Getting engaged in the poetry works to touring the Istana Main Building, this weekend has different shades to offer to match up with your mood and taste. So, pick your choice from the list here.
1. Migrant Tales
Through the power of strong and hypnotic poetry, The Migrant Tales aims to form a union between migrant Bengali workers in Singapore and the audience. Hosted by BooksActually and translated by Debabrota Basu, this event features the works of 18 poets, followed by a discussion and questions at the end of the session.
When: January 29, at 4:00pm
Where: BooksActually, Tiong Bahru Estate, 9 Yong Siak St, Singapore – 168645
Entry: Free
2. Port Cities: Multicultural Emporiums of Asia
Showcasing over 180 artefacts from eight countries, Port Cities trace the beginnings of trade and globalisation, and how the exchange of people, goods and ideas came to be across the Asian continent. Each work is challenging the notion of globalisation as a ‘new’ concept. Then chart the stories of lives led within the communities of Goa, Bombay, Manila and Guangzhou’s then-Canton.
When: January 27-31, at 10:00am
Where: Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, Singapore – 179555
Entry: Free-S$23
3. Ocarina House
Indra and Wanlin grew up playing music and have been performing together since. Wanlin is the founder of Ocarina House. She has conducted extensive workshops since the group was founded in 2014. It is her vision to see communities, families and friends bond through the simple and delicate art of ocarina playing. The ocarina and guzheng duo will perform renditions of Chinese New Year classics as well as their own arrangements of popular tunes.
When: January 28, at 6:45pm and 7:30pm
Where: Esplanade Concourse
Entry: Free
4. River Hongbao
Dazzle in the iconic Chinese New Year event with a performance by local heartthrob Nathan Hartono, delicious food stalls, and shows. There's also an amusement park to keep the tots entertained: think arcade and carnival games like bumper cars, a mini Ferris wheel and inflatable slides. To add to it, a fireworks and laser show takes place at night.
When: January 27-31, at 2:00pm
Where: The Float@Marina Bay
Entry: Free
5. Istana Nature Guided Walk
For five times a year — that’s Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day, National Day, and Deepavali — the Istana opens its gates to the public. This year, aside from touring the Istana Main Building (for a small fee), you can also take guided tours through the gardens (also with a small fee). Use this opportunity to teach the little ones about flora and fauna, and maybe learn a bit about our history while you’re there.
When: January 29, at 10:00am
Where: Istana, Office of the President of the Republic of Singapore
Entry: S$2-10