There's nothing like enjoying your time at a pasar malam in Singapore for a dose of nostalgia.
Sure, you can find nostalgic local snacks like muah chee, Ramly burger, vadai, Taiwan sausage, cotton candy, tea egg, putu piring and keropok lekor elsewhere. But nothing beats the rush, vibes, smells and overall experience of a pasar malam (‘night market’ in Malay). And now, after two years, the pasar malams are back!
Pasar malam origins in Singapore
Back in the mid-1950s, weekly pasar malams were organised by hawkers near British military bases. The number of markets increased over the next decade as they were located near public and private housing estates, providing easy access to food, snacks, clothing, footwear and even household furnishings.
However, the pasar malams were slowly phased out in 1978 due to the requirement of licensing. They were believed to be the cause of traffic congestion, noise pollution and public health problems. These street hawkers moved to hawker centres – that’s why we have a prominent number of them today.
Later on, the night markets made a comeback in the 1980s with strict government control measures. Today, you’ll notice that the night events pop up during festive occasions around Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali.
Excited to check ‘em out? We’ve rounded up a list of ongoing pasar malams in Singapore.
Best pasar malams in Singapore
1. Ramadan bazaars around Singapore
With Ramadan coming up, it comes as no surprise that the streets of Singapore are being taken over by a multitude of night markets. It is the place to be for anyone who needs to get some Raya shopping done. Or if you just wanna sink yourself into the festive mood, treat yourself to giant cups of iced tea and delectable grilled foods. Wanna know where to be? Check out our list of Ramadan bazaars that you can’t miss.
Where: Multiple locations including Suntec City, Expo, and Wisma Geylang Serai
When: Multiple dates
2. Ecoharmony Fest
This particular pasar malam is probably the first ever sustainable night market in Singapore. The entire market will be run on electricity generated by solar panels. So that means the lights, amusement park rides, and carnival games are all fueled by green energy. How cool is that?
Where: 131 Bedok North Avenue 3, Singapore 460131
When: Until 9 April
3. Albert Street / Waterloo Street
With shops running all along the walkway from Fu Lu Shou Complex, we can’t imagine a better place to be for all your night market needs. A stone’s throw away from Rochor MRT, you won’t even have to wait for the sun to set if you want to visit. Some stalls are already up and running at noon all the way till the late evening.
Where: 149 Rochor Road, Singapore 188425
When: Until 10 March
4. Tampines Pasar Malam
The pasar malam at Tampines MRT is probably one of the biggest night markets in the east. Make a date with your loved ones and enjoy scrumptious street food (sweet potato balls, durian goreng, crispy chicken, corn dog, seafood skewer, fried Oreo), and hearty mains (boat noodles, Japanese curry katsu, kebabs). There’s also a small selection of carnival games, furniture shops, potted plants, home furnishings and casual wear for some retail therapy.
Where: Tampines MRT Station, 20 Tampines Central 1, Singapore 529538
When: 9 March to 7 April
Other upcoming pasar malams
5. Paya Lebar Quarter
Where: 10 Paya Lebar Road, Singapore 409057
When: 14 March – 9 April
6. Bazaar Raya Utara
Where: 11 Canberra Road, Singapore 759775
When: 6 March – 4 April
7. Woodlands Square
Where: 30 Woodlands Avenue 2, Singapore 738343
When: 12 March – 10 April
8. Tampines Mini Fair
Where: Tampines Avenue 5
When: 23 March – 7 April
Brave the crowds and experience the true pasar malam experience in Singapore – it’s totally worth it!
