Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at the 'Play:Date' Pop-Up
Singapore/ Ohana/ Family

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at the 'Play:Date' Pop-Up in Singapore

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at the Play Date Pop Up in Singapore Photo by National Museum of Singapore

In case you missed it, there’s an exhibit in Singapore where you can relive your fondest childhood memories!

Running until Jan. 5, 2025, at the National Museum of Singapore, the toy-themed experiential pop-up “Play:Date - Unlocking Cabinets of Play” brings your favorite toys, from dolls and mini-cars to gaming consoles, to life with an immersive exhibit for kids and kids-at-heart.

The pop-up opens with the museum’s exterior, decorated with five large-scale commissioned artworks made by five local artists, which showcase the journey of collecting and the joy of playing with toys.

Exterior Hoarding Artworks at National Museum of Singapore
Photo by National Museum of Singapore

Inside, visitors will be greeted by a tunnel that displays a digital parade of toy figurines made by local artist Lioncolony, which are inspired by a selection of toys from the 1950s to the 2000s.

The exhibit also features a collection of over 250 locally and globally recognizable toys from the 1980s to today, which are divided into three sections: “It’s a Small World,” which features miniature character figurines from brands like Disney, Barbie, McDonald's, and more; “Drive Through Time,” with mini-cars and toys from familiar brands like Hot Wheels, Tamiya, and Matchbox; and “Batteries Included,” which displays iconic digital games such as Tamagotchi, special handheld consoles by Nintendo and Casio, and more.

Immersive Tunnel at 'Play:Date - Unlocking Cabinets of Play'
Photo by National Museum of Singapore
'It's a Small World' at 'Play:Date' Pop-Up Exhibit
Photo by National Museum of Singapore

For a more exciting experience, “Play:Date” also has several interactive experiences for its visitors, inspired by old-school gaming arcades. Here, visitors can purchase tokens and play arcade games such as Memory Match, Roadblock Highway, and more. Visitors can also view an 8-bit image of themselves via the “8bitfy Screen,” featuring a retro 8-bit filter layered over the screen.

Guests can also create their own personalized avatar at the “Discover Your Play-sonality" section, where they can pick from four digital toy avatars with different personality types and physical appearances to create their very own “Play:Mate.” This is accompanied by a photo booth, where they can take snaps with their “Play:Mate” and get physical photo printouts.

'Discover Your Play-sonality' Screen at 'Play:Date'
Photo by National Museum of Singapore

Entrance to the pop-up is free. However, fees apply for the digital gamified experiences within the exhibit.

All of these and more await at the “Play:Date” pop-up in Singapore! For more information, you can visit the National Museum of Singapore’s website.

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This Week's Event In Singapore

Singapore/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness
This SG Support Group Encourages Men to Redefine Masculinity
Snapinst app 467515878 18022719353559159 5755368281788506125 n 1080 Photo by The Brothers Circle/Instagram

Sad as it is to admit, toxic masculinity is a universal experience. Men and women are both victims of outdated, misogynistic views that perpetuate harmful behaviors; sadly, in Singapore, things are no different. Despite its urban landscapes and cosmopolitan lifestyle, Singaporeans remain relatively conservative, with traditional views shaping much of its citizens’ lifestyles. Among these traditional views is the institutionalization of a heteronormative family structure, which is closely linked to notions of societal progress.

“In Singapore, traditional masculinity is closely linked to economic growth and productivity,” shared Hafeez Hassan, fitness coach, personal trainer, and the founder of The Brothers Circle.

“The masculine experience and connection are often centered around the pursuit of achieving or producing tangible results through hard work and dedication,” he added.

This view has caused traditional heteronormative values to become deeply embedded in both public and private aspects of Singaporean society; expectations for both men and women have become clearly defined, placing plenty of pressure on both parties. Here, men are expected to provide for the family and embody male traits such as strength, assertiveness, stoicism, and dominance.

Yet, problems arise as people are expected to face life’s challenges without sharing their struggles, prioritizing results over well-being. All this pressure has manifested in both an identity crisis and a mental health crisis. In fact, in 2022, two-thirds of all suicide deaths in Singapore were attributed to male victims.

“It’s hard to generalize the topics as they are very diverse. One thing for sure I can share is that it’s always related to stress,” noted Hafeez.

A portrait of Hafeez
A portrait of Hafeez | Instagram/The Brothers Circle

This is among the handful of reasons that Hafeez founded The Brothers Circle, a male support group and community of men who aim to redefine masculinity, get in touch with their authentic selves, and offer support to fellow brothers. At first, Hafeez had simply wanted a space to connect with like-minded men and to learn more about diverse perspectives on life.

“Little did I realize that this unique gathering could offer profound healing!” he smiled.

“Singapore is a collectivist country and so often feel as if who they or how they present themselves is representative of their entire family or community,” Hafeez explained in a previous interview. “So it’s very hard for men to do what they want or be authentic. Some have difficulty in following their own career path or spiritual beliefs. Some gay men also find it difficult to step out of the closet.”

Due to these difficulties, male support groups have become a burgeoning community in Singapore. At The Brothers Circle, Hafeez and other community members offer meditation classes, movement classes, and gatherings where men can share their stories in a safe and comfortable environment. For many, this type of support is a breath of fresh air and is a step away from the pressure they feel to conform to stereotypes.

“In my opinion, the most prevalent issue [men deal with] is discomfort with one’s own skin,” shared Hafeez. “The most effective approach to addressing this issue is to identify the childhood experiences that instilled a sense of safety and build upon those foundations.”

Hafeez’ approach to tackling such discomfort is comprehensive and encompasses mental, physical, and emotional aspects. “I believe that men, in general, recognize that help is always available; it's just a matter of searching for it online,” he mused. “The real question lies in whether we truly want to be held accountable and how competent the person responsible for that help is. It’s a complex issue, which is why I always circle back to the concept of well-being. Focusing on our well-being is the best and simplest path forward! When we prioritize our health, we naturally tend to make healthier choices in life, setting us on a positive trajectory towards fulfillment and growth.”

Everyone is welcome to join The Brothers Circle; the group mostly connects with each other online and sporadically organizes physical meetups. An upcoming “circle” will gather in February 2025; needless to say, people who are interested in getting in touch with themselves and with others are more than welcome to join. Because while the problem of toxic masculinity has yet to be solved – requiring “legislative changes and cultural mindset shifts” – it’s at least comforting to know that steps are being taken to care for those who need it.

Connect with The Brothers Circle online

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Singapore/ The List/ What's On
Singapore Cat Carnival 2025: A Purr-fect Weekend for Cat Lovers
Untitled design 2025 01 24 T122638 799 Photo by Singapore Cat Carnival/Website

Attention feline fans of all stripes! Singapore Cat Carnival 2025 is landing at Marina Bay Sands on Feb. 22 and 23, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be the ultimate feline fest.

Whether you’re a seasoned cat parent, a curious first-timer, or simply a lover of all things whiskered, this event has something for everyone.

Running from 10 AM to 8 PM, the carnival is a haven for cat owners, breeders, and fans alike, packed with activities, workshops, and expert-led sessions to deepen your appreciation and knowledge of our furry friends.

cat carnival
Website/Singapore Cat Carnival

The spotlight shines on the ISFC International Cat Grooming Certification and Competition, Singapore’s largest cat grooming showdown. This high-stakes contest draws top talent from across Asia, including Taiwan, Malaysia, and Indonesia, making it a must-see for grooming enthusiasts.

Another standout is the Breeds of the World Showcase, presented by Feline Club Singapore. Here, you’ll get up close with majestic breeds like Maine Coons, British Shorthairs, and Siberians in beautifully designed spaces. Breed-specific talks will dive into each cat’s origins, personality, and care needs, while expert handlers will be on-site to answer your burning questions.

Singapore Cat Carnival
Website/ Singapore Cat Carnival

For hands-on fun, the carnival offers workshops on essential topics like cat nutrition, healthcare, and grooming. Visitors can also book playtime slots to interact with the cats or take advantage of free services like coat consultations, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. There will also be a series of interactive contests with prizes up for grabs. Crown your pet Best Dressed Cat, Cutest Cat, and Most Talented Cat.

With a strong emphasis on education and community, the event aims to raise awareness about responsible pet-owning, ethical breeding, and the importance of adopting from a shelter, inspiring dialogue between owners and strengthening the community’s understanding of their pets.

Tickets are priced at S$6 Per day entry or S$10 for two-day entry and you can buy them here.

For more information on the Singapore Cat Carnival 2025, visit Clubpets on their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Location: Marina Bay Sands Singapore Expo & Convention Centre Level 1 Hall C

Opening Hours: Feb 22 to 23, 2025, from 10 AM to 8 PM

Admission Fee: S$6 (one day entry); S$10 (two-day entry)

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Singapore/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness
This Traditional Dance Troupe Teaches Senior Citizens the Lion Dance
Lion Dance on Wheels Photo by The Beat Asia

Singapore’s aging population comes with a unique set of challenges. While the elderly provide incredible richness to the heritage and history of the city-state, a few terrifying realities have come to light. For one, there is the loneliness epidemic, which elderly men are vulnerable to.

“There are a lot of people who pass away at home that no one knows about,” shared Lynn Wong, Founder of Bridging Generations and Inheritage.

On a mission to preserve her country’s unique culture, Lynn has become the perfect person to speak to about Singapore’s aging population. Aside from the male loneliness epidemic, Lynn acknowledges that an aging population could overload the country’s healthcare system. To combat such, the Singaporean government has come up with a plan: active aging hubs.

“We have little hubs around Singaporean neighborhoods where seniors can go to and take part in activities such as painting, wellness exercises, or cooking,” she shared.

Keeping active ensures that the seniors do not deteriorate mentally, physically, and socially. “If they don’t keep active, they might have to go to a dementia center, or need more care. We have these active aging hubs to ensure that the seniors stay healthy for as long as possible,” Lynn explained.

Singapore's aging population is encouraged to age actively
Singapore's aging population is encouraged to age actively | Courtesy of Lynn Wong

There is, however, one problem with these active aging hubs: there didn’t seem to be enough male participants. Activities, which are often viewed as female-centric, often deter men from engaging with them. Fortunately, Lynn’s solution has brought renewed interest in that exact demographic. In partnership with the Lien Foundation and NextOfKin Creatives, the pilot program Inheritage started a lion dance troupe for seniors known as the Silver Pride Lion Troupe.

Lion dances, which are often performed during Chinese New Year and at milestone celebrations, are deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. Aside from being entertaining, it is meant to bring about luck and drive away evil spirits, especially during joyous occasions.

Training for the Silver Pride Lion Troupe
Training for the Silver Pride Lion Troupe | Courtesy of Lynn Wong

A lion dancer and martial artist herself, Lynn knows firsthand the physical challenges that come with such exercises. For this, Lynn and her team had to consult with Master Siew Puay Lee, who is a senior himself and a 3rd generation disciple of famed martial artist Wong Fei Hong.

“When we make any kind of modification to a well-loved tradition, it’s important to ensure that the community and stakeholders agree to it,” Lynn pointed out. “Because if not, it becomes a taboo. So when we were trying to modify the sequence for the seniors, we were very careful and also consulted with Master Siew, who himself uses a personal mobility device.”

Progressive lion dance training for seniors
Progressive lion dance training for seniors | Courtesy of Lynn Wong

Of course that doesn’t mean that the founding of the dance troupe came about smoothly. “The main challenge [when we started in 2023] was ensuring that we even had a class, to begin with,” Lynn laughed. Seniors were understandably doubtful about joining a lion dance troupe, particularly a pioneering one such as this. Could they, at their age, manage to carry a heavy lion head and hop around the stage?

“We really had to think about how we could help the seniors overcome such self-limiting beliefs,” Lynn explained.

To encourage the seniors, Lynn and her team designed a progressive training program that began with an excursion. Here, they talked about the history of the lion dance; they also watched a lion dance performance done by someone of their age in a wheelchair.

“That’s how it started; that’s how they got the idea in their brain that ‘Oh, if that person can do it, then I can too,'” Lynn shared.

From there, the seniors took progressive steps towards taking center stage. Those tasked with the dance began by carrying hula hoops, which was the practice for holding the redesigned lion head. They also learned how to dance to a simple beat, which then evolved into a short but simple sequence. This eventually culminated in a public performance that empowered the dancers and wowed the audience.

Silver Pride Lion Troupe Troupe engages people of different backgrounds and ethnicities
Silver Pride Lion Troupe Troupe engages people of different backgrounds and ethnicities | Courtesy of Lynn Wong

In 2025, the Silver Pride Lion Troupe is focusing on performances they have been hired to give at private functions. They are, without a doubt, now professionals. The community has also grown, encompassing many ages and ethnic groups.

“It’s not just the [male] Chinese-Singaporeans who take part in it,” said Lynn. “We have Muslims wearing the tudung and Indian-Singaporeans taking part in the tradition.”

While Lynn has experienced firsthand how challenging being a woman in a male-dominated tradition can be, she also proudly shared that many elderly females take part in the lion dance festivities as well. “Lion dance is very celebratory and it’s linked so strongly to childhood memories,” Lynn said of the tradition’s appeal. “Whenever we see the dance or hear the music, it just brings back a lot of happy memories for everyone.”

For more information, visit the Inheritage website.

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Singapore/ Ohana/ Pets
Majes: A New Chapter in Pet Nutrition for Tropical Climates
Untitled design 2025 01 02 T103146 987 Photo by Courtesy of Majes

Say hello to Majes, the revolutionary Singaporean pet food brand from Meta Pet Tech that’s setting a new standard in pet nutrition for tropical climates. For the new year, Majes has released a new pet food line with a research-backed slogan, “Science in Every Bite," blending cutting-edge research with premium ingredients to support your pets at every stage of their lives — perfectly suited for Singapore’s iconic sweltering heat and humidity.

Tropical climates bring unique challenges for pets: persistent skin issues, fungal infections, excessive shedding, and even weakened immunity from pollution. Add digestive sensitivities caused by poor water quality, and our furry companions face an uphill battle.

Majes freeze dried
Instagram/Majes

Majes has stepped up to the plate (literally) with meticulously developed recipes that tackle these issues head-on. From premium dog and cat food to specially designed supplements, Majes offers an array of products to meet the diverse needs of your beloved pets.

At the heart of their innovation is NutriLock Tech, a state-of-the-art freeze-drying process that preserves the natural taste and nutrients in every bite. The result? Fresher, tastier meals that nourish your pet from the inside out.

Each recipe is scientifically crafted with tropical pets in mind, featuring highlights like their Purify Formula: A detoxifying blend of natural antioxidants and essential vitamins to boost immunity and support overall wellness.

Their Precise Formulation recipe is designed specifically for pets in tropical areas, enhancing nutrition, immunity, skin health, digestion, mobility, and kidney function, allowing your pet to thrive in humid, urban environments.

To find out more, visit Majes on their website, or follow them on Instagram.

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Singapore/ Ohana/ Pets
illumi Singapore Invites Your Pets to Light Up Pet-Friendly Sundays
Untitled design 2024 12 12 T111435 169 Photo by Facebook/ illumi

Looking for the perfect outing for you and your paw-tner in crime? Illumi Singapore, the world’s largest illumination event, is rolling out Pet-Friendly Sundays every week until Jan. 5, 2025, with a special emphasis on the second Sunday of each month.

Set against the iconic Bayfront Event Space at Marina Bay, illumi transforms the waterfront into a glowing wonderland. Featuring the world’s tallest tree of lights — a staggering 47 meters high (that’s five Merlions stacked!) — and nine themed zones alive with 20 million LED lights, it’s a nocturnal spectacle like no other in Singapore.

Puppies at illumi
Facebook/ illumi

The real highlight for pet lovers? The Puppies and Kitties Zone, which is home to 200 glowing sculptures of cats and dogs of various breeds. Whether you’re walking a playful pup or a curious cat (yes, felines are welcome too!), this zone is a must-visit for adorable photo ops. Just remember, all pets must be always leashed for safety.

Beyond the pet-friendly fun, you and your fur baby can explore lifelike animatronics, immersive installations, and shimmering paths under the stars. It’s a magical, festive way to celebrate the year-end, all the while creating memories with your four-legged best friend.

Pet friendly illumi
Facebook/illumi

Tickets are priced from S$14 per person for a General Non-Refundable ticket. VIP Non-Refundable tickets are priced at S$53, and POSB cardholders enjoy up to 15% off.

Tickets and additional information can be found on illumi’s official website here, or visit illumi on Facebook and Instagram.

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Singapore/ Ohana/ Family
Celebrate Pinkmas at Plaza Singapura: Festive Lights Show and Igloo
ROOM 1 Photo by Facebook/ Museum of Ice Cream

Forget a White Christmas for now, because Pinkmas is coming to Plaza Singapura, in collaboration with the Museum of Ice Cream (MOIC).

From Nov. 22 to Dec. 25, 2024, revel in a month-long extravaganza of lights, flavors, and festive fun, all decked out in shades of pink.

Festive ice cream
Instagram/Museum of Ice Cream

The celebration kicks off with Singapore’s first-ever pink-themed light show across Plaza Singapura’s 170-meter frontage along Orchard Road and chill out in an ice cream-inspired wintery Igloo. Other delightful decorations include a whimsical Pinkmas forest, a human-sized snow globe, and an Igloo Sprinkle Pool — all perfect Instagrammable backdrops for your holiday photos.

Igloo Sprinkle Pool
Website/Museum of Ice Cream

Be dazzled by Pinkmas light shows every Friday to Sunday evening until Dec. 15 and nightly from Dec. 20 to Dec. 25.

Catch them at 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:30 PM to unlock festive reward codes and exclusive treats, including free ice cream for the first 50 guests who tag Plaza Singapura and Museum of Ice Cream Singapore on social media.

workshops
Website/ Museum of Ice Cream

Sweet festivities await, such as Dessert Squishy Painting Workshops you can join every weekend until Dec. 25, 2024 at any of these slots: 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM, 7 PM, and 9 PM. For just S$15, create a personalized gift in a quick 20-minute session.

Enjoy festive ice cream flavors in your hideout, like Brown Butter Pecan, Peppermint Chocolate Chip, or for a dairy-free option: the refreshing Strawberry Sorbet. You can also share your holiday wishes and joy through an interactive QR code projection across the event grounds.

Until Dec. 27, earn mall vouchers and eCapitaVouchers with your purchases, and enter the Pinkmas Lucky Draw on the CapitaStar app for a chance to win annual MOIC passes.

To find out more, visit Plaza Singapura on their website, or check out their Instagram and Facebook.

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Singapore/ Nomads/ Stay
ICYDK: How Much is a Room in the 2025 Disney Cruise Line Singapore?
Castaway Cay 1 Photo by Website/ Disney Cruise Line

Get ready for a larger-than-life Disney adventure on the high seas! Mark your calendars because Disney's brand-new cruise experience is opening for bookings in Singapore on Dec. 10, 2024, at 8 AM!

If you’re a Castaway Club Member, Disney Vacation Club Member, or Adventure Insider, you’ll get a special sneak peek and early booking dates starting Dec. 4, 2024.

Onboard
Instagram/ Disney Cruise Line Singapore

The ship’s maiden voyage is set for Dec. 15, 2025, and pricing starts at SG$2,094 for this magical journey.

Want something a bit shorter? Three-night cruises start from SG$1,283, four-night adventures from SG$1,765, and for those looking to fully immerse themselves in Disney wonder, a five-night cruise beginning at SG$3,607 is sure to blow your socks off!

Disney Cruise Spa
Instagram/ disneycruiselines

Onboard the magic fleet you’ll be treated to luxury spa treatments, Broadway-quality shows featuring beloved Disney characters, along with nightly fireworks and classic Disney movie screenings. Kids can dive into splash zones, wade pools, and waterslides, while younger fans can revel in the Royal Court Royal Tea party with their favorite Disney characters. For a magical transformation, kids can visit the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or The Pirate’s League, where the ultimate fun escapism awaits.

And the magic doesn’t stop on board! At Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas, you can snorkel in stunning lagoons, zip down waterslides, and enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch. While the little ones are entertained, adults can indulge in exclusive yoga classes or simply relax. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to set sail on the vacation of a lifetime!

Visit Disney Cruise Line's website to find out more information, or check out their Instagram, or Facebook.

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