The best things to do in Singapore in December

Joining the list of best places to see Christmas lights and decorations is the 11th edition of Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Wonderland, Singapore’s biggest yuletide fair. It makes its much-anticipated return with an array of new immersive experiences, light displays, fun performances and festive celebrations for all to enjoy. 

Perennial favourite Blizzard Time gets an exciting enhancement in the form of a specially commissioned soundtrack by Singaporean composer-conductor Dr Darius Lim. At the same time, the magnificent 20-metre-tall Spalliera returns refreshed with a design inspired by the Italian Gothic architecture of the Orvieto Cathedral. That’s not all – plenty of photo opportunities await at Supertree Grove, with four times as many light displays as in previous editions. Find out more about what you can expect here.

Get a rare, up-close look at the iconic works of anonymous street artist Banksy at The Art of Banksy: Without Limits, debuting on our shores this December. For those who aren’t familiar, Banksy is the elusive street artist best known for turning graffiti into social commentary. Most recognisable for his stencilled works that surface in unexpected places, he tackles big issues – war, capitalism, politics – with a mischievous touch. Look forward to more than 170 of Banksy's artworks, including originals, lithographs, sculptures, video mapping installations, and immersive experiences. Tickets are available starting November 13, with exclusive pre-sale access for those who sign up for the waitlist here.

Spread the festive cheer at the highly anticipated Christmas on A Great Street. The annual affair returns with a stunning 14-metre-tall outdoor Christmas tree and several weekends of live performances, pop-ups, attractions, and more. This year’s Christmas extravaganza includes the ever-popular Great Christmas Eve Street Party, two Great Christmas Villages, must-see outdoor augmented reality (AR) projections, countdowns for Christmas and the New Year, and a new bar-hopping event. Don’t forget to get your phones out to view a special immersive AR projection of golden sparkles, snowflakes and fireworks raining down on the façade of Hilton Singapore Orchard. Find out more here.

The stunning Gardens by the Bay is set to get even more magical this festive season. For the first time in Singapore, all your Disney and Pixar favourites are coming to life at the floral wonderland’s new Garden of Wonder showcase. As you stroll through Gardens by the Bay’s Floral Fantasy, you’ll be greeted by eight stunning themed topiaries featuring lovable characters like Winnie the Pooh, Ariel and Flounder from The Little Mermaid, and Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc. Get in on the magic here.

Want the European Christmas experience without the price tag? Head to this year’s World Christmas Market for a night of festive fun by the waterfront. In addition to a whimsical display of giant candy canes and sparkling lights, you'll find a live choir performing against the backdrop of a sparkling Christmas tree.

Shop for festive goods at the pet-friendly craft market and snack on yummy international fare like bratwursts and mulled wine. Expect plenty of Christmas carolling, lively stage performances, fun dance numbers and theatrical acts from local performers, including the feel-good musical, ‘The Christmas Gift’. Commemorate the day by snapping pictures in the snow globe picture booths and other lively photo spots. There’s still plenty to see, so find out more about it here.

With 2024 finally coming to an end, take time out (pun intended) for some well-deserved rest and plenty of fun at Changi Airport’s new waterpark this holiday season. From now until February 16, 2025, head to Terminal 3’s Arrival Hall for some wet and wild fun at the first-ever space-themed inflatable Cosmic Hydropark. Along with picture-worthy elements like giant UFOs, towering rocket ships, and inflated astronauts, the park also features a giant water slide and exciting water obstacle courses with fun interactive play elements. Little ones won’t be left out – they’ll still get their dose of safe fun in a dedicated pool separate from the big kids. Passes are available to purchase via the Changi App here.

Nowhere else in Singapore celebrates the festive season like Gardens by the Bay. With a new Christmas Train Show set to debut on December 2, which pays homage to the beloved American tradition of building model railroads under Christmas trees for the holidays, Gardens by the Bay continues to prove why it's the place to be this holiday season. Watch as charming model trains chug past highly-detailed, miniature versions of iconic American landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Building, and more. Find out more about the experience here and explore more fun festive events here.

Matcha doughnuts, Ya Kun Kaya Toast doughnuts, sweet potato doughnuts – Mister Donut has done it all this year with all sorts of collaborations and interesting seasonal flavours. To end the year with a bang, the brand has collaborated with Pokémon to release two adorable treats. From December 1 to January 19 next year, get your hands on Pikachu doughnuts ($4.50) stuffed with chocolate whipped cream and coated with banana-flavoured chocolate. There’s also the Pon De Poké Ball ($3.50), a spin on the classic chewy Pon De Ring doughnut but coated with a berry-flavoured and smooth white chocolate glaze instead. Those looking to share can also get the special Pokémon bundle at $16. Find out more here.

It seems that our beloved airport is the place to be this holiday season, especially with the new The Gift of Disney Cruise Line at Jewel, inspired by the Disney Adventure cruise setting sail from our shores next year. From now until January 2, 2025, find Disney Cruise Line-themed installations, meet-and-greet opportunities, fun activities and more at Jewel’s Canopy Park. Frolic in the decked-out Hedge Maze or snap photos with all your favourite characters at stunning installations inspired by Disney, Pixar and Marvel characters. Don’t forget to redeem an exclusive Disney Cruise Line poster by collecting seven Disney Adventure medallion stamps scattered around Canopy Park. Find out what other activities you can expect at this Disney-lover’s paradise here.

New Bahru has been making waves as a home base for several exciting events and pop-ups. This Christmas, the lifestyle destination is debuting Merry Market, the very first instalment of Extra Curious Activities (ECA), a series of design-led fairs meant to spotlight emerging local brands. Here, explore a curated collection of over 30 homegrown labels across beauty, fashion, food, and more. For those feeling crafty, Merry Market offers hands-on activities for both the young and old. Find out more about Merry Market here.