The best Singapore autumn events

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Alex Birungi
Panorama of the Singapore skyline as sun rises with green space, the river and Marina Bay Sands

Wedged between the high jinks of summer and the sheer exuberance of the Christmas period, the autumn can get forgotten about. However, the months of September, October and November in Singapore have some incredible things going on. What Singapore autumn events can you expect to see?

How about the heady mix of grand prix celebrations, Deepavali (Diwali) and Halloween? And that’s just for starters! Stick with us as we explore all the autumn events you can experience in Singapore.

The Singapore Grand Prix

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Always one of the most anticipated races of the year, Formula One’s Singapore Grand Prix gets gear heads from across the world into a frenzy of motor racing eagerness. Witnessed by around a quarter of a million people trackside, the race is one of the biggest events in Singapore’s autumn calendar.

The first night race to make the Formula One season, and one of just a couple of street circuits, it sees the world’s foremost racing drivers battle it out on the same roads that usually see peak time traffic jams. The race may only be for professional drivers, but you can get a sense of what’s required by checking out Let’s Go Bike’s Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour.

But beyond the three days of racing, totaling some 12 hours of action, the Singapore Grand Prix gets its own season. Lasting ten days, it offers up entertainment even to those who haven’t yet caught the racing bug. That’s due to around 90 shows by some of the top names in entertainment. Previous editions have seen the Black Eyed Peas, Westlife and TLC rock the main stage.

Singapore’s unmissable autumn cultural festivals

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What the Singapore Grand Prix is to motor racing, the Mid Autumn Festival is to cultural events in the country. A key celebration for Singaporeans with Chinese heritage, the festival is celebrated across much of Asia.

Marking the end of the traditional harvest period, look out for streets strewn with paper lanterns and stalls selling mooncakes. Specific to the celebrations, authentic versions of these delectable pastries are made with a red bean or lotus seed paste filling. However, you can now find everything from chocolate to champagne fillings when in Chinatown. Whilst there, don’t miss the chance to join a tea appreciation experience in a charming tea house.

A Hindu festival celebrating the victory of light over darkness, Deepavali is another fantastic Singapore autumn event. Head to Little India to soak up the color, sights and sounds, which include full-sized model elephants and peacocks (symbolizing abundance and wisdom).

You’ve also got the chance to catch displays of traditional dancing and the attractive streetside light displays. They begin appearing several weeks before the big day itself at the end of October. This gives visitors plenty of time to shop for flower garlands, admire the glitter of gold at jewelers and drink a mug of teh tarik (pulled milk tea) whilst awaiting a spot at a henna tattooist’s!

Things to do in Singapore in October

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For many, October is unapologetically the month of Halloween. But before this ghoulish festival comes around, Singapore sees the arrival of Oktoberfest. It doesn’t have a grand history in the country like Singapore Mid Autumn Festival or Deepavali. But we can’t think of much better than sipping a cool lager after a busy day of sightseeing.

Bars and restaurants participating in the revelry aren’t hard to find. When still in the mood, why not take a tour of the Tiger Brewery and discover what made this local brew a bestseller the world over.

Halloween lovers will be dying to explore Singapore towards the end of October. Head over to the pleasure island of Sentosa, off Singapore’s southernmost point, for Universal Studios Singapore’s annual Halloween Horror Nights. As well as haunted houses, expect themed laser tag games, a nightmare of ghostly goings on and plenty of additional surprises.

Elsewhere, the luxury tall ship the Royal Albatross turns ghost ship for a seaborn five-course monster-themed dinner, fancy dress competition and special access tours. If its desserts that really interest you, turn your attention instead to the Museum of Ice Cream. Temporarily renaming itself the Museum of I Scream, you can get your fill of fab flavors alongside a myriad of ghoulish festivities.

Singapore autumn events in November

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Starting in October but continuing into November, the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) brings the world of anime and Japanese thrillers to Singaporean screens. Launched way back in 1983, the JFF is one of Singapore’s longest running film events. Its curated selection of movies is designed with a blend of classic and contemporary screenings, meaning there’s almost certainly something for everyone.

That said, Francophiles might instead prefer November’s Violah France Singapore Festival. Organized with Gallic flare by Singapore’s French embassy, almost every day of the month has at least one event taking place, from exhibitions and concerts to food markets and sporting feats.

Art lovers can also celebrate with the Singapore Biennale, taking place each autumn and winter every second year. Created as an outlet for the country’s contemporary art scene, it features around 50 artists from countries as diverse as Iraq and Indonesia. Their work is displayed at the Singapore Art Museum.

What to pack for autumn in Singapore

Autumn in Singapore is still warm, with lows averaging 25°C and highs of around 32°C. Humidity levels are also quite high, meaning the bulk of your packing list should consist of summer friendly items such as loose-fitting trousers and tops.

At the same time, October and November in particular see heavy showers roll across the island in the afternoons or early evenings. Make sure you’ve got an umbrella to hand (raincoats are simply too hot to bother with) and plan to spend these hours at one of Singapore’s indoor attractions.

Singapore’s autumn events and top attractions await!

Singapore is packed to bursting with autumn events and has a long list of major attractions. You can keep your vacation budget under control by traveling with Go City. Our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes give holders reduced admission to attractions across the island, from museum entry to the top tours.

Alex Birungi
Go City Travel Expert

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Best brunch in Singapore

Brunch: The most indulgent meal of the day. Maybe you skipped breakfast because of visiting an early attraction, or maybe you slept in after sampling the incredible nightlife. Whatever the reason, you deserve a decadent dish to recharge your batteries and get you fired up for more exploring. We’ve listed our top 10 places in Singapore to grab brunch. Bon appetite! Boomerang café and bistro Singapore Resting on the Singapore River you’ll find Boomerang Cafe and Bistro, serving fresh, authentic Australian cuisine day and night. Australians know that to keep your energy levels up you need some good grub, and there’s plenty of that at Boomerang. With opening hours between 6am and 3am, you’ve got plenty of time to explore the menu. Breakfast runs until 11:30, after which it switches to the lunch menu. There’s a vast selection of breakfast options, including light and airy pancakes, to a fully Ozzy steak and eggs. The lunch menu contains a vast array of starters and sharing platters, although we’d recommend the garlic prawn and mango salad for the perfect brunch meal. If you’re craving more Boomerang action, Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 5pm until 8pm, and 2pm until 8pm on Sundays. Kinki Restaurant + Bar If bold Japanese cuisine is more your thing, try Kinki Restaurant + bar. Found near Marina Bay and Raffles Place, the views from the rooftop bar are breathtaking. The food’s a delight for all your senses, with bright colorful dishes created using exquisite ingredients. While we could talk about the menu all day long, the real show-stopper is the bottomless brunch. Available Saturdays and public holidays, the all-you-can-eat brunch includes fresh sashimi slices, a variety of maki rolls, various mains, and much more. For $68 you can feast on the smorgasbord of delights, and for an additional $38, you can add unlimited Sake, Beer, Prosecco, or Shochu to the mix. LAVO Restaurant & Rooftop Bar Enjoy classic Italian American food and hand-crafted cocktails from the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The view from the outdoor balcony is worth the visit alone. The prices reflect the exclusive location, with the Free Flow Dom Pérignon & Buffet Menu coming in at $398 per person. A seafood feast awaits with fresh lobster, tiger prawns, crab, and enough dessert options for even the sweetest of teeth. We also recommend ordering a slice of the 20-layer cake. You’ll thank us later. Carrotsticks and Cravings If healthy living is your thing, Carrotsticks and Cravings is the destination for you. Using the freshest ingredients and packed with superfoods, they cater to all dietary requirements. There’s no poor option on the menu, as everything looks and tastes delicious. The signature smashed avocado toast is a great start, with a baked chia parfait or superfood salad providing an excellent backup plan. If gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and vegetarian-friendly foods make your stomach smile, add Carrotsticks and Cravings to your brunch itinerary. Butcher’s Block If you’re a carnivore who loves their meat flame-grilled, you may find your dream brunch at Butcher’s Block. Raffles Arcade houses this avant-garde steakhouse where fire is the star of the show, whether you’re ordering meat or fish. Smoking with wood, slow roasting, or grilling directly over embers, Butcher’s Block knows how to extract every drop of taste out of their meals. Brunch is available on the weekends with a mouth-watering a la carte menu, or an option to upgrade to the Sommelier’s Selection which includes a 90-minute high-end wine-tasting experience. Waffle Place If you’re looking for somewhere unique or unusual to enjoy brunch, look no further than Waffle Place in Singapore. This halal cafe serves premium waffles with a multitude of toppings. With a variety of interesting flavor combinations, you’re unlikely to have the same waffle twice. There are some ‘classic’ topping options such as apple pie or ice cream, as well as more unusual toppings like duck in kerutuk sauce, or crispy chicken with a fried egg, spicy mayo, and maple syrup. A truly unique experience awaits you at Waffle Place, Singapore. Astor Bar Astor Bar at The St. Regis Singapore offers an adult-only cocktail brunch every Saturday, but don’t worry - it’s not just a liquid lunch. A luxurious platter of seafood on ice, including crab, oysters, and shrimp, ensures a decadent brunch to remember. Add in a soundtrack of live jazz music performed by the resident band and you’re only missing one thing; cocktails. Whatever your tipple of choice, it’s on the menu at Astor Bar. A Sip of Gilded Age, the iconic Chilli Padi Mary, or a chocolate martini are just a tiny sample of the cocktails on offer. Luckily, if you’re spoiled for choice and tormented by indecision, the helpful mixologists will guide you through the flavor profiles. Red House Seafood With influences from the Malay, Indian, and Peranakan traditions, Red House Seafood provides a brunch filled with exquisite Singaporean seafood dishes. Chili crab and satay chicken are classic Singapore mains, but here they’re handled with finesse and elevated to new levels. As one of Singapore’s oldest seafood restaurants, they know how to treat diners to something special. The Dim Sum lunch buffet allows you to choose from a menu of 50 items, including delicious steamed fish, prawn rolls and, of course, the delectable dim sums. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel
Overhead view of colored warehouses and the river at Clarke Quay in Singapore
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Things to do in Clarke Quay

Despite its central location and world class airport, Singapore is more than just a place to pass through – it’s a buzzing, cosmopolitan city with many contrasting districts to explore. While the Marina may be where most people head first, if you’ve got time then it’s worth detouring off the main tourist trail for the historic and pretty waterfront promenades of Clarke Quay. Named for the 19th century Governor Sir Andrew Clarke, this slice of Singapore forms part of the Singapore River Precinct and was originally lined with warehouses and docks for the moving and unloading of goods up and down the river. It’s since been renovated and revamped, and now serves as a lively open-air entertainment and commercial district popular with locals and tourists alike. While you’re there, take the opportunity for: Retail therapy A historical bicycle tour A river cruise A walk to Merlion Park Nightlife Exploring Fort Canning Park Chinatown Retail therapy Clarke Quay Central is the first place you should head if you’re in the mood for a bit of bargain hunting. It’s an enormous riverside mall with five levels to explore, so whether you’re on the hunt for the latest fashion or need to stock up on ‘I went to Singapore’ shirts for the folks at home, this is the place to come. There are plenty of restaurants with riverside views, and if you haven’t filled your bags by lunch time there’s the Riverside Point Shopping Center and the Clarke Quay Shopping Mall nearby. Historical bicycle tour If you like to combine your history with movement, or find it all easier to take in when someone’s explaining it to you, how about joining a four-hour historical bike tour of the city? You’ll get to know the city from a local’s perspective by visiting a residential area and a local market, as well as learning about the city’s history through its districts, museums and monuments. Your tour will include a stop at Clarke Quay, so be sure to ask your guide for some hot tips on the best shops and restaurants to come back to! River Cruise One of the best ways to explore a riverside district is from the water itself – the same way the bargemen and dock workers would have done in the days of the warehouses. Take a break from shopping and exploring by joining a River Cruise in a wooden bumboat – traditionally used to ferry goods from ship to shore – and relax as you wind up the river from Clarke Quay to the Marina and back again, if you like. Sit back, enjoy the fresh river breezes and discover that there’s more to the Lion City than Supertrees and skyscrapers. If you time it right, you’ll be able to watch the sunset from the water. Walk to Merlion Park If you feel the need to stretch your legs, and want to see a bit of everything, take yourself on a self-guided tour from the Quay to Merlion Park. It’s about a mile, though a couple of diversions and photo stops will stretch it out a bit. Start at Clarke Quay Central and head across Elgin Bridge to cross the river. Stop and admire the painted warehouses on either side, then divert north for a glimpse of the rainbow-colored (and somewhat unmissable) Old Hill Street Police Station. From here you can either cross back and walk along Boat Quay, or take the northern side past the former Parliament House (now the Arts House), the Victoria Concert Hall and the marble statue of the city’s founder Sir Stamford Raffles, believed to mark the spot where he first landed in 1819. You’ll also pass the Asian Civilizations Museum, which has an extensive collection of artifacts showcasing the continent’s major religions. From there, cross over the historic Cavenagh Suspension Bridge to Merlion Park, where you’ll find the half-lion, half-fish emblem of the city presiding over a busy square on Marina Bay. Nightlife Clarke Quay may be a busy retail hub during the day, but it’s in the evening when things really start to come to life. Even overnight the temperature in Singapore barely dips below 75 degrees, and it can be humid, so the riverfront is the perfect place for a refreshing evening stroll. It’s lively here most nights, and alfresco dining choices include Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Thai and Western cuisines. After dinner there are plenty of bars and clubs that will be buzzing with activity – the famous club Zouk, in a converted warehouse, always has an impressive line-up of guest DJ’s, there’s a Holey Moley if you fancy a round of mini-golf, or for a late-night snack try Hai Di Lao, which serves a traditional Hot Pot until the very early hours. Fort Canning Park Cross over to the northern bank of the river and not far away you’ll find the enormous Fort Canning Park, a grassy hilltop which often hosts concerts and plays, but during the day is a history-hunter’s playground. You’ll find Raffles House and Garden, the Fort Canning Lighthouse and the Battlebox, which is an underground bunker and network of tunnels that was used as a hub for coordinating war efforts in the 1930s and 40s. If you find the park a little overwhelming or need a fun activity to do with your friends and family, try a Fort Canning Puzzle Hunt – play as a soldier to solve clues and learn about Singapore's military history as you explore the hidden secrets of this remarkable site. Chinatown Less than ten minutes’ walk from the river is Singapore’s oldest district, Chinatown, which is worth at least half a day of exploring. As well as finding plenty of shops and restaurants – selling everything from lucky cats to the city’s signature Hainanese chicken rice – you’ll find the impressively modern Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. The district is also home to several of the city’s oldest temples, the oldest Chinese Tea House and several museums – though if you’re looking for more family-oriented entertainment you could try a Virtual Reality Experience or perhaps an Outdoor Escape Room puzzle hunt through the narrow, colorful streets. Explore Clarke Quay with Go City Whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, day or night, feet, water or wheels, there’s something for everyone in Singapore’s Clarke Quay district. Save money and see it all with Go City!
Karleen Stevens
Things to do in Singapore's Civic District
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Things to do in Singapore's Civic District

Heading to Singapore's Civic and wondering what things you can do while you're there? In this article, we'll explore the best activities to try out on your visit. So, whether you're looking for culture, fun, or relaxation, we've got you covered. Read on, and discover the Civic District's best bits! Including: National Museum of Singapore Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park The Battlebox The National Gallery Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar and more! Visit the National Museum of Singapore We'll start with one of the joys of taking a vacation - exploring and understanding a new culture. And with a melting pot of so many seemingly disparate cultures found in Singapore, you'll need to explore the state's past, present, and future to get the bigger picture. That's where the National Museum of Singapore comes in clutch. Journey through its galleries, and you'll discover what drives the beating heart of Singapore. Through world-class exhibitions, visually captivating art installations, and an exploration of local festivals, you'll learn about Singapore's rise into one of the most visited places on the planet. And you'll see where it all began. Try a Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park If you're looking for things to do in Singapore's Civic District, put your thinking cap on and try your hand at a puzzle scavenger hunt in the area's Fort Canning Park. Think outdoor escape room mixed with roleplay. Embody the life of a soldier as you search for the secrets to Singapore's army. Hunt for clues, solve riddles, and work your way across the city to see if you can win the ultimate prize. Fun solo, but more fun in a group; it's a great way to get outdoors and see the sights while putting the grey matter to the test. Get historical at the Battlebox Keeping on the military theme, if you like exploring the history and tactics of war, then you should definitely visit The Battlebox. Located on the top-secret site where officers directed the Battle of Singapore in the Second World War, you'll be able to explore recreations of the men, the machinery, and the maps they used to direct the assault. Worm your way through the actual rooms and corridors they walked, and see some authentic wartime artifacts while you're at it. Take a guided tour, or dare to travel the labyrinth of underground tunnels yourself. However you choose to explore The Battlebox, you'll learn how the allies won and discover the tension and drama behind the decision to surrender the much-vaunted 'Singapore Fortress' on 15 February 1942. For history buffs with a penchant for war, it doesn't get much better than that. Image courtesy of Miguel Vidal/Shutterstock Take a look around the National Gallery If you like your culture with a hefty spoonful of brush strokes, then the National Gallery is one of the best things to do in Singapore's Civic District. Held in the city's old City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, the National Gallery offers a massive 64,000 square meters of artwork. You'll find plenty of mainstay exhibitions along with rotating exhibits, including 'Siapa Nama Kamu?', or 'What's your name?'. It explores the life and times of Singaporeans through local art, examining the effect art has on the community. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in art and local culture in one fell swoop. But that's just one of the many fantastic installations you'll find inside this massive space, so head inside and get exploring. And when you're done, pick up a keepsake from one of the many shops you'll find on-site. Get refreshed at Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar After a long day of sightseeing, you might want to put your feet up and enjoy a refreshing beverage. If so, head to Raffles Hotel and check out the Courtyard Bar, where you can get a drink from us. Raffles Courtyard is something else, mimicking a beachside paradise replete with palm trees and tiki tents. It's the perfect place to relax, and take a moment to drink in the city. Of course, that's not the only thing you'll be drinking in, thanks to the complimentary offering you can get with Go City! And hey, if you stay for a few more - no judgments here. See a show at Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall Another of Singapore Civic District's biggest draws is the Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, where you'll find plenty of live performances throughout the year. Having been recently refurbished, you'll be treated to a top-tier experience from the moment you walk in the door. Home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. or SSO, we're sure they appreciate the improved acoustics that transforms the theatre's already impressive sound. Check out their site to see when the SSO, or a variety of performers, are playing, and grab a ticket! Game on at Zero Latency If you want thrills, spills, and chills in a virtual space, then Zero Latency has got you covered. This Virtual Reality hotspot features tons of immersive experiences that will have you sweating, laughing, and screaming - in that order. Team up with a crew to slay zombies, robots, and other cannon fodder, or work together to solve puzzles. You can even take part in some sports activities, if Singapore's famous weather swings towards the wetter end. Whichever you pick, you're bound to have a grand time. Relax at The Thai Spa We'll end our guide of things to do in Singapore's Civic District with the ultimate relaxation experience. If you need your back kneaded and your joints cracked, head to The Thai Spa and let them do their thing. Alongside massages, you can try aromatherapy, and even take part in some ancient Thai rituals, if you're feeling adventurous. With a focus on organic goodies, you'll be sure to refresh both your body and soul. So, if you need a break from all your exploring, go knock on their door. And that about does it for our guide to Singapore's Civic District. Looking for more things to do in Singapore? Check out Go City! With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can experience all the best bits of Singapore for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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