Joo Chiat is saying goodbye to cars for World Car-Free Day! Explore this iconic neighbourhood on foot or by bicycle, and join special activities.
The buzzy and colourful Joo Chiat is going car-free in celebration of World Car-Free Day 2026! For a couple of hours, the stretch between Dunman Road and East Coast Road will be closed off, turning it into a motor-free zone. Co-created with members of the community, local businesses, and even residents, you’ll be treated to exhibits, sustainability showcases, and family-friendly activities. Here’s what to expect!
Joo Chiat’s World Car-Free Day 2026: Details at a glance
When: 3 October 2026, 3.30pm to 9.30pm
Price: Free admission with some ticketed events
Address: Joo Chiat celebrates World Car-Free Day 2026, between Dunman Road & East Coast Road and multiple locations in Joo Chiat
What is Joo Chiat Car-Free Day?
In conjunction with World Car-Free Day 2026, the Land Transport Authority (LTA), agencies, community organisations, and industry partners have created a series of activities happening from September to November 2026. The efforts show how the streets of Singapore can be transformed into vibrant community spaces! It’s a day for active commutes, social connections, placemaking, and heritage appreciation. Everyone is welcome to walk, cycle, and take public transport to join these activities along people-friendly streets.
Explore the neighbourhood
If you’ve ever visited Joo Chiat (especially on weekends), you’ll know that traffic can be a terror. Crossing the road can feel like a warzone on busy days! But thanks to Joo Chiat Car-Free Day, you’re welcome to take leisurely walks through the neighbourhood without worrying about vehicles. There are even tours that you can join just for this event!
The Invisible City
An interactive mobile game experience developed by LTA with GovTech Singapore. Take part in location-based challenges by walking, cycling, or taking public transport to locales within Singapore. With every completed challenge, your virtual map grows.
When: 1 September to 30 November 2026
How much: Free; accessible via the CrowdTaskSG app
Where: The Invisible City, multiple locations in Singapore
Performances at Marine Parade Station
Riding the Thomson-East Coast Line to get to Joo Chiat? You hear some music on your way out!
When: 3 October 2026, 4pm to 5pm
How much: Free
Where: Performances at Marine Parade Station, 101 Marine Parade Road, Singapore 449971
Urban Sustainability Bike Tour
Hosted by the Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore), hop on a bike and take a leisurely ride through the car-free streets of Joo Chiat. You’ll learn more about sustainable initiatives, city planning, and infrastructure that keep our city clean and green. Participants need to bring their own bikes, or you can rent one from bike-sharing platforms at the starting point.
When: 3 October 2026
How much: Tickets start from $10
Where: Urban Sustainability Bike Tour, location to be confirmed
Activities for the community, by the community
Besides exploring Joo Chiat, you can also meet familiar faces behind the brands that call this neighbourhood home. Katong Culture and the Katong-Joo Chiat Business Association will anchor the celebrations with a community party for all ages. Join rich cultural activities like a kueh party, local arts, and live performances around Joo Chiat Community Club.
It’s also a good opportunity to get active with pickleball games, rollerblading sessions, and a Heritage Dance Fitness segment. And of course, there’s plenty to do for your furkids!
So free up your schedules and make a whole day of it! We’ll see you at Joo Chiat’s Car-Free Day.
Looking for other ways to explore the city? Right this way:
- Take a ghost tour in Singapore
- Gourmaze: Eat your way around Singapore
- Haw Par Villa guide: Walk through Chinese culture turned into art
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is this happening?
The section between Dunman Road and East Coast Road will be closed off for the duration of the event. You can also catch performances at Marine Parade Station and the Joo Chiat Community Club.
Is it free to join?
Yes! Joo Chiat Car-Free Day is free to enter and roam. Some activities may require registration and payment, with more details being released closer to the event day.
What can I do there?
There will be a mix of interactive exhibitions, showcases, fitness activities and classes, heritage experiences, F&B stalls, and more.
Can I cycle along Joo Chiat during Car-Free Day?
Yes! Visitors are encouraged to explore the neighbourhood either on foot or by bike.
Is it kid- and pet-friendly?
Yes! The event will include activities for children and pets, so feel free to bring the whole family along.
