Christmas is a time of festivities and one of best occasions in the year that you can celebrate with family and friends. Most of us associate the occasion with buying and receiving Christmas gifts, yummy food and Christmas carols. Most places also put up special events and shows to celebrate the occasion – and Singapore is no exception.
If you live in Singapore or are visiting the country around Christmas, there are plenty of unique experiences you can enjoy. The holiday is not cold and snowy but warm and pleasant so even outdoor activities can be enjoyed.
In this article, we share five unique things to do when celebrating Christmas in Singapore:
Christmas Shopping Madness
Singapore is well known around the world as a shopping destination where you can find almost anything. At Christmas shopping becomes even more exciting as shopping malls compete for the annual Best Dressed Building award. All the shopping malls are decorated beautifully with festive decorations. They also usually have carollers, fake snow and reindeer.
But the best part is the huge discounts you can get and the extended shopping hours. Of course, there’s going to be a rush but if you don’t mind that then it can be an incredible experience. You can head to the stretch of Orchard Road encompassing Ion, Wisma Atria, Ngee Ann City and Paragon malls. Further still would be the newer malls like Orchard Central, Mandarin Gallery and 313@Somerset.
Christmas Sunset Cruise
If you want a relaxing experience with friends and family you can head to the beautiful Christmas Sunset Cruise by the Royal Albatross. Guests can bring their loved ones to partake in Xmas festivities on board the Royal Albatross, sailing into the sunset amidst sleigh bells, baubles, and mistletoe.
Cruise through the deep waters of Singapore between the coastline and the Southern Islands for a tropical Christmas. While on board you can enjoy a delicious Christmas buffet and exciting entertainment for the entire family.
The sail promises to be a time of fun and laughter for the family to celebrate together. This Christmas, the Royal Albatross is opening two Christmas Sail dates on December 22 and 23.
Visit a Church
If you would like to attend a mass on Christmas then Singapore has some lovely historical churches. You can visit one with your family and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all the big churches in Singapore conduct religious services.
If you are close to Orchard Road then most the churches are in the vicinity. This includes St Andrew’s Cathedral, which is Singapore’s largest church. You can also visit St Joseph’s church and admire its beautiful stained glass windows. Another historical church is the Armenian Church which is Singapore’s oldest and is surrounded by beautiful grounds.
Enjoy a 'Snow' Storm
If you are wondering where the snow going to come from in Singapore don’t worry! This not snow but foamy soap bubbles. During December, every evening from 7:30–8pm the Tanglin Mall conducts this fun entertainment for kids. The Christmas display outside the mall is showered with foam that looks exactly like snow. Great fun for adults and kids alike!
Feast at a Christmas Buffet
All-you-can-eat buffet style meals are very popular in Singapore and most hotels have them for Christmas too. At Christmas, buffets are in full festive season mode and the menu will be full of delicious food. Along with family and friends you can gorge on an endless assortment of glazed ham and turkey and scrumptious Christmas delicacies and cakes.
Singaporeans eat lunch early, so plant to reach your chosen buffet before 12.30. Popular options for a Christmas buffet are Goodwood Park Hotel, Raffles Hotel, and the Ritz Carlton. Also popular is the Marina Mandarin Hotel and its “fusion” Christmas buffet.