Joycelyn Yeow

May is shaping up to be an exciting month, with Polling Day kicking things off and Mother’s Day just around the corner. There are also events and activities to look forward to – from the iconic The Phantom of the Opera to the roar-some Jurassic World: The Experience. Plus, international stars like Taeyeon and The Click Five will be lighting up our stages. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this May.  RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

It’s a short work week ahead, with Vesak Day falling on May 12, 2025. In addition to the public holiday, there’s a line-up of limited-time food and exhibition pop-ups to check out, including the return of Sake Matsuri Singapore. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this week:  RECOMMENDED: The 101 best things to do in Singapore and New attractions in Singapore in 2025

It’s a bustling long weekend in Singapore, with Mother’s Day and Vesak Day falling back-to-back. Expect a lineup of musicals, festive markets, and movie nights to keep you and the family entertained. From a Mother’s Day-themed weekend market at Cosford Container Park to the debut of a multi-sensory VR film experience, here are the best things to do in Singapore this weekend:  RECOMMENDED: New openings and attractions in Singapore in 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

We’ve all heard the exciting news: pop icon Lady Gaga will be performing in Singapore this May. Whether you’ve secured tickets to this highly anticipated concert or not, there’s no shortage of Gaga-themed activities to help you celebrate. So, get ready to Just Dance and check out our list of the best Lady Gaga-themed events happening around the city.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore this May and The best concerts and music festivals in Singapore in 2025

Vesak Day is one of the most significant days on the Buddhist calendar, and marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Also known as Buddha Day, this sacred occasion is observed with several rituals and celebrations, as well as opportunities for reflection and giving. Here’s everything you need to know about this Buddhist festival, happening on May 12, 2025.  RECOMMENDED: The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Singapore

Celebrate Mother’s Day on May 11, 2025 with a range of unforgettable activities and experiences. From crafty hands-on activities and pamper sessions at the spa to fun shopping sprees and relaxing strolls around Singapore, these activities are the perfect way to honour the most important woman in your life. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate Mother's Day gift guide and the best restaurants to celebrate Mother's Day

Tanjong Pagar – meaning ‘cape of stakes’ in Malay – beautifully encapsulates Singapore’s evolution from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to a bustling trading port. Today, sleek and modern skyscrapers can be found around Tanjong Pagar, making it a modern metropolis that’s part of Singapore’s Central Business District. You’ll see white-collared workers hustling hard during the day, but that’s not to say that the area feels stuffy or clinical.  Heritage shophouses and colourful street art evoke a sense of nostalgia, with well-loved hawker stalls serving local grub. These traditional elements coexist alongside trendy new restaurants aiming for Michelin recognition and vibrant underground bars and clubs where locals unwind after a long day. ‘Nuff said – there’s much to see, do and eat here, so here’s the ultimate guide to Tanjong Pagar:  RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore and The best art exhibitions in Singapore you shouldn't miss

Nestled in the heart of Singapore, Balestier is where you’ll find tantalising local eats, heritage-rich locations and quirky shops. Whether you’re hunting for the city’s best bak kut teh or curious about the history behind its iconic shophouses, this storied neighbourhood is a treasure trove worth exploring.  Click here to find nearby Airbnbs RECOMMENDED: The 50 best cafés in Singapore and The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore

The big V-Day is reserved for spending quality time with your partner, from cosy cuddles at night to waking up to a stunning sunrise. Instead of staying at your usual pad, take a break from your everyday routine and spend the night at a home away from home. We’ve rounded up a list of the most romantic hotels in Singapore, so you can pamper your significant other with a much-needed staycation this Valentine’s Day.   RECOMMENDED: The best free date ideas in Singapore and The most romantic restaurants in Singapore

Mother’s Day, happening on May 11, 2025 is the perfect excuse to show Mum just how much she means to you – and we’ve rounded up a gift guide that does just that. Whether she’s due for a wardrobe refresh or a dose of well-deserved pampering, there’s something here to make her day extra special. RECOMMENDED: The best affordable afternoon tea in Singapore and The best floral arrangement classes in Singapore

Whether you're a regular runner or just looking to get moving, Singapore has no shortage of scenic trails that make your time outdoors worth it. From quiet nature trails to breezy coastal paths, we’ve rounded up some of the best running routes across the island. So lace up, head outside and get a dose of fresh air.  If you’re looking to soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while testing your fitness limits, sign up for Singapore T100 and challenge yourself on April 5 and 6 at Marina Bay. RECOMMENDED: The best nature trails in Singapore and The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore  

Don’t spend April like a fool cooped up at home – there’s plenty happening this month, plus a public holiday to look forward to: Good Friday on 18 April, 2025. The return of Tulipmania, PetExpo and vOilah! France Singapore Festival are just some of the events to look forward to. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this April:  RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore  

+Twelve beach club and Hendrick’s Gin are teaming up for Haus of Cabaret, a one-night-only Lady Gaga-inspired beach party. Expect an exciting mix of cabaret glitz and bold beachfront energy, fuelled by Hendrick’s Grand Cabaret gin. Drag queen DJ Lilith Blaque will also be spinning Gaga’s biggest anthems all night.

Rabbit’s Hole is turning up the glam for Mayhem Month, a Gaga-themed extravaganza happening from May 15 to 24. Expect a dazzling lineup of events including four Gaga era-themed parties, concert after-parties, karaoke nights, a Gaga-themed market, and a pool party at Mondrian Singapore Duxton. Fans can also catch performances by top impersonators like Lady Gagita and Chiang Weiii in this celebration of all things Gaga. 

Treat mum to a whimsical evening of crafts, music and mermaids at the Cosford Container Park. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts from local vendors and join a crepe flower-making workshop – everyone who attends the class gets a free blueberry muffin. Snap photos dressed as a mermaid after catching the live mermaid show, and enjoy live music from 7.30pm to 10.30pm as the sun sets.

Step into the future of cinema with Le Musk — the world’s first multi-sensory VR film experience, debuting in Singapore this May. Directed and scored by Academy Award-winner A.R. Rahman, the 37-minute immersive journey blends scent, motion, haptics, and sound for a full-bodied narrative. The showcase runs for a limited three-month stint at Golden Village at Suntec City from May 11, with only 50 seats available per day. Tickets are available here.

Local brand Beyond The Vines celebrates its 10th anniversary with the Dumpling District – a  tribute to its cult-favourite Dumpling Bags. This special experience invites shoppers to personalise their bags with bold, playful touches. For an additional $10, a BTV Doodle – available in two designs – can be added to your Dumpling Bag. You can also customise a beaded keychain charm and attach it to your bag. The Dumpling District is happening at the Beyond The Vines Design House, New Bahru, and Takashimaya S.C. stores from now until May 30, 2025. Online shoppers will receive a pre-assembled BTV Doodle and keychain with orders placed on June 1, 2025.

Local bedding brand SOJAO has launched its Art Pop-Up at its store at 251 Joo Chiat Road, running from May 10 to June 15. The pop-up features a curated selection of homeware and decoration by local artists. If you’re looking to refresh your living space, swing by and discover a range of unique finds – from Big Red Chilli’s vibrant, quirky artworks, to Rousong.ware’s one-of-a-kind ceramics, and Every Knitted Thing’s handmade trinkets like knitted coasters to brighten up your home.

The European Union Film Festival returns to The Projector at Cineleisure with a month-long showcase of award-winning films that celebrate Europe’s film industry and culture. This year’s edition features 26 screenings, from gripping dramas to striking animations. In honour of Singapore’s 60th birthday, the Six at Sixty segment spotlights six short films by young local filmmakers, followed by a post-show dialogue. Upcoming films include Waltzing Matilda, Close, The Girl with the Needle, and My Grandfather’s Demons. More information can be found here.

Local creative community GOFY presents Melting Thresholds, a group exhibition spotlighting four emerging Southeast Asian artists – Shu and Money Wang from Malaysia, Nina Sach from Thailand, and Jaeyyelle from Singapore. Running from May 17 to September 14, 2025 at Sweet Cheeks, the show explores dreamlike spaces through a series of quirky artworks that reflect on identity, memory, and transformation. The exhibition also features limited-edition gelato flavours by Sweet Cheeks, and all artworks are available for purchase on-site. 

K-pop group NCT Wish is bringing their 2025 Asia Tour Log to Singapore for a one-night-only performance at Arena @ Expo Hall 7. The six-member band is known for its dynamic stage presence and sharp choreography, and it has been rumoured that the K-pop stars will showcase their latest hits including Wish, Steady and Sail Away in the upcoming concert. Tickets are available via the Ticketmaster website. 

Step into the Indian Heritage Centre this weekend for free and uncover 30 newly revealed artefacts. Join the spirited Soapbox Gallery Tours, where storytellers share the tales behind these treasures. Families can get hands-on with fun craft stations, join a kid-friendly colouring contest, and enjoy light refreshments throughout the day. Plus, the first 1,000 visitors will receive a special IHC10 limited-edition tote bag.

Treat Mum to a special celebration at the Lego Mother’s Day Pop-up at Suntec City. On May 10 and 11, mums can redeem a free Lego rose stalk from 3pm-4pm. Alternatively, from May 10 to 12, both you and Mum can join the hands-on activities, where you can build your own LEGO rose and daisy set to take home as a lasting gift – a bouquet that will never wilt. More information can be found here.

If you're into anime, manga, games or J-pop, Doujin Market 2025 is the place to be. With nearly 200 booths to browse, the event brings together local creators showcasing original fan art, keychains, stickers, photo cards, badges and more — all inspired by popular anime titles and video games like Genshin Impact and Love and Deepspace. The event is also bringing back the popular game area where you can play Dungeons & Dragons with fellow attendees. More information can be found here. 

Fans of Korean cuisine have plenty to be excited about this year, with beloved South Korean bakery Standard Bread and fast food chain Lotteria both gearing up to make their Singapore debut. In the meantime, those eager for a taste of South Korea can head to the newly opened Lotte Mart Express. Photograph: FairPrice Singapore’s first Lotte Mart Express is now open inside FairPrice Xtra at VivoCity. Though compact, the space is packed with a wide range of Korean treats and essentials. Pick up café latte drinks, stock up on the ever-popular banana milk, and browse through various seaweed snacks. You can even snag the XL ramyeon packs here. Photograph: FairPrice It’s not just grab-and-go snacks either – you can dine in too. Head over to the ramyeon cooking station to fix that MSG craving. Choose from a variety of instant noodles, including the fiery Buldak ramen series, and enhance your meal with optional toppings such as cheese, sausages, fishballs, and crabsticks are available at an additional charge.  Photograph: FairPrice There’s also a mini kitchen serving hot, freshly prepared South Korean street food including kimbap, spicy dakgangjeong, eomuk, and rose tteokbokki. Do note that the food sold here is not halal-certified. Photograph: FairPrice Don’t forget to pop by the self-service photobooth while you’re here. While it’s not as elaborate as the ones you see in Myeongdong, having a mini photoshoot with your haul is a fun way to commemorate your time here.  Lotte Mar

Mandai Wildlife Reserve is levelling up its offerings once again. Alongside the upcoming luxurious Mandai Rainforest Resort, the group is also launching a brand-new campsite – Colugo Camp. This marks the first of two campsites set to open at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, offering guests the chance to stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in nature and the wild. In keeping with the theme, Colugo Camp features 20 safari-style tents – all air-conditioned and designed to comfortably accommodate up to four guests. Each tent includes a queen-sized bed and bunk beds, making it ideal for families with little ones. There’s even free Wi-Fi, and a private patio so you can enjoy the outdoors in the privacy of your tent. Guests will have access to communal bathrooms and a dining hall – great for sharing a meal and mingling with fellow campers. The stay also includes meals and guided tours within the wildlife parks. Colugo Camp is set to open in the third quarter of 2025. Bookings are not open yet, but interested parties can register their interest via the Mandai Wildlife Reserve website. READ MORE NoMad Hotel by Hilton to open in Singapore with 15-storey waterfall, infinity pool and cliff-like facade Geneo: New lifestyle hub in Singapore with cathedral-style architecture, F&B options, green spaces and more i Light Singapore 2025 is back with 17 light installations from 20 artists

Fans of Tinashe are probably Getting No Sleep from this latest news: the R&B singer-songwriter is bringing her Match My Freak 2025 World Tour to Singapore this August, for one night only.  Best known for her bold stage presence and genre-blending sound, the Nasty singer (that’s a song title, not a description) has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry – including Britney Spears, Usher, Travis Scott and Charli XCX. When is Tinashe performing in Singapore?  Tinashe will be performing in Singapore on August 21, 2025 for one night only.  Where is Tinashe’s concert in Singapore?  Her concert will be held at the Capitol Theatre.  What are the ticket prices for Tinashe’s concert in Singapore? Cat 1 standing tickets are priced at $138, while Cat 2 tickets are priced at $118.  When do ticket sales start for Tinashe’s concert in Singapore?  General ticket sales start from May 15, 2025 at 11am via Ticket Master’s website.  READ MORE i Light Singapore 2025 is back this May, featuring 17 light installations from 20 artists Gelato Messina Review: Australia’s famous gelato chain lands in Singapore Good news: Arts hub 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace’s lease will be extended until March 2028

We’ve recently bid farewell to local fashion label The Closet Lover and Japanese retailer NBC Stationery & Gifts – and now, another name is joining the list. Beloved Japanese department store Isetan will be shuttering its Tampines Mall outlet after 30 long years of operation. A familiar name to many Singaporeans, Isetan has been a go-to for everything from homeware and groceries to clothing and footwear. The news was announced via Tampines Mall’s official Facebook page, revealing that the store will close its doors in November 2025. No reason was given for the closure, and there’s been no word on which tenant might take its place. This isn’t the first Isetan outlet to close in recent years – the Westgate store closed in 2020, followed by the Parkway Parade branch in 2022. Once the Tampines Mall outlet ceases operations, only two Isetan department stores will remain in Singapore: at Shaw House and NEX. Despite this, there’s plenty to look forward to, including the opening of the new lifestyle hub Geneo, the lease extension of Pearl’s Hill Terrace, and the upcoming launch of Weave at Resorts World Sentosa. READ MORE Gelato Messina Review: Australia’s famous gelato chain lands in Singapore Singapore’s first Lotte Mart Express is now open with popular Korean snacks, street food and ramyeon bar Popular Korean fast food chain Lotteria to open its first Singapore outlet in 2025

Singapore’s mega light art festival returns to brighten up the cityscape. The much-anticipated i Light Singapore is back this May and June, and it’s shaping up to be its most dazzling edition yet. This year’s theme, To Gather, unites 17 light art installations created by 20 local and international artists. The works will be spread across Marina Bay, South Beach, and new locations along the scenic Singapore River and bustling Raffles Place. Full details of the installations are still under wraps, but a few highlights have been teased. New exhibits include the Bridge of 1,000 Dreams, which will see Cavenagh Bridge transformed by 1,000 hand-painted bamboo poles, each glowing under UV light. Another new installation is the Reverse Waterfall at the UOB Plaza. As the name suggests, the visuals mimic a waterfall flowing in the opposite direction, inviting visitors to reflect and uncover different perspectives of reality.  Photograph: i Light Singapore Over at Raffles Place Park is where you’ll find The Guardians, an inflatable garden that boasts images of local flora in bright and beautiful colours.   Photograph: i Light Singapore   Another notable piece, Take a walk through the meadow with me, is a floral installation by a group of Singaporean artists. It features 300 flowers crafted from recycled acrylic scraps, brought to life with pressure-sensitive lights that respond to movement. Musical notes play in the background, adding a dreamlike quality as visitors wander through th

Running a business in Singapore is no walk in the park – which makes The Closet Lover’s (TCL) 17-year run all the more impressive. But even good things come to an end, and the beloved homegrown fashion label has announced that it will officially close on June 15, 2025. Founded by sisters Bertilla and Brianna Wong, TCL began in 2007 as a humble blogshop run out of their bedroom, with the duo packing orders by hand. Over the years, the brand gained a following for its wide range of apparel, from casual staples to chic occasion wear, offering styles that are versatile for anyone and everyone. TCL soon became a favourite among local shoppers and eventually opened three physical stores in Orchard, Bugis, and Tampines. Today, the brand boasts over 137,000 followers on Instagram. The decision to close down was a personal one. Both sisters have been diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. While Bertilla's condition has remained under control, Brianna’s health has recently deteriorated. The sisters have chosen to prioritise rest and recovery, stepping away from the business to focus on Brianna’s well-being. Although no future plans for TCL have been confirmed, fans can look forward to one final collection that is set to launch on May 25. In the meantime, TCL will continue its weekly livestreams. From May 19, shoppers will no longer be able to earn cashback or points, and all existing rewards must be redeemed by June 15. Do not

Singapore’s wet weather streak is showing no signs of letting up. After monsoon surges in March and thunderstorms in April, the first half of May is set to bring more heavy downpours and thundery showers. According to the National Environment Agency, inter-monsoon conditions are expected to persist into early May 2025. Expect thundery showers in the afternoons, some of which may stretch into the evenings. Sumatra squalls are also forecast to bring gusty winds and thunderstorms in the mornings on certain days. But there’s no need to hibernate indoors just yet. Our monsoon survival guide is packed with practical tips, including how to check for flood-prone areas before heading out, to help you make the most of the rainy season.  READ MORE i Light Singapore 2025 is back this May, featuring 17 light installations from 20 artists The Balloon Museum is making its way to Marina Bay Sands Singapore this June Five exciting new restaurants in Singapore to check out this May 2025

Pop Air – Art is Inflatable by The Balloon Museum is set to blow us away, transforming Marina Bay Sands into a playground of giant inflatables, trippy lights, and interactive installations from June 7 to August 31, 2025. Hailing all the way from Rome, this immersive exhibition is packed with jaw-dropping installations, from towering inflatables that fill the space to delicate sculptures that redefine what air can do. Expect interactive and digital pieces that blur the lines between reality and imagination, proving that inflatable art is anything but full of hot air.  Photograph: ENESS This isn’t your typical ‘hands-off’ gallery either – at Pop Air – Art is Inflatable, visitors will become part of the art. Weave through balloon labyrinths and dive into balloon pools, snapping plenty of photos along the way. The exhibition guarantees something for everyone – kids will love the hands-on fun, while grown-ups can appreciate the mind-bending creativity in store.  Photograph: Hyperstudio For those who like a little history with their art, a special video gallery traces the rise of Inflatable Art – from the early air-filled experiments of hot air balloon inventors Montgolfier brothers, to Jeff Koons’ iconic Balloon Dog. Photograph: MOTOREFISICO The artists that are part of this are all heavyweights in the world of inflatable art. There’s Cyril Lancelin, whose massiveKnot structure is part maze, part optical illusion; Karina Smigla-Bobinski, who mixes science and creativity with

Whether you cross the Causeway regularly or are plotting a Vesak Day weekend escape, here's something to get excited about – YouTrip is offering free shuttle bus rides from Singapore to Johor Bahru. To mark the recent launch of its Malaysian Ringgit wallet in mid-April, YouTrip has rolled out complimentary shuttle services to Mid Valley Southkey in JB. The promotion is currently ongoing, with the final rides operating over the weekend of May 10 to 11, 2025. Where and when are the pick-up and drop-offs for the free shuttle bus service by YouTrip? The shuttle service departs from Opp Kranji MRT bus stop and drops passengers off at the North Entrance of Mid Valley Southkey. Services run from 9am to 9.30pm at 30-minute intervals.  Passengers are advised to arrive at the pick-up point at least 10 minutes before their scheduled departure. Do present both your booking confirmation email and the Y-Number from the back of your YouTrip card for verification. Who is entitled to book the free shuttle bus service by YouTrip? The shuttle service is open to YouTrip users with a valid account. Seats must be pre-booked and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Each user may reserve only one seat per time slot for each leg of the journey. All passengers are required to book seats for both legs of the journey – meaning you will have to take the bus to enter and return from JB. Ensure that you register using the email address linked to your YouTrip account. A confirmation email will

Missed the Pink Moon in April? No worries, as another celestial spectacle is just around the corner. The annual Eta Aquarids meteor shower is set to light up the skies tomorrow, making it the perfect excuse to gather your mates and plan a night of sky gazing. What is the Eta Aquarids meteor shower?  The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is named after its radiant point – the area in the sky from which the meteors appear to originate – near the constellation Aquarius and the star Eta Aquarii. Known for their incredible speed, these meteors enter Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 65 kilometres per second, leaving glowing trails of debris that light up the night sky. These streaks may last for mere seconds or linger for several minutes, so keep your eyes peeled for this magical visual experience. How often does the Eta Aquarids meteor shower occur?  This annual meteor shower occurs around early May each year. When will the Eta Aquarids meteor shower be visible in Singapore?  In 2025, it will be active between April 20 and May 21, with peak visibility expected from the night of May 6 and 7. In Singapore, the best viewing time is around 3am, when the sky is darkest and activity is at its highest.  Where is the best place to view the Eta Aquarids meteor shower in Singapore?  The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is best viewed from open spaces away from city lights. Locations such as Changi Bay Point and Upper Seletar Reservoir are popular among stargazing enthusiasts for their relatively unob

This just in: Polling Day for the Singapore General Election will happen on May 3, 2025. This comes after Nomination Day on April 23, 2025 and Cooling-off day on May 2, 2025 where no campaigning by any parties is allowed. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, here's everything you need to know about this significant national event.  When is Singapore's GE2025 Polling Day? This year's Polling Day falls on May 3, 2025. The announcement follows the dissolution of Parliament by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on April 15, 2025. Polling stations across the country will be open from 8am to 8pm, and all eligible voters must cast their vote at their designated polling station. Election results are typically announced after midnight once the polls close. What and when is Cooling-Off Day? Cooling-Off Day – always observed the day before Polling Day – falls on May 2 this year. Campaigning comes to a complete stop, both online and offline, with no new election advertising allowed from candidates, parties, or authorized third parties. This means that there will be no door-to-door visits, walkabouts and hosting of election meetings by the candidates. This is to give voters time to reflect and make a clear-headed decision on Polling Day.  Who can vote in Singapore's GE2025?  Voting is compulsory for all eligible Singaporeans. To check if you're on the electoral roll, head to the Elections Department Singapore website and log in using your Singpass. Alternatively, yo

Step through a vine-covered entrance and into the realm of Wonders of Nature. This is New Art Museum Singapore’s first immersive exhibition made just for kids and the young at heart. Curated by local creative Warren Wee, this showcase brings together works from eight international and local artists: Go Yayanagi, Go Ogawa, Yuji Kanamaru, Masato Inagaki, Osamu Watanabe, Jackson Tan and Jesse Franklin. Expect bold colours, textured art, and plenty of interactive moments to get stuck into. Photograph: Joycelyn Yeow for Time Out Singapore First stop: the Animal Kingdom. Whimsical sculptures of animals such as gorillas, tigers and even unicorns, are assembled from candy-coloured pieces. It’s a feast for the eyes and the fingers, with tactile textures inviting guests to reach out and explore. Don’t be shy to get up close with each sculpture – spot the various pieces embedded into the animals.  Photograph: Daniel Iskandar Bounce your way over to the Canyon of Cuddles by Art-Zoo – a playground-style zone filled with giant inflatable cacti you can perch on, plus a small ball pit to dive into. Hidden somewhere inside is a single cactus-branded ball. Find it, and you’ll earn yourself a gachapon token to redeem for mini collectables inspired by the artwork here – like a tiny cactus toy. Photograph: Daniel Iskandar Then, ‘swim’ deep into a digital ocean filled with larger-than-life fish. These marine creatures are projected across the space, with each image generated uniquely so no t