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How to do Deepavali in Singapore with kids

I’m Severine, an expat in Singapore, a chocolate lover and travel enthusiast, and mum to two energetic boys; Nathan, 7, and Quentin, 10. We’ve been living in the Lion City for five years, and the island’s mix of cultures has amazed me from the moment we arrived. I quickly fell in love with the island and became fascinated by its history and rich traditions.

We are French, but we make sure to celebrate all of Singapore’s major festivals. It’s a fantastic way for us to learn about different beliefs as a family. We make a big deal out of Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, and Deepavali, but with so many celebrations throughout the year, it’s challenging to fit them all in!

One of our favourite times is Deepavali (Diwali), the Festival of Lights. Taking place from 29 October – 3 November this year, it’s a special period for Indians to celebrate light winning over darkness. This message is especially meaningful for kids, reminding them to stay strong when things are tough.

Celebrating Deepavali with your children can be fun and educational. It’s a good chance to learn about Indian culture and the things we have in common with people from all around the globe. Living in Singapore, Nathan and Quentin are exposed to different languages and cultures every day, which helps them to become more open-minded. Read on for some ideas of activities to do with your kids during this year’s five-day Deepavali celebration.

Left: Pop into the Indian Heritage Centre

Day 1: Out & About

Traditionally, people clean their homes and shop for new clothes to wear during the festivities to bring good fortune. Some may buy gold and kitchen utensils as well. If cleaning doesn’t sound like fun, Deepavali is the ideal opportunity to visit Little India. You can pick out decorations together. Most shops and the Festival Village along Campbell Lane sell items such as clothes, snacks, and festive trinkets. Look for peacock feathers for good luck, flower garlands, stencils, and coloured powders to make rangolis – bright, colourful, and intricate religious and symbolic designs. If your children enjoy dressing up, you can find beautiful Indian outfits for them too. While you’re there, pay a visit to these:

  • Sri Veerama Kaliamman Temple: This vibrant temple offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Hindu deities and their significance. Ask your children who can discover the most statues while appreciating the artistry and symbolism of each ( 141 Serangoon Road, 218042)
  • Indian Heritage Centre: Check their website for special Deepavali activities like dance shows or workshops for kids ( indianheritage.gov.sg)
  • Little India murals: There are fantastic murals in this area, and they offer a unique way to discover Indian culture and history. We love ‘tHIS is our STORY’ by Yip Yew Chong (Lembu Square), ‘Traditional Trades of Little India’ by Psyfool (Belilios Lane) and ‘Kathaka’ by Didier Mathieu (Upper Dickson Road)
  • Indian snacks & sweets: Grab some yummy fare at the food bazaar or try sweet treats from a local shop. Komala Vilas Sweets ( 4 Upper Dickson Road, 207464) has a wide variety. If you don’t like crowds, do these activities on weekends leading up to Deepavali, as Little India gets busy during the celebrations

Day 2: Decorations

  • People decorate their homes with clay lamps and rangolis. Locals create these stunning floor designs made with coloured powders, which can be quite complicated. Get ideas by watching YouTube with your kids. There are also stencils available from Mustafa Centre ( 145 Syed Alwi Road, 207704) or Lazada ( lazada.sg)
  • Pick a spot and place the stencil on the floor (or a sturdy plate if you’re worried about the mess)
  • Sprinkle some powder over the stencil and gently rub it in
  • Carefully lift the stencil. Ta-da!

If you don’t have stencils, encourage your children to draw mandalas instead. (See above image).

  1. Draw a small circle.
  2. Think of it as a compass. Add triangles that point to North, South, East, and West.
  3. Add triangle points in between North, South, East, and West so you’ve got eight spaces to play with.
  4. Add a circle to the end of each triangle.
  5. Keep building your mandala! Each time you add something, be sure to include it in all eight slices of the pie. You can add circles, domes, triangles, squares, lines, waves, and outlines. This process keeps kids focused and calm.

Day 3: Party time!

The main day of Deepavali is all about family coming together and enjoying a big meal. Dress up for the occasion! Put on those clothes you bought in Little India, or wear bright, festive colours to celebrate. Order Indian food at home or visit a nearby Indian restaurant. My boys love egg or cheese prata (flatbreads), Murukku (crunchy and twisted deep-fried snacks made from chickpea flour and spices), and Ladoo (sweet balls made with flour, sugar, and ghee – the Indian butter). Don’t forget to light up your diyas! These clay lamps bring good fortune to your home.

Day 4: Happy New Year!

This is the first day of the new year, when friends and relatives visit with gifts.

Left: Nathan and Quentin embrace the festive spirit

Day 5: Creative Cooking

Traditionally, brothers visit their married sisters on this day, but if you’re not doing visitations, this is a chance to get creative in the kitchen. There are many easy Indian snack recipes online. Nathan and Quentin like making Nankhatai, a light, crisp, and delicious eggless cookie.

Play a guessing game with spices while you cook. Take a few common Indian spices (like star anise, coriander seeds, cloves, and cardamom), grind them up, and let your kids smell and try each one. Then, mix them together and see if your kids can identify each spice by smell, sight, and taste. Blindfold them for an extra challenge!

Severine Male is the founder of KiddoTrip, a self-guided tour platform for families.
 kiddotrip.com

Perfect weekends at Marlborough College Malaysia

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There is the option to take part in creative pursuits such as ceramics

When the last bell rings on Friday afternoon, it signals the start of another fun-packed weekend for boarders at Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) – a time when the campus community gathers together to enjoy a range of enriching experiences with friends. And with the addition of even more weekend activities on offer, pupils are relishing the chance to explore new hobbies, from kayaking to ceramics, to climbing and lifesaving skills.

Each Saturday morning, boarders start their day with a buffet breakfast in the dining hall before diving into their chosen activity, specifically tailored for their age group. Pupils can opt for either “active” or “creative” pursuits, ensuring that they find something that matches their interests, as well as giving them the chance to learn something new. Over the course of five weeks, pupils are guided by specialist teachers and taught the basic skills needed before being set a final challenge. For instance, boarders may learn how to kayak and paddleboard on the college lake before taking part in a final skills test, or they might learn how to operate a pottery wheel before making their own ceramics.

“Pupils enjoy a truly holistic education and become all-rounders”

Pupils enjoy new experiences such as learning to paddleboard on the college lake

University & beyond

Mr. Tolba, Boarding Activities Co-ordinator at MCM, explained that “the benefits of expanding our boarding activities programme means that pupils enjoy a truly holistic education and become all-rounders, gaining experiences in all kinds of activities and building skills that will help prepare them for university and beyond.”

As well as the offerings on Saturday morning, boarders also have the opportunity to participate in weekend trips such as going to the cinema, visiting Legoland, or taking a day trip to Singapore. There is also time to simply relax and enjoy the college facilities, and many boarders make use of the swimming pool, sports pitches, and tennis courts.

MCM’s dedication to the evolving weekend programme for boarders is part of its award-winning pastoral and boarding care, which has recently led to the opening of two additional boarding houses this academic year. Boarders enjoy a real “home-from-home’ experience”, with plenty of teachers living on campus, creating a supportive community that pupils love. With so much fun to be had, it’s easy to see why boarders at MCM thoroughly enjoy their weekends.

To find out more about boarding at Marlborough College Malaysia email admissions@marlboroughcollege.my or visit www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org for more information.

 

 

Marlborough College Malaysia
 +60 7 560 2200
 www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org
 Marlborough College Malaysia
 mcmalaysia
 @MarlboroughMCM
 Marlborough College Malaysia

AIS student, 6, bikes 128km around Singapore for Cambodian children

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Six year old Australian International School (AIS) student AJ is a girl who knows what’s important in life.

During a trip to Cambodia earlier this year, AJ and her family visited the Angkor Kids Centre, a non-profit organisation providing English language and computer literacy education to children in rural areas.

AJ saw firsthand how previous book donations from AIS were helping the local children. The visit also involved donating sports gear, which was warmly received. AJ learned about the challenging conditions the students face, such as walking long distances to attend English classes after a full day at their regular schools. Despite the difficulties, the children take pride in maintaining their classroom, even sweeping it clean before each session.

Fundraising ideas

AJ was moved by the students’ determination and the challenges they face, especially the deteriorating state of the AKC’s facilities. The roof at the Angkor Kids Centre is in poor condition, and the solar power system’s batteries are old and unreliable.

Determined to help, AJ discussed fundraising ideas with her parents, ultimately deciding on a biking challenge that would test her limits. The goal was ambitious: complete the entire 128km loop around Singapore within 10 days, all while attending school during the day. AJ gave up her usual after-school activities to focus on biking, committing to cycling every day to achieve her target.

The fundraising goal was set at SG$5,000 (approximately USD$3,740), with all proceeds going directly to AKC for critical repairs and resources.

AJ’s challenge quickly garnered attention and support from her school community and beyond. It not only raised awareness but also inspired others to contribute to the cause.

AJ completed a 128 km ride in 8 days, surpassing her target. Her efforts raised significant funds to repair AKC’s roof, replace solar batteries, and support staffing needs for students. AJ’s journey shows how even the youngest can make a significant impact through compassion and determination.

What a star you are AJ!

 

ANZA Soccer October Camp 14 – 17 October

ANZA Soccer

ANZA Soccer October Camp

The camp runs for four days and welcome all ANZA members, including children who do not currently play soccer with ANZA, and non-members. The camp will be conducted by our professional coaches, and offer a blend of skills training, fitness activities, and enjoyable games.

Encourage your friends to join so they can also enjoy our fantastic program. It’s an excellent opportunity for them to discover what makes ANZA Soccer unique.

Regardless of the weather conditions, the camps will proceed as scheduled – in case of inclement weather, please remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes.

Date: 14 – 17 October
Time: 
9:00am to 1:00pm
Venue:
The Cage Dempsey
Ages: 
6 to 14 years old
Cost:
$350 per camp

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ANZA Ladies Night @ LeVeL33 Wednesday 23 October

ANZA Ladies Night LeVeL33

ANZA Ladies Night is going PINK in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. Join us and raise awareness for an essential cause.

For ANZA’s October Ladies Night there’s only one thing for it: put on your favourite shades of pink – whether it’s a fabulous fushia dress, a chic cerise blazer, or your sassiest shades of scarlet – and join us to paint the town pink in support of Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF). Pink Ribbon pins will be available on the night with donations going BCF.

The fun takes place at LeVeL33 on Wednesday, 23 October. Located atop Marina Bay Financial Centre, this panoramic rooftop venue offers craft beers (from their in-house brewery) alongside a great selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails. Come along from 6.30pm – 9.30pm for hot discounts, to hang out with our community, and for a few bevvies (including a special Pink Ribbon cocktail) against the stunning backdrop of the Marina Bay skyline.

Here’s what’s in store:

  • LeVeL33 Craft Beers $10 nett
  • Prosecco $10 nett
  • Pinot and Sauvignon $10 nett each
  • LeVel33 Cocktails $12 nett
  • Blond-ie (a signature beer cocktail) $12 nett
  • Pink Ribbon Cocktail $12 nett

Flying solo or with a gaggle of girlfriends, the ANZA team will be there to welcome you on the night!

Time : 6:30pm – 9.30pm
Venue: LeVeL33, 8 Marina Boulevard #33-01, Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1, Singapore 018981

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Don’t miss these events in SG

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month globally. To highlight the importance of staying savvy and well informed about this disease that impacts women all around the world, a range of initiatives are taking place to raise both funds and awareness about breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) has adopted the theme “Stronger Together,” celebrating the resilience of survivors and the dedication of caregivers. Here’s a look at some key events you can participate in here in Singapore throughout October.

Walk for a cause this month. Image: Breast Cancer Foundation

Pink Ribbon Walk 2024

Join the Pink Ribbon Walk, a community event designed to raise awareness and support for those affected by breast cancer. This walk encourages participants to unite in solidarity while learning about the critical role BCF plays in advocacy and support initiatives. It’s not just about walking; it’s a chance to connect with others and celebrate the strength of the breast cancer community. Together, we can amplify the message of hope and resilience for those facing this challenge.

Saturday, 26 October 2024. 5pm. More info and registration here

UFIT Stronger Than Cancer: 24-Hour Charity Fitness Marathon

Get ready to sweat for a good cause at UFIT’s 24-hour fitness marathon. This marathon includes a wide range of classes, from cardio and strength training to specialised sessions designed for cancer survivors, ensuring everyone can find a way to contribute. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with the community while prioritising health and fitness, all for a meaningful cause. Every move you make helps support vital programmes for those impacted by breast cancer.

5 October, 12pm – 6 October 2024, 12pm.  UFIT Club Street, 21 Club St, #01-01, 069410. Register here

Get yourself checked. Image: Cancer Society Clinic

Free Mammograms at Singapore Cancer Society Clinic

Early detection is crucial for breast cancer survival, and the Singapore Cancer Society Clinic offers free mammograms to women aged 50 and above. This initiative emphasizes the importance of regular screenings and aims to eliminate financial barriers that may prevent women from seeking essential care. By providing these services, the clinic is making strides in the fight against breast cancer, ensuring that more women have access to life-saving resources. Do note, this service is by appointment only.

Singapore Cancer Society Clinic, 9 Bishan Place, #06-05 Junction 8 Office Tower, 579837. More info here

Healing in Crisis and Beyond: Yoga, Sound Bath & Sharing Circle

This wellness event is tailored for breast cancer survivors and their friends, offering a serene space to heal and connect. Led by experienced facilitators, participants will engage in a soothing yoga session followed by healing sound therapy, fostering both physical and emotional well-being. Attendees will also have the chance to share their stories and experiences in a supportive environment, helping to build a strong community network. In addition, various booths will provide valuable resources, including free screenings and educational materials.

13 October 2024, 3pm – 6pm. Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, 392 Havelock Road, 169663. Register here

Understanding Breast Cancer: Prevention, Detection & Treatment

Join this informative evening at Mandala Club dedicated to breast cancer education featuring expert speakers who will share insights and answer questions. This event aims to equip attendees with crucial knowledge about breast cancer, covering essential topics such as prevention strategies, early detection, and treatment options. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from professionals who are passionate about educating the community and dispelling myths surrounding breast cancer. Engaging in this dialogue can empower individuals to take charge of their health and support those affected by the disease.

10 October 2024, 6:30pm – 8:30pm. Get your tickets here

 

Hotspots: Botany

Where are we heading, and why?

The heart of Robertson Quay, where BOTANY has just unveiled its ‘Brand New, Same Old’ transformation. Spot the stylish, sun-drenched space by the riverside, ready to welcome locals and travellers alike.

What’s the story behind it?
Launched in 2019 by Cassandra Riene, BOTANY has been a sanctuary blending health-conscious dining with comfort food. After five years, it’s back with a fresh look, but the heart of the place – wellness, inclusivity, and community – remains unchanged. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or a meat lover, BOTANY has something for everyone.

First impressions?
Light, airy, and oh-so-inviting! BOTANY’s new space feels like a calm oasis in the bustle of the city. The natural light floods in, creating a cosy yet uplifting atmosphere. You’ll instantly want to settle in for a leisurely meal, especially with the forest-inspired personality quiz waiting at your table (perfect for sparking a few laughs with friends).

How’s the atmosphere?
Warm, laid-back, and effortlessly cool. By day, BOTANY is your go-to spot for coffee and brunch, but by night, it transforms into a sleek lounge. Whether you’re catching up with friends or celebrating something special, BOTANY feels like the perfect setting for any occasion.

And the food?
A fusion feast! BOTANY’s revamped menu is an East-meets-West delight. Start with the Otah Fritters – a wholesome take on classic fish paste – and the Gochujang Cauli for a crunchy, spicy snack. For mains, the standout is the ‘Hae Mi’ Pasta, a decadent twist on prawn noodles with a rich, umami-packed bisque. Plant-based eaters will love the Impossible Rendang Meatballs – a vegetarian spin on the aromatic classic, or the fan-favourite Impossible Mapo Tofu Bowl, a comforting dish packed with Szechuan flavours.

What about the drinks?
BOTANY’s cocktail game is strong. Sip on the refreshing Lemon Tree with lemon, honey, and beer, or go for Dancing Petals, a playful mix of assam tea, raspberry, and whiskey. For something floral, Rose from the Grey blends Earl Grey with lychee and rosemary. Prefer alcohol-free? Mocktail versions are available too, keeping things light and fun.

When to go?
Grab your girlfriends and head down for Ladies Night every Wednesday (1-for-1 Botanical cocktails, yes please!). Or hit up the Daily Free Flow at $48++, where you can enjoy house wine, beer, and Moscato to your heart’s content.

A space for every occasion
BOTANY’s new look isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about bringing people together. Whether you’re attending an event by the river or sipping cocktails with the crew, BOTANY continues to be a community hub where good food, good company, and good vibes reign.

It’s safe to say, BOTANY’s ‘Brand New, Same Old’ feels like the place we’ve always known but can’t wait to rediscover.

Botany
86 Robertson Quay #01-03, Singapore 238245
www.botany.com.sg/
www.instagram.com/botany.sg

Why private tutoring is game-changer for expat students

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There is a significant increase in international school students due to the upsurge of the global expat community. These global students often struggle to get used to a new education system, language, and curriculum. With that, extra academic support outside the classroom is needed to help these students address gaps in their studies. A private tutor can help them adjust and focus more on learning vital subjects like mathematics. Thus, private math tutors are in demand these days to assist students in their academic journey.

The Demand for Private Tutors

Challenges usually arise when expat students embark on an academic journey in a new country. They tend to get overwhelmed by the sudden changes in the curriculum, challenges in educational expectations, and language barriers. That is when private tutors come in handy as they provide all the necessary help for expat students to catch up and eventually excel in school.

To ensure their children have sufficient academic support, expat parents consider hiring private tutors. One-on-one instructors can greatly help students of international schools to adapt to the language and school syllabus, as well as to grasp important lessons in subjects such as mathematics.

How Private Math Tutor Can Help

When asked, most students would say mathematics is the toughest subject they have in school. What is even more challenging is for expat students to encounter different mathematics curricula and teaching styles while learning the subject. To help address these gaps, private math tutors are tasked to boost the confidence of expat students to learn difficult concepts at their own pace and understanding.

A private math tutor uses personalised teaching styles to assist expat students in their homework and exam preparation. They also reinforce fundamental concepts for primary and secondary students to effectively comprehend math topics such as fractions, algebra, and geometry. Indeed, these private tutors greatly impact the academic performance of expat students.

A Flexible & Customised Approach to Learning

Expat parents often hire private tutors because they have plenty of means to teach their children. They can also adjust accordingly to the schedule of the expat family, especially during relocation, travels, or school breaks. Private tutors are open to conducting learning sessions when it is most convenient for the expat students.

Aside from that, private tutors address their students’ distinct needs by creating customised learning plans. They modify their teaching style according to the progress and pace of their expat students. That way, private tutors can help their students understand a particular topic in class and prepare for examinations.

Confidence & Academic Performance Enhanced

Expat students often struggle to boost their confidence as they adjust to a new academic environment. This is where private tutors come in as they help students develop self-assurance while improving their grades. Students gain interest in learning and a sense of achievement in their academic performance when they have constant support and guidance from their private tutors.

In a one-on-one tutorial setup, students can freely ask questions, learn from their mistakes, and comprehend lessons at their own pace, unlike in a traditional classroom setting where they might feel pressured to learn rapidly. Thus, the convenience of private tutoring is considered a game-changer for students to develop an interest in learning more challenging subjects like mathematics.

Qualities of an Ideal Private Tutor

Parents should choose a private tutor that would best fit the learning needs of their children. Particularly, an ideal math tutor should have the qualities and expertise to teach an international school curriculum.

Parents can consider word of mouth, online platforms, and tutoring agencies as resources for choosing the right tutor for their children. They should also confirm if the tutor is patient, flexible, and approachable enough to give the children a supportive and motivating learning environment at home.

Expat families find it helpful to hire private tutors for their children, as engaging in one-on-one learning is beneficial for international school communities. Specifically, hiring private math tutors can help students overcome academic challenges such as bridging knowledge gaps and preparing for exams. The supportive presence of private tutors is indeed a game-changer in guiding expat students to be confident in achieving milestones in their academic journey.

Are you looking for a private tutor to help your child excel academically? Contact us today to find a tutor tailored to your child’s needs and give them the academic support they deserve.

Protecting kids from food allergies & intolerances

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Food allergies in children are growing increasingly common, with numbers rising over time. We all know someone who suffers. Naturally, parents often wonder or worry if their child is allergic to a particular food type and it can be tricky to determine the exact cause. The good news is that as the numbers of these allergies escalate, so too does our knowledge and awareness. Dr. Nithya Nahappan, a family doctor at Osler Health International with an interest in food allergies, answers some of the most common questions on the subject.

What are food allergies?
Food allergies occur when the immune system treats a particular food as an “invader,” triggering a reaction. Food allergies can be categorised as either immediate or delayed. The most frequent type of immediate reaction food allergies are to egg, milk, nuts, fish, sesame, and shellfish. For delayed-type allergies, the most usual suspects are milk and soy.

Are food allergies genetic?
Allergies to specific foods themselves are not inherited. Just because you are allergic to eggs, for example, does not mean that your child will be. However, it does mean that your child could inherit an “allergic tendency” to develop food allergies or other allergic problems like hay fever, asthma, or eczema.

Is lactose intolerance a type of food allergy?
Lactose intolerance is a food intolerance, which is different from a food allergy. Unlike allergies, intolerances do not involve the immune system. However, they can still make people feel extremely stressed out and unwell with a wide range of symptoms, from skin manifestations to palpitations and headaches. Other common food intolerances include reactions to gluten, food additives, and vasoactive amines, including histamine.

Advice for concerned parents

  • Trust your instincts
    If you think your child might be allergic or intolerant to a food, speak to your doctor, even if you are not certain of what the cause might be. The diagnostic process can take time, but it is important that it is done with an experienced clinician to avoid unnecessarily excluding important and essential nutrients
  • Be cautious of IgG allergy testing
    This type of testing is not scientifically supported by expert medical groups around the world, although it is widely offered as a food allergy or intolerance test. Assuming allergy or intolerance based on these tests can be misleading
  • Eczema and “allergic families” Speak to your doctor if your child
    has severe eczema in the first year of life or if you have family members with asthma, environmental allergies, and eczema

Dr Nithya Nahappan is a British GP with a background in mental health care and childhood allergies. Dr Nithya is based at Osler’s Raffles Hotel Arcade clinic.

 

 

 

Osler Health International
328 North Bridge Road
#02-27 & #02-34 Raffles Hotel Arcade, Singapore 188719
 Whats App: 9670 7027
  raffles@osler-health.com

 

What’s on in Singapore this October

Rock up for beery good times at Brotzeit this month. Image: Brotzeit

Bring on the beer!

Can’t get to Munich, Bavaria this month? Let it come to you in the shape of Oktoberfest. Several outlets are putting on a show to celebrate the festival.  Grab your mates,  Lederhosen (optional), and a party spirit, and head to some of these spots holding Oktoberfest events for 2024.

* Brotzeit

From now until 27 October, Brotzeit Singapore will be celebrating 18 years of serving authentic German cuisine. This year a beer-thirsty bunch can enjoy beats by a European DJ while dining on the tastiest German food. Kids can have fun with some balloon sculpting, and everyone can marvel at the guest appearance by a young Austrian yodeller!

Locations include Westgate, Vivocity and Katong.brotzeit.co

* Cosford Container Park 

Dive into a hearty sausage platter, Grilled Bratwurst Hot Dog, Pork Schnitzel and more at the first Oktoberfest at Cosford Container Park. Running from now until 31 October, it’s an ideal spot for families. There’ll also be Oktoberfest-inspired games, a weekend market, mini carnival games and free Bavarian Hat Origami workshop.

Cosford Container Park, 30 Cosford Road, 499550. cosfordcontainerpark.com

* Little Island Brewing Co.

Taking place from 4 – 6 October 2024, prepare for a complete German-inspired experience at new hipster spot, Little Island Brewing Co. thanks to their special menu (Pork Bratwurst, the Schweinshaxe, and German Pork Knuckle for the win!), live music, and innovative ice-cold German beers. Start light with the Naked Lager (Helles), followed by the Hefeweizen (German wheat beer), and finally the King Kolsch. The bonus? You can also take your pets to the pet-friendly Changi Village outpost. 

6 Changi Village Road, #01-01/02, 509907. libc.co

* Crossroads Cafe

Soak up good vibes at Crossroads Cafe’s Oktoberfest 2024, where you can sip on Erdinger Weissbier draft beer on tap, priced at $18++ per pint and $30++ for two pints. Book a table with your friends and indulge in hearty bar bites, sharing plates and signature dishes.

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, 320 Orchard Road, 238865, crossroadssg.com

* The Kitchen Table

The Kitchen Table’s first Oktoberfest shindig takes place from 5 – 6 October. Book a spot for authentic Bavarian dishes at their Sunday Brunch featuring Black Forest Ham with gherkins and radish, German Potato Salad and more. There’s also live entertainment including a DJ and a magician! 

W Singapore, Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way, Sentosa, 098374. thekitchentable.sg

Don’t miss this inaugural exhibition of Studio Ghibli. Image: Art Science Museum

The World of Studio Ghibli

For the first time in Singapore, ArtScience Museum brings  The World of Studio Ghibli to the masses this October. Guests will embark on a journey into the fantastical realms created by the Japanese animation powerhouse, and with 11 galleries spanning 2,400sqm, it’s going to keep everyone busy and entertained with well-loved Studio Ghibli films. There’ll be a cool retail store on site too so remember stop by for the merch!

4 October – 2 February 2025. ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, 018974. Book tickets here

Head waterside throughout October for activities. Image: Singapore River Festival

Rolling down the river

The Singapore River Festival is back this 4 – 13 October with a line-up of light shows (8pm to 10pm daily), music performances, heritage games and more. Take a stroll down the riverbanks of Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay to find life-sized traditional games like pick-up sticks and aeroplane chess. You’ll also find bumboat rides, pet food workshops and cute photobooths!

Various locations. srf.sg

Step into the stunning world of Swan Lake. Image: Esplanade

Anyone for ballet?

Prefer ballet to beer? Esplanade Theatre is hosting An Introduction To Swan Lake with  matinee and evening performaces on 5 October. This educational ballet series is an ideal weekend jaunt for the whole family, telling the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette, who is cursed to transform into a swan and can only take human form for a few hours at night. There’s the chance to meet the cast for a meet-and-greet and photos afterwards.

1 Esplanade Drive, 038981. Book tickets here

One for fans of animation. Image: Cartoon Underground

Animation Station

Calling all cool kids! If you love animation, Cartoons Underground is a yearly event celebrating films and moving image. Taking place on 19 October this year, the selected films explore themes of body positivity, good and evil, mental health, and more. Attendees get to meet the directors and there’s also a masterclass on horror animation.

Golden Village x The Projector at Cineleisure, #05-01, Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, 239695. theprojector.sg/cineleisure