This May and June, the National Heritage Board invites families across Singapore to rediscover our vibrant culture and history through a series of exciting, interactive, and educational events. Whether you’re raising little culture buffs or just looking for meaningful weekend activities, these festive highlights promise fun and enrichment for every member of the family.
Singapore HeritageFest 2025: A Celebration of Living Traditions
Date: 1 to 25 May 2025
Venue: Various Locations
Explore Singapore’s intangible cultural heritage in a festival packed with hands-on workshops, heritage tours, captivating performances and exhibitions. This 22nd edition of the Singapore HeritageFest (SHF) celebrates beloved traditions like our UNESCO-recognised hawker culture and the iconic kebaya. Families can visit sgheritagefest.gov.sg to plan their festival experience.
Kebaya Catwalk: Collectible Fun for All Ages
Date: Now until 16 June 2025
Venue: Island-wide
In collaboration with Nanyang Polytechnic, vending machines across Singapore are dispensing limited-edition kebaya-themed cat keychains—free for all, just by playing a game. It’s a fun way to teach kids about the kebaya’s cultural significance while enjoying a lighthearted treasure hunt together. More info at go.gov.sg/kebaya-catwalk.
Indian Heritage Centre Turns 10
Date: 10 to 11 May 2025
Venue: Indian Heritage Centre
Join the Indian Heritage Centre’s 10th birthday celebration with free gallery admission, interactive storytelling tours, a kids’ colouring contest, and drop-in craft stations. The first 1000 visitors get a free IHC10 tote bag, plus there’s tea and snacks for all. Register at ihc-programmes.peatix.com.
Monumental Hunt in the Civic District
Date: Third Saturday of Each Month
Time: 9.30 am to 12 pm
A puzzle-filled outdoor adventure awaits. This guided treasure hunt mixes history with fun as families explore nine historic monuments. Suitable for older children and teens, it’s a great way to learn about Singapore’s civic past in an engaging, escape-room-style format. Tickets cost $55 per participant. Details at tribe-tours.com.
Malay Heritage Centre Events
Public Lecture: Conflict as a Catalyst
Date: 3 May 2025
Venue: Esplanade
Explore how history shaped Malay literature and theatre. Suitable for older teens and parents interested in cultural history. Admission is free with registration.
Beats on Baghdad Street: Bangsawan Pantomime
Date: 17 May 2025
Venue: Baghdad Street
Time: 6 pm to 6.45 pm and 9 pm to 9.45 pm
Bring the kids to this lively, open-air theatrical retelling of Sang Nila Utama’s story, complete with dance and drama in Malay and English. A cultural treat for all ages. Admission is free with registration.
Jackfruit-Themed Cultural Workshop for Educators
Date: 5 June 2025
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens
This workshop fuses food, art, and folklore for an enriching experience—perfect for parents and educators. Stay tuned for registration details.
Into the Hawkerverse at Children’s Museum Singapore
Date: Ongoing until 2026
Venue: Children’s Museum Singapore
Let your kids step into Singapore’s delicious hawker culture through this interactive exhibition created just for them. Through stories, play, and hands-on learning, young visitors aged 12 and below will come away with a deeper appreciation of our food heritage. Entry is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents. More details at nhb.gov.sg/childrensmuseum.
Explore Our Wartime Past
Changi Chapel and Museum
Learn about the lives of prisoners of war during the Japanese Occupation through immersive exhibits and personal stories. Admission is free for Citizens and PRs.
Reflections at Bukit Chandu
Dive into the history of the Battle of Pasir Panjang and the bravery of the Malay Regiment through engaging, multimedia exhibits. Admission is free for Citizens and PRs.
Whether you’re a family of history lovers or simply looking to introduce your kids to Singapore’s unique heritage, these events are a perfect chance to make learning fun. Plan your cultural outings today.
