Shining a Light on the Night: An Overview of the Singapore Night Festival 2024

The Singapore Night Festival, the largest nighttime celebration in the city, returns to the Bras Basah, Bugis area for its 15th edition this year. Spanning three weekends from August to September, this year's theme is "Art of Play," delving into the notions of play and childhood, inspired by the region's rich history as the site of some of Singapore's earliest schools.

Explore the region's captivating stories and traditions through the festival's signature projection mapping displays, dazzling light installations by local and international artists, and a variety of exciting programs, culinary delights, and retail experiences across different Festival Villages. Attendees can also enjoy performances ranging from jazz to xinyao sing-alongs, creating an unforgettable celebration of art and culture!

Visitors can journey back in time with this year's Highlight Act titled "Wonder World," experiencing the nostalgic ambiance of Singapore from the 1950s to the 1970s. Curated by local artist SKL0, this unique theme park experience reflects on modern themes of nostalgia and heritage. Prepare to be enveloped in a world filled with amusement park rides, retro gaming kiosks, themed food and drinks from yesteryears, shows, and much more!

Highlights from the Singapore Night Festival

Source: Official Website of the Singapore Night Festival

This year's Singapore Night Festival embraces the theme "Art of Play," celebrating the rich legacy and culture of the Bras Basah, Bugis (BBB) area through the lenses of play, creativity, and childhood memories. Once the site of some of Singapore's earliest schools, including St Anthony's Convent, Anglo-Chinese School, St Joseph's Institution, and Tao Nan School, the region continues to host new educational establishments like Singapore Management University, the School of the Arts, and the University of the Arts Singapore (NAFA and LASALLE).

This year, the festival spans three weekends for a total of 16 days. The Singapore Night Festival will feature its inaugural Xinyao singalong concert at the Bras Basah Complex, along with the first late-night festival village at GR.ID, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees. A highlight of this year's event is the immersive act, "Wonder World - Enter the Machine of Nostalgia," which invites visitors into a carnival realm that embodies nostalgia. As BBB's largest nighttime celebration, the festival will offer a wide array of activities, from tours and workshops to engaging retail experiences.

The Singapore Night Festival showcases over 50 experiences, including performances, nightly installations, and three vibrant festival villages. The main festival village makes its return to the Singapore Management University (SMU) Green Campus for the first time since the pandemic, featuring food vendors like The Slurp Shack, Booze Affairs, and Praffles, along with performances at the SMU Arts Fest.

Kristal Melson, a 40-year-old graphic artist and Singaporean illustrator, is showcasing her first-ever inflatable sculptures in a nightlight installation on Jalan Bugis titled "Florescence." This piece symbolizes the periwinkle flower trade in Singapore.

The festival promises an unforgettable experience, filled with various events and art installations that illuminate the nights in Singapore. At the Singapore Night Festival, attendees will find a rich blend of art, history, and culture that connects the past with the present.

Activities to Enjoy at the Singapore Night Festival

Source: Official Website of the Singapore Night Festival

The Singapore Night Festival is an event for everyone, with several activities available for free. Enjoy breathtaking performances by local artists from 7:30 PM until the early hours of the morning. Don’t miss the exciting array of events that bring the Bras Basah.Bugis area to life at night. From mesmerizing art displays to cutting-edge interactive installations, this festival offers an experience you won't want to miss. Here are some key activities to check out during the festival:

1. Explore Wonder World: The Machine of Nostalgia

Wonder World – The Machine of Nostalgia, located at Cathay Green, is an imaginative creation by Sam Lo. Visitors can dive into the ambiance of a 1950s amusement park, inviting them to authentically reflect on their lives and dreams while fostering a sense of connection.

2. Soak Up the Vibrant Atmosphere at Festival Village

Relive the nostalgia from the 1960s to the 2000s through a variety of performances and visual displays. Attendees can marvel at exceptional works from local brands and installations inspired by the Toa Payoh dragon playground. Join in the fun at Pixel Paradise on Armenian Street, or unwind at Chijmes after exploring the Peranakan Museum. Enjoy the festive lights and joy at Dhoby Ghaut, along with a culinary trail and beer garden to elevate the cheerful experience.

3. Set Off on a Unique Journey of Art and Spirituality

Visit Waterloo Street to explore print and photography exhibitions. Attendees can enjoy a Getai performance, a staple of the Ghost Festival, or participate in tarot card readings. For fans of Mandarin music, the Bras Basah Complex hosts xinyao performances from the 70s and 80s. Join young campers and their crew on an adventure to discover the Dream Tree.

4. Experience Art with a Nostalgic Theme

One must-see installation is "Look Up, Sunbear!" at the YMCA, created by local artist Tobyato. This piece conveys themes of courage, wisdom, and environmental care for the younger generation. Additionally, explore the immersive neon murals at the Stamford Arts Centre, featuring illustrations from old textbooks and beloved childhood storybooks. Don’t miss the old bicycle at the National Design Centre, where pedaling activates projections of Chinese opera scenes on the wall.

5. Experience Projection Mapping

Projection mapping is a highlight for attendees of the Singapore Night Festival. Visitors can witness historic buildings come alive with breathtaking projection displays. This year, performances will take place at the Peranakan Museum and Chijmes. The Peranakan Museum's projections will showcase elements from its diverse collections, while Chijmes will feature vibrant and nostalgic childhood games and memories.

With the Singapore Night Festival 2024 spanning three weekends, seize the chance to join in the celebration of Singapore's arts and culture in a vibrant and joyful atmosphere. Bring your friends and family to enjoy a variety of performances, art installations, and unique experiences that await. Come and revel in the beauty of Singapore's arts and cultural heritage at this enchanting festival!

Flights to Singapore

Getting to the Singapore Night Festival Venue

Wondering how to reach the Singapore Night Festival location? You can start your journey from various points in Singapore using the MRT, heading to Bras Basah MRT Station. Simply exit through door B when you arrive.

For added convenience, consider booking a hotel in the Bugis or Bras Basah area, allowing you to easily walk to the festival. Use Mytour to secure your stay, or even book your flight to Singapore.

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