From Yishun to Bedok to Ang Mo Kio, the Heartlands Festival invites you to uncover the wonders of our heartland ‘hoods.
What’s good in the heartlands? We’re psyched for the inaugural Heartlands Festival. Organised by the Heartland Enterprise Centre Singapore, its Heartlights Xperience Trails shed light on neighbourhoods all across Singapore. So wear your comfiest shoes and get ready to rediscover our heartlands in a different light. They’re such an important part of our city!
1. Bedok
The south-east town comes alive with light-ups illuminating Bedok Town Centre as you walk around the ‘hood – spot the ‘gram-friendly cut-outs of the festival’s mascots. You guessed it, they’re adorable otters! Hunger pangs kicking in? Fuel up with an icy treat at FATCAT Ice Cream Bar, followed by local hawker delicacies at Bedok North 216 Food Centre.
2. Tampines West
Next stop, Tampines West! The trail starts at Blk 827 Tampines Street 81 where you’ll find one of the festival’s iconic installations. When you’re done snapping photos with Carly the party otter, who loves to celebrate, check out Three’s A Crowd for good coffee and fresh bakes. Continue the adventure with a relaxing and leisurely stroll along the lush Bedok Reservoir. After taking in the picturesque views, treat yourself to a hearty meal at Burp Kitchen & Bar. Think pasta, burgers and tacos!
3. Yuhua
On the west side, Yuhua welcomes you with an installation of Eddy. He’s the foodie otter and you will find him next to strips of otah otah wrapped in banana leaves. Feeling hungry? Make your way to Yuhua Hawker Centre and feast on local classics like carrot cake, bak kut teh and laksa. The culinary adventure doesn’t end here. Make a pit stop at Lee’s Confectionery to bag delicious tea-time bakes. Don’t eat them just yet! Rent a bike at GoCycling @ Jurong Lake Gardens and cycle through Chinese Garden to find a comfy spot for a relaxing picnic. Tip: you’d best make it there right before dusk so you can witness the glorious sunset.
4. Ang Mo Kio
The trail at this charming neighbourhood starts at Ang Mo Kio Central where you’ll spot an installation of a cute otter dressed up as the nostalgic dragon slide from our playgrounds back in the day. That’s Paddy by the way, he is all about fun times and loves a good adventure. When the need to load up on energy kicks in, walk over to Teck Ghee Court Market & Food Centre for a solid meal of chicken rice. For a little outdoor action with nature, visit Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. Oh, and pop by the skating rink if you want to get your wheels on. Skate store Freeskate Inline is conveniently located across the park.
5. Yishun
Think you know Yishun? Well, think again. Sasha the shopaholic otter’s installation marks the start of the trail here. After you’ve explored the area, learn more about the neighbourhood at the Yishun Town Museum. For a nourishing meal, head to the Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre. It’s home to Real Food, Jing Si Books and Cafe, and Slow Bakes – all of which serve up plant-based food. For a sweat sesh to end your day, engage in a friendly futsal match at FutsalArena @ Yishun.
Want to know more about the Heartlights Xperience Trails? Check out Heartlands Festival for all the deets!
This post is in partnership with Heartlands Festival 2021.