine wandering 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!

While we’re eagerly awaiting this year’s Christmas events, you can bet they’ll be just as spectacular. So, stay tuned, because whether you're a local or a traveller, Universal Studios Singapore is where Christmas memories are made! Now, if you really 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! Imagine skipping the long lines (cue the happy dance) and getting priority access to all the top attractions—no more impatient kiddos or tired feet. Plus, with all the festive events happening, including character encounters, live shows, and snow-dusted streets, this 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

Explore Christmas Wonderland and Christmas Train Show at Gardens by the Bay

Dreaming of a Christmas with twinkling lights, festive fun and a pinch of magic? Gardens by the Bay is the place to be! This December, the Christmas Train Show takes you on a heartwarming ride as we look at 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.

But that’s not all! Christmas Wonderland is back with its sparkling lights, carnival rides and European Christmas market. You can meander through the Supertree Grove, sipping hot holiday drinks while checking out festive treats and carnival games that will make the kid in you come out. And don’t forget the giant Christmas tree and decorations that will make every corner look like a holiday card come to life! Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this festive event in the middle of Singapore will get you in the holiday mood.

Address

18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953 (map)

Opening Hours

Daily: 5 am - 2 am

Directions

Take a 5-minute walk from Gardens by the Bay MRT Station

Enjoy Christmas at Changi Airport

Who says an airport can’t be fun? 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 - imagine walking past buskers, jugglers and a marching band playing holiday tunes while you munch on corndogs and nachos. Whether you’re riding carnival attractions or finding unique Christmas gifts, 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

Admire the Orchard Road Christmas Light-Up

The Orchard Road Christmas light-up is a must for the holiday season! This shopping street turns into a wonderland and has one of the most epic holiday light-ups you’ll ever see. Think twinkling lights as far as the eye can see and Insta-worthy moments at every turn! Whether you’re a kid meeting Santa Claus or an adult soaking up the festive feels, there’s something for everyone.

Orchard Road always goes all out with Christmas events that bring the season to life. From carnival rides and games to food trucks serving festive treats, it’s the perfect spot for families to spend the holidays together. Last year, revellers could even meet Santa Claus and took part in its first-ever Christmas Eve street party.

So, take a walk, enjoy the lights and feel the festive vibes that make Orchard Road a holiday tradition you’ll want to do every December!

Attractions To Visit for Christmas Fun

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 – what a twist to your holiday activities!

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: 10am - 6 pm

Directions

Take a 15-minute walk from Jurong East MRT Station

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! This skating wonderland is open to both locals and tourists to escape the heat - imagine twirling around in a winter wonderland at the ice skating rink. Glide into a festive fun zone where holiday magic comes alive on ice, surrounded by festive decorations that get you in the mood for the season!

As you skate, the festive atmosphere wraps around you like a hug and it’s the perfect place for holiday fun. And when you need a break from your skates, take a moment to enjoy the treats nearby – nothing beats some snacks after a spin on the ice! So get your skates and a couple of friends or family and make this Christmas cool 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.

Christmas Shopping

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.

But it’s not just about the 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. The atmosphere is contagious, with decorations sparkling and carols singing and you can’t help but smile. 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!

Make a Difference With Your Shopping

Locals and visitors will love the Sustainable Christmas Market on November 16-17, 2024 at South Beach. In 2023, over 80 vendors were selling items ranging from plant-based goodies to second-hand luxury as well as sustainable craft and fitness workshops. 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 its “Generation for Green” and “Kampung Kinship” themes showcase Singapore’s culture and social responsibility. And with KIDSforKIDS even the little ones can get involved, so get your friends and family and join in the holiday fun while supporting the environment and underprivileged children - now that’s a Christmas to remember!

Unique Christmas Day Dinner Singapore Ideas

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?

Experience a Glam Picnic in the City or by the Seaside

Ditch the shopping malls and indulge in a luxurious picnic in the city or by the seaside 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 Pelago by Singapore Airlines' 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 celebrate Christmas 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!

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Written by Nicholas Yeo

Veni, vidi, vici - Nicholas counts among his conquests, Europe, Scandinavia, the Balkans and more. A well-travelled wordsmith, he is an experienced writer for the travel industry & translates his travels into stories. Read about his next adventure here.

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