8 FREE Family Events and Activities to Enjoy this Chinese New Year
Wondering what's happening this weekend? Take a look at our weekend planner for the best places to visit, along with exciting free events for kids in Singapore!
1. Marvel at the stunning lanterns at River Hongbao
River Hongbao 2025
River Hongbao started on 27 January at Gardens by the Bay! Bring the kids to enjoy the stunning free lantern displays and cultural performances. This year’s event is extra special, celebrating Singapore’s 60th birthday, with giant lanterns lighting up at dusk, along with carnival rides and food stalls to enjoy.
Deets: 27 January – 5 February, Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay
2. Head to The Istana for its CNY Open House
Istana CNY Open House
The Istana Open House returns for its Chinese New Year edition! Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the palace grounds, watch musical performances and multicultural dances, and join a guided tour (for an additional fee). There will also be food stalls, a food truck, and booths selling gifts and souvenirs. Entry is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, with tickets priced at $10/child and $20/adult for other visitors.
Deets: 2 February, 8.30am – 6pm, The Istana, 35 Orchard Road, Singapore 238823
3. Visit the Sentosa Festive Market
Sentosa Festival Market
The Sentosa Festive Market returns to Palawan Beach Walk this weekend with a special Valentine’s Edition! Explore a variety of curated vendors, join Valentine’s Day-themed workshops, enjoy food from a food truck, and soak up the lively music and great atmosphere.
Deets: 1 – 2 February, 4pm – 9pm, Palawan Beach Walk
4. Enjoy the Festive Performances at Sentosa
Festive performances at Sentosa
Even though it's a long weekend for those celebrating Lunar New Year, Sentosa is buzzing with events! Enjoy free cultural performances, Chinese magic shows, a ventriloquist act, a dragon dance, and a lion dance. Don't miss a stroll through Sentosa Sensoryscape, where you can admire the beautiful organza flower displays along the path.
Deets: Now till 2 February (various events on various days. Check the programme here), Sentosa Sensoryscape
5. Marvel at the projections and light displays at Light to Night 2025
Light to Night
Let the kids stay up a bit later this weekend to catch the Light to Night Festival 2025! Head to The Padang to see giant illuminated sculptures and enjoy the stunning projection mapping shows at the National Gallery Singapore, Asian Civilisations Museum, The Arts House, and Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, all starting at 7:30pm nightly. Be sure to check out other art installations and stop by the Art X Social Festival Village for delicious food and live music.
Deets: 17 January – 6 February, multiple locations
6. Explore the newly opened Mandai Boardwalk!
Mandai Broadwalk
The Mandai Boardwalk is now open! Take a leisurely walk along the new 3.3km trail—it’s stroller-friendly, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll through Upper Seletar Reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Along the way, you'll encounter five thematic stations and a lookout point, all inspired by the local wildlife.
Deets: Open daily 7am – 7pm, trail entrances at Mandai Wildlife East and River Wonders
7. Unleash your creativity with the kids at this Art Gallery
LOY Contemporary Art Gallery
A new art exhibit is in town, and it's perfect for kids! American artist Adam Handler’s vibrant and whimsical artworks are on display at the LOY Contemporary Art Gallery, sure to capture the imagination of young ones. The exhibit features a kids’ activity table where children can colour stencils created by Handler, making it a fun and creative experience for the whole family.
Deets: Now till 1 March 2025, Tuesday – Saturday 11am – 6.30pm, LOY Contemporary Art Gallery, Tudor Court, 133-135 Tanglin Road, Singapore 6908 3341
8. Discover hidden treasures at the Vintage Flea Market
The Retro Factory
The Retro Factory returns with its monthly Vintage Flea Market at Katong Square this weekend, from 7 to 9 February. Bring the kids along to hunt for unique finds, from antiques and vinyl records to toys, fashion, watches, and more.
Deets: 7 – 8 February, 1pm – 10pm; 9 February 11am – 8pm, Katong Square
