Halloween is a major family affair in the United States of America, where decorations, pumkin carving and costumes are embraced by the young and old. There are even competitions for the cutest or most ghoulish costumes or house, visits to haunted cemeteries and even street parties to celebrate the last night of October.
In Singapore, however, Halloween is mostly celebrated by teenagers and young adults who turned it into more of a party fest. They usually head to the most popular party district at the time – currently it is Clarke Quay – and have a major drink fest in the most terrifying or humiliating costumes they could find. Some more adventurous ones even venture to well-known haunted spots like the Singapore Changi Hospital or Chua Chu Kang cemetery.
With the return of the expat population and parents who have been educated in the western arena in recent years, we are seeing more kids getting into the spirit of Halloween.
The Halloween tradition has always been an exciting event for kids. The opportunity to dress up in costumes and the liberty to collect unlimited amounts of “sugar” is irresistible to the kids. A word of caution: if you are bringing your kids to “Trick-or-Treat” at HDB blocks, beware that you may get fined for ‘tricking’ someone or have some unsuspecting aunty chasing you down for disturbing her peace.
So where could you bring your kids? The Asianparent team found some kid-friendly yet fun places that celebrate Halloween:
JWT Kids Gym UE Square
JWT Kids Gym is hosting their first Halloween kids bash. Kids can enjoy a make-over photo sessions, learn the ‘Thriller” dance routine, have a “Hogwarts” style dinner, take part in spooky-fun relays, watch magic shows and G-rated movies.
This is a drop-off event for kids only. Dress your kids up, include a bottle of water, pajamas, a blanket, a pillow and a show and tell item in their bag and bring them down to JWT Kids.
For theAsianparent reader, bring along a printed copy of this feature and enjoy $10 off the entry price. For more information, call 6333-8511 or e-mail funnergym@jwtkids-singapore.com
Venue: UE Square Branch – 81 Clemenceau Avenue, #02-12, Singapore 239917
Date: 30th October 2010 (Saturday)
Time: 5pm to 10pm
Tickets: $89
Recommended Age: Children 4 years old and above
Go-Go Bambini
The people at Go-Go Bambini always throw in everything they have to these parties as they make it a point to make sure that the kids are having a genuinely exciting time. Expect fun activities that include games, disco-dancing and savory party foods, as well as fantastic goodie bags that will delight your child.
If your kids need a break from the partying, they can always go to the Café at Go-Go Bambini to get some siesta while you get some Halloween goodies or a Latte for yourself.
Every year, Go–Go Bambini provides the kids with a Halloween themed cake that never fails to shock. Last year, they provided a ‘Gruesome Cake’, which looked like it had a plastic head sticking out of it
Go-Go Bambini was voted the No.1 choice for the Indoor Kids Awards 2009 and is well-known for being Singapore’s favorite birthday party venue.
Venue: Block 8 Dempsey Road, #01-15 Dempsey Hill, Singapore 247696
Date: 31st October 2010 (Sunday)
Time: 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.
Tickets can be bought at the reception for $35 or you may call 6474 4176 for more information. Ages: Children up to 11 years old
McDonalds Alocassia
McDonald’s parties are always accompanied with a guarantee that your child will have a swell time. With no age-restrictions, both the young and old can attend this Halloween event and enjoy the festivity as a family.
Your kids can look forward to door gifts, an iconic happy meal, coloring competitions, a lucky draw and meeting Ronald McDonald. Your kids will also get a chance to meet Mr. Monopoly from the famed Hasbro game, Monopoly at the party. In addition, those who have the best dressed costumes may win fantastic prizes!
You will also be lovin this deal: get the ‘6pc Chicken McNuggets’ pack at only S$2 on both the Halloween nights at McDonald’s Alocassia.
Venue: McDonald’s Alocassia, 383 Bukit Timah Rd, #01-09B, Alocassia Apartments, Singapore (259727)
Date: 30th (Saturday) and 31st October 2010 (Saturday)
Time: 6.30pm to 9.30pm
Tickets: $10 per child
Ages: All ages
For enquiries and registration, call 6887 4961.
Wherever you choose to celebrate Halloween, I’m sure all of you will have a ghoulish, fun time! Share your photos with us by posting them on our facebook fanpage www.facebook.com/asiaparent!