Panorama of the Singapore skyline as sun rises with green space, the river and Marina Bay Sands

The best Singapore autumn events

By Alex Birungi

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.

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Singapore Spring
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Things to Do in Singapore in Spring

By Mia Russell When Spring springs, Singapore sings with beautiful weather and a wealth of fun things to see and do. The vibrant, energetic city offers loads to do throughout the year, but spring is a particularly lovely time to visit as the rain has eased off, the skies are bright and blue, and temperatures are toasty. Singapore has so much on the go in spring, you’ll be hard-pressed to find time for relaxing. The city’s green spaces like Gardens on the Bay and Floral Fantasy burst into bloom and are a magical sight. The city comes alive with an array of events and festivals taking place. From the Singapore International Festival of Arts and Annual Fashion Week to the Singapore International Jazz Festival and Vesak Day, there are some amazing festivities to enjoy in the spring months. Why visit Singapore in the spring? Spring is a great time to visit Singapore if you want to avoid the worst of the heat and the rain. While temperatures are still warm (27°C / 80°F to 33°C / 91.4°F), it is slightly drier and less humid. You might experience the odd thunderstorm in the afternoon, but they are short-lived and offer a cool respite from the heat. From exploring the city’s spectacular green urban spaces to enjoying river cruises and sunset sails, let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Singapore in spring. Hop around the city One of the best ways to see and experience Singapore is on a Big Bus Singapore tour. Use your pass to hop on of the many open-top buses and discover the sights and sounds of Singapore in a comfortable and relaxing. You can jump off at any of the stops and explore the area and hop back on when you are ready. It’s an easy, convenient, and super-flexible way of exploring the wonders of Singapore. Another fantastic way of exploring the city in the glorious spring weather is on a bike! Your pass gets you a spot on a Historical Singapore Bicycle Tour which will you take you to some of the city’s most popular sights. Explore all the hot spots like Chinatown, the Museum District, and the Clarke & Robertson Quays, as well as local markets and neighborhoods. Learn the story of Singapore and all its secrets from your expert guide and sample some of the city’s multicultural cuisine at various markets along the way. Wander around Singapore’s beautiful gardens Home to some of the most breathtaking gardens and green urban spaces in the world, Singapore (fondly known as the ‘City in a Garden’) is one of the greenest cities in the world. Make the Gardens by the Bay in Marina Bay your first stop. Here you’ll find misty biodomes full of tropical blooms, gigantic high-tech trees that light up at night, and whimsical sculptures. Use your pass to get into this fantasy world and visit the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Top Tip: Hang around for the evening Garden Rhapsody show where the Supertrees burst into light. Next, head to the 82-hectare Singapore Botanic Gardens to meander around a tropical oasis of flourishing themed gardens home to more than 550 species. Don’t miss the National Orchid Garden and the botanical art gallery in the Gallop Extension. Celebrate the Chinese New Year This grand festival in Singapore shouldn’t be missed! Also known as the Spring Festival in Singapore, the Chinese New Year falls on the new moon day and celebrates Lunar New Year. The festival continues for 14 days with the Chinese cleaning their homes to get rid of bad luck and make room for good luck. Homes are vibrantly decorated in gold and red, and gifts are exchanged. Chinatown comes alive with dragon and lion dancing and other activities. Top Tip: Head to Chinatown to watch incredible performances by the fire eaters and lion dancers. Don't miss the wondrous Chingay Parade. See the city from the water The glorious spring weather calls for hitting the water and what better way to see Singapore’s city skyline than on a Singapore River Cruise. Use your pass to hop on a traditional bumboat and sail down the Singapore River, taking in the incredible skyline and learning the city’s history from local guides. Keep your camera handy as you pass famous sights like Raffles, the Esplanade, and the Old Parliament House. The cool breezes off the water are heaven on a hot summer’s day. Have some fun in the sun at Sentosa Park Sentosa Island is a fantastic place to enjoy the balmy spring weather with slides, rides, and tons of fun for the whole family. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Sentosa Island boasts beautiful beaches, theme parks, an aquarium, and a subterranean casino. Hop on the Singapore Sky Cable with your pass for a thrilling ride to Sentosa Island from Mount Faber on the mainland. Take in the amazing views on the way and spend the day enjoying all the attractions on the island. Brave the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios, explore the SEA Aquarium don’t forget to use your pass), and sip cocktails at one of the swanky beach bars. Enjoy a spectacular multimedia night show at the Mount Faber Cable Car station on your return. Go on a kayaking adventure Kayaking in the calm waters around Singapore’s many islands is a fantastic way to spend a few hours. This fun, family-friendly activity is ideal for all fitness levels and ages, and you don’t need any sailing experience. Experienced guides will teach you the basics and show you some of Singapore’s secret spots along the coast. Venture to Pulau Ubin and explore the magnificent mangrove forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife like otters, mangrove lizards, and long-tailed macaques. Visit one of the island’s floating fish farms (kelongs) and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch of locally-farmed sea bass and mussels. You can even try your hand at kayak fishing and catch your own lunch! Use your pass to enjoy a Nature Kayaking Adventure at Pulau Ubin. Explore the beautiful coastline of Pulau Ubin and Pulau Ketam on this fantastic tour and soak up the spectacular natural scenery. Get Jazzy Calling all jazz lovers! Spring in Singapore is the best time for jazz music lovers to visit as the city hosts the Singapore International Jazz Festival. Held at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, this incredible three-day event features local and international acts such as Jamie Cullum, Earth Wind & Fire, and Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club. While you are at the Marina Bay Sands, head up to the SkyPark Deck on the 57th floor for some of the most incredible views of the city. Take a guided tour and learn about Singapore's history and enjoy a dip in the hotel’s famous infinity pool that seemingly floats over the city. Use your pass to enjoy a free drink from the CÉ LA VI SkyBar as you soak up the unbelievable vistas.
Go City Expert
Traditional boat on the Singapore River near Clarke Quay
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Best boat tours in Singapore

Set on the banks of the historic Singapore River, Singapore has a deep connection to water and it’s the lifeblood of this Asian metropolis. Hopping on a boat ride and exploring the ancient river and its islands is an incredible way to see the city from a unique perspective. We hit the water and came up with a list of the best boat tours in Singapore. From classic bumboat tours of the city to exploring the northeastern islands of the city-state, you’ll find an array of fantastic boat tours that cater to every desire. Here are our top picks for boat tours in Singapore. Grab your camera and let’s hit the water! Singapore River Cruise Highlights See the city from a unique perspective Experience life on the Singapore River both day and night Discover the city’s extraordinary mix of heritage and modernity Spot famous landmarks like the Merlion, Raffles, and the Esplanade Experience Singapore’s most famous landmarks and historic monuments on a Singapore River Cruise. One of the best boat tours in the city, this fantastic tour takes you past all the top spots in the city. Hop on a traditional bumboat at Clarke Quay Counter, the very place where Sir Stamford Raffles first stepped foot onto Singapore. Marvel at the enchanting mix of rich heritage and modern architecture. Ancient shophouses along the riverbanks have been beautifully restored to house stylish restaurants and bars and shimmering skyscrapers stand sentry over the city. Glide beneath the grand bridges of Singapore such as the Anderson, Cavenagh, and Clemenceau Bridges, and learn their fascinating stories from your guide. You’ll also get to visit various historical landmarks along the Singapore River that played a central role in the development of the city. Pass the emblematic Merlion statue at Marina Bay and keep an eye out for the Raffles' landing at the historic Boat Quay. Admire the breathtaking modern architecture of the Esplanade performing arts center. Designed to look like a durian (tropical fruit), the striking buildings have aluminum cladding that reflects the sun to create a spectacular shimmering effect. Have your camera ready to catch it at the perfect angle. Singapore River Cruises are offered during the day and at night. Don’t forget to use your pass to get onto one of these incredible tours and soak up the essence of Singapore. Singapore DUCK Tour Highlights Explore Singapore on land and sea by amphibious vehicle Make a splashy entrance into the sea at Marina Bay Another fantastic way to explore the city from the water is on a Singapore DUCK Tour. These tours are conducted on remodeled amphibious vehicles from the Second World War Vietnam and promise an unforgettable experience. Use your pass to enjoy this one-of-a-kind Singapore experience. Hop on board at Suntec Shopping Mall and drive to Marina Bay where you’ll splash into the water for the water-based part of the tour. Take in spectacular views of Singapore’s famous landmarks like the Esplanade Theater, Gardens by the Bay, and the awe-inspiring Marina Bay Sands. Keep your camera on hand to snap a shot of the official mascot of Singapore - the Merlion. Trundle back onto land and drive into the Civic District, passing the giant Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel. Explore the rich history of the city with visits to the Old Supreme Court, where the British surrendered to the imperial Japanese army during the Second World War. Pay tribute to those who gave their lives during the Japanese occupation as you pass the War Memorial Park. Take a final spin around the world’s largest water fountain, the Fountain of Wealth before ending your tour back at Suntec City. Sunset Sail - Dinner Cruise Highlights Cruise in luxury on the Royal Albatross tall ship Discover the magic of old Singapore Take in the spectacular sunset from the water Enjoy a gourmet three-course dinner while cruising Treat yourself to something special with a luxury dinner cruise on the Royal Albatross. Board the four-mast, 22-sail tall ship at the Sentosa Gateway and cruise past the Palawan Beach Walk on Sentosa Island as you sip aperitifs. Watch the sun dip below the horizon as you sail past the beautiful southern islands of St Johns and Lazarus. Sit down to a gourmet three-course dinner of globally-inspired cuisine. Marvel at the spectacular views of the city by night as you sail back to Sentosa. Kelong and Pulau Ubin Guided Boat Tour Highlights Escape the city and explore the northeastern shores of Singapore See mangrove swamps, uninhabited islands, and loads of nature Experience life on a floating fish farm Discover the island of Pulau Ubin Escape the concrete jungle and enjoy a three-hour sojourn to the northeastern banks of Singapore. Hop on a catamaran at the SAF Yacht Club and head out to sea with an experienced guide at the helm. As you make your way towards Pulau Ubin, keep an eye out for fishermen earning their living and floating kelong villages. Learn about life on a kelong, a wooden platform built by fishermen primarily for fishing or fish farming, and the struggles of sustainable fishing and fish farming. Larger structures are also used by fisherman and their families as dwellings. Only a handful of these ancient structures remain due to rapid urbanization. Cruise along the shores of Pulau Ubin, the only inhabited island out of Singapore’s 63 islands, and home to traditional kampongs (villages) and disused granite quarries. Pass the lush mangrove swamps of the Chek Jawa Wetlands and watch out for bulbuls and kingfishers. End your trip with a visit to a kelong with a floating restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal as you experience life on a floating fish farm. Southern Islands Tour Highlights Explores Singapore’s lesser-known southern islands Learn interesting history and facts about the islands from an experienced onboard guide Enjoy a picnic on Lazarus Beach Hop on a private boat charter for a curated tour of Singapore’s lesser-known islands. Explore five beautiful islands, including Kusu Island, Lazarus Island, St John's Island, Sisters’ Islands, and Seringat Island. As you cruise around the uninhabited islands, a professional guide will share the rich historical and cultural heritage of the islands and the extraordinary biodiversity of flora and fauna that reside on them. Visit the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, home to Singapore’s first turtle hatchery. Discover why Kusu Island is also known as Tortoise Island and is steeped in local folklore and myth. Learn the significant history of St John's Island that is tied to Singapore. Enjoy a picnic on the little-known beach paradise of Lazarus Island and swim in gin-clear waters.
Alex Birungi

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