What’s on Singapore: National Day Celebrations 2023
Singapore/The List/What's On

What’s on Singapore: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, & Drink on Aug. 3-9, 2023

Whats On Header Template August 3 9 SG

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in Singapore! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Singapore’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Singapore to see what’s best in store for the week ahead.

1. Support Local! at Downtown East

Celebrate Singapore’s 58th birthday and all things local at Downtown East this month of August! Meet local characters Ang Ku Kueh Girl, Otah & Friends, and Xiao Pang Ge Ge as they gather every weekend at E!Avenue L2 to perform a fun-filled singalong. You can also redeem limited-edition socks for a minimum purchase of S$50 (NTUC member) or S$70 (Link member). Visit their website for more details.

When: Entire month of August

Where: Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close

How much: Free, Price varies depending on the activity


2. Singapore Heritage Afternoon Tea Set For 2

Enjoy a collection of sweet and savoury favourites served with artisan tea by Monogram at The Marmalade Pantry. There will be Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis, Plain & Raisin Buttermilk Scone, Chicken Cranberry Sandwich, and more on the menu that you can share with your partner or loved one. If you don’t feel like going out, you can recreate the iconic English afternoon tea experience at home through delivery and takeaway. Visit their website for the specific schedules for each branch.

When: Aug. 1-Oct. 31

Where: Multiple locations

How much: S$78 for two


3. Glenfiddich Films At The Fort

The ninth edition of Glenfiddich Films At The Fort is starting this week to give you the ultimate open-air cinema experience once again. Watch Cannes Film Festival Grand Jury Prize Winner “Close,” Cannes Palme d’Or Winner “Triangle of Sadness,” and other amazing films as you savour gourmet food and drinks in the historic natural amphitheatre at Fort Canning Green. Check the full programme and buy your tickets here. Each ticket includes a Glenfiddich cocktail (worth S$14) or two non-alcoholic drinks.

When: Aug. 3-20

Where: Fort Canning Green (within Fort Canning Park), Canning Rise

How much: S$42.80, plus S$6 for backrest rental (optional)


4. The 6th Asia Dance Arts Festival

The 6th Asia Dance Arts Festival
Photo by Website/SISTIC

Celebrate the diversity of the region’s dance culture at the sixth edition of the Asia Dance Arts Festival this week. From showcasing traditional to contemporary dances, this event is the ideal platform for cultural exchange and supporting emerging talents. There will also be masterclasses and workshops worth checking out! Get your tickets via SISTIC.

When: Aug. 3-6

Where: Anglo-Chinese Junior College (ACJC) Faith Centre for Performing Arts, 25 Dover CL E / The Theatre at Mediacorp, One-North Ave., The Shugart (Awarding)

How much: S$22 (Standard), S$15 (Student), S$8 (Participant)


5. ‘Psychobitch’

Watch how the dark with and searing insight of Amanda Chong come to life with “Psychobitch.” Starring Sindhura Kalidas, with direction from Pam Oei, the upcoming stage is a thought-provoking one-woman show that explores power dynamics and toxic relationships while challenging the concessions people make when in search for love. Get your tickets via SISTIC.

When: Aug. 3-19

Where: The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ Wild Rice Funan, Funan, 107 North Bridge Road

How much: Starts at S$20 (Cat 4 – High Seat)


6. Welcome To My World 2023: CHACHAMBO! Taking Flight

“A tribute to the past. A moving story of forgiveness.” Go on a journey with a visually impaired girl as she tries to revive an entertainment club to its former glory. Featuring the pioneer cohort of ART:DIS’s BEYOND DIS:PLAY theatre training programme, this inclusive theatre piece by artists with disabilities is a must-watch this weekend. Get your tickets via BookMyShow. You can also pay it forward to give other people in the community a chance to watch the show.

When: Aug. 4-6

Where: Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Pl

How much: S$21


7. SGIFF Fundraiser 2023: A Special Preview Screening of ‘Asteroid City’

Support Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) and their cause this Saturday as they host a special preview screening of American comedy-drama film “Asteroid City” by Wes Anderson. To bring more life to the event, there will be carnival snacks, festive drinks, and a themed photo booth that everyone can enjoy. Guests who come in their best Wes Anderson-inspired look and participate in the pop quiz will get a chance to win official limited-edition merchandise worth S$400. Donate here to claim your passes.

When: 6 PM (reception), Aug. 5

Where: Golden Village VivoCity (Hall 4), 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-30 VivoCity

How much: S$35 (front row seats)


8. Notes From Nature: A Plant-based Pop-up

Looking to go green? Head over to Journey East this weekend to “re-discover the lush splendor of Nature” through a free plant-based shopping fair featuring Singapore's finest boutique businesses. Buy plants from urban gardening brand Little Botany and 3 Keys or munch on seasonal Finnish strawberry from Nordic Nature. If you want something to drink, you can get cocktails and whisky on the rocks from Distilled or artisanal Kombucha tea from Aboocha. Get your tickets via Eventbrite and check the list of exhibitors here.

When: 10 AM-6 PM, Aug. 5-6

Where: Journey East, 315 Outram Road #03-02 Tan Boon Liat Building Singapore

How much: Free


9. Sentosa Festive Market by Sunday Social

Sentosa Festive Market by Sunday Social
Photo by Website/Sentosa

Prepare your wallets for an exciting weekend street market as Sunday Social brings 23 emerging local brands, snacks inspired by local flavours, and quirky objects with a Singapore twist. There will also be a National Day cooking workshop, face painting, and tarot reading sessions for visitors. And the most important of all: Don’t forget to bring your fur babies! There will treats and activities curated for them.

When: Aug. 5-6

Where: Palawan Green, Siloso Beach Walk

How much: Free


10. NPD 2023: Onward as One

Celebrate Singapore’s 58th birthday with a blast! If you live in the heartlands, there will be community activities and a fireworks display to enjoy with the whole family. But if you want something more amazing, head over to The Padang and prepare to catch the State Flag Flypast, Presidential Gun Salute, Enhanced Aerial Display, and the Total Defence Parade shows live. Check their official website for more information.

When: Aug. 5-6 (NDP in the Heartlands), Aug. 9 (NDP at The Padang)

Where: Multiple locations / The Padang, Connaught Drive

How much: Free


11. ONE Fight Night 13: Allazov vs. Grigorian

Broadcasting live on Prime Video, the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium will once again become a battleground for Muay Thai, kickboxing, grappling, and MMA. Catch newly crowned ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion, Chingiz Allazov, as he prepares for his first title defence against Armenian-Belgian kickboxer Marat Grigorian. For the co-main event, ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Champion Mikey Musumeci will defend his title for the third time against professional mixed martial artist Jarred Brooks who also hails from the United States. Don't miss out!

When: 8 AM, Aug. 5

Where: Watch online

How much: Subscribe to Prime Video


Promote your upcoming event now! Click here to submit your event and have it considered for inclusion in our upcoming coverage and newsletters.

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

This Week's Events In Singapore View more