Istana Open House 2023: What to Look Forward to Before Your Visit

Recognised as one of the oldest heritage sites in Singapore, The Istana (a Malay word meaning “palace”) served as the official residence of 21 British governors who ruled the city-state during the colonial period. At present, The Istana has been designated the office of the President of the Republic of Singapore.

Considering its national significance, locals and tourists alike eagerly anticipate the presidential palace’s annual open house to get a glimpse of its regal splendour.

This 2023, you can witness what’s inside Istana Singapore’s Neo-Palladian style building. The complete schedule of the open house will probably be based on these five major public holidays – Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day, and National Day. 

Last Jan. 23, Istana open house coincided with the celebration of Lunar New Year, when the public enjoyed the newly renovated Swan Pond, complete with a new garden stream and viewing deck. There were also live performances, activity booths, guided tours, and snacks and merchandise kiosks.

After the Chinese New Year, the next Istana Open House will most likely happen during the Hari Raya Puasa, which will fall on April 22. This will be followed by Labour Day on May 1, National Day on Aug. 9, and Deepavali on Nov. 12. The exact dates and times for the succeeding Istana House Open will be announced soon.

In the meantime, here are some important things to know prior to your visit to The Istana.

Admission Procedures and Entry Fees

The Istana Open House entrance is strictly through the Main Gate on Orchard Road. Upon entering the Istana Main Building, there is a charge of S$2 that must be paid to participate in either the Guided Tour or the Nature Guided Tour. Children under four years old are eligible for free admission.

Souvenirs

Guests can purchase limited-edition souvenirs from merchandise booths present during the open house. Only cashless payments via Singapore Quick Response Code (SGQR) are accepted.

All proceeds will be given to charities supported by the President’s Challenge. Some of the memorabilia you can snag are caps, mugs, postcards, luggage tags, umbrellas, keychains, and notebooks, to name a few.

Volunteer Opportunity

Those willing to volunteer during the Hari Raya - Labour Day Istana Open House on May 1 may coordinate with Youthbank. Volunteers are expected to “provide hospitality support to make visitors feel welcome, attend to their queries and manage the merchandise booths.” To sign up, go here.

Don’t’s

• Bringing sharp and pointed objects, flammable items, and canned goods.
• Re-entry to the Main Building
• Eating or drinking inside the palace
• Taking photos or videos during the tour
• Use of restroom facilities within the Main Building
• Smoking and littering
• Wheeled-sport activities (cycling, rollerblading, riding Personal Mobility Devices)
• Bringing pets or animals

For more information about Istana Open House, visit its official website.

Location: The Istana, Orchard Road (near Plaza Singapura), Singapore