Get the lowdown on the most incredible things to do this weekend in Singapore!
Phase 2 is in full session, what with attractions, museums and libraries back in business. Keeping in mind that things aren’t really back to normal, we’ve included on our list virtual events and a couple of outdoor activities for those desperately wanting to head out. Cheers to the weekend – we’ve got plenty of things to do!
Top things to do this weekend
Welcome to the jungle
Miss the wildlife of Singapore? No, we’re not talking about the uber-cute otters or the intimidating wild boars. The parks of Wildlife Reserves Singapore (River Safari, Jurong Bird Park and Singapore Zoo) will be welcoming back the public at 25% capacity from 6 July. But here’s the catch. All tickets have to be bought online before visiting.
Feast on flavours close to home
Start the day right with a hearty breakfast
As much as we love our fine dining establishments, there’s a special place in our hearts and stomachs for local fare. Eat your way through the city this weekend, from biryani and chicken rice to nasi lemak and xiao long baos. But before all that, start your day with breakfast the local way. For the bougie bunch, check out the breezy alfresco spots in the city or top-notch cafes for your fill of brunch.
Local content FTW!
All weekend
While we miss catching indie flicks at our fave alternative cinema, The Projector has released a few local films for rental. Our picks are I Dream Of Singapore and The Last Artisan. The former chronicles the life of a migrant worker in the city and the latter sheds light on Teo Veoh Seng, the man who brought life to Haw Par Villa (yes, the iconic theme park with enigmatic, bizarre sculptures).
For theatre geeks, relive the beloved local stage performance Emily of Emerald Hill online with Margaret Chan playing the titular role. Putting a spotlight on local talent, ArtScience on Screen is showcasing the creativity of filmmakers who have created short films amidst the pandemic in this online series. This weekend, catch Late Spring by Lei Yuan Bin – an ode to the film of the same title by Japanese director Yasujiro Ozu. Who says artists are not essential?
A ride to remember
You didn’t hear it from us but Cylon’s the serious thriller at USS.
Adrenaline junkies, Universal Studios Singapore is back in action. While street performances are on hold at the moment, you’re more than welcome to ride on the world’s tallest duelling roller coasters, Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon or the head-spinning indoor Revenge of the Mummy ride through the cursed pyramid.
What’s good in the ‘hood?
Walk off the calories by exploring the city’s heritage enclaves, including the vibrant Little India, charming Chinatown, hip Kampong Glam and old school Tiong Bahru. Or wander through the quiet eastern neighbourhoods of Tampines, Joo Chiat, Bedok and Siglap to escape the hustle and bustle. A little too anxious about heading out over the weekend? Well, Singapore Heritage Festival’s digital edition will spotlight Kallang this week. Learn more about this serene heartland through guided tours, documentaries and stories from the past.
The art of introspection
All weekend
Addicted Art Gallery is hosting an online virtual exhibition that explores the spectrum of muted colours. Enter Hidden Messages by the Skye Brothers, a collection of paintings done in monochromatic colours of gold, black and white. Take a closer look and you will see statements in contrasting colours or almost invisible phrases in the same colour palette as the painting, probing you to come up with a personal meaning behind the masterpiece.
Enjoy the great outdoors
Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. Photography: NParks via Facebook
Explore the garden city, one park (or island) at a time. That includes our lovely hidden green spots in every nook and cranny – add ’em to your bucket list for fun under the sun! Another option? Hop on your bicycle and cycle through the countless bike routes around the city. If you’re yearning for an island vacay, grab your swimmers and head to one of the many pristine beaches or public swimming pools across the city. It’ll be a splashin’ good time.
Virtual parties for cool cats
All weekend
Scratch your party itch with A Phat Collective. On 3 July, retro arcade club Nineteen80 will be throwing a fun virtual trivia night! The theme, you ask? It’s all about the 80s baby, so form a team with your best pals and get ready to boogie.
The debauchery continues the next day at Pinball Wizard. Resident DJ Ollie’Des will be hitting you with the best hip hop tunes, so bring the roof down with your best moves (i.e. twerking, grinding or krumping). Also, no virtual party is complete without a little booze action. Get your fill of cocktails, including the classic Long Island Iced Tea, the potent Poison Ivy and insanely fun glitter shots such as Crouching Tiger and Peanut Butter & Jelly.
Heal through writing
All weekend
As we live in uncertain times, self-care is more important now than ever. Join local author Melissa De Silva in an online series of three sessions, as part of The Arts House’s Write From Home (WFH) Workshops. She’ll guide you on a cathartic writing journey to deal with your feelings from isolation. Let’s speak self-care into existence!
Home alone
For those who are still a little anxious about heading out, that’s totally cool too! While you wait for the crowds to simmer down, there are plenty of things to do at home – at this point, we’re the ultimate pros.
