Things to do in Singapore this week: 5 to 11 January 

The start of the year always comes with a renewed sense of excitement, especially with a fresh lineup of things to do around Singapore. Now that the holiday festivities are behind us, we’re easing straight into the buzz of the Lunar New Year season. While many of us are busy prepping for the celebrations, January still offers plenty of ways to fill your calendar. From new pop-ups and celebrity guest appearances to fun events worth checking out, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy with your loved ones as the year kicks off.

Light to Night Festival (9 to 31 January) 

The annual Light to Night festival returns this month for its 10th edition, and it’s bigger and better than ever. This year’s theme, “The Power in Us”, celebrates the strength of community, the richness of diverse perspectives, and the power of connection as people come together to experience and co-create art.

To mark this milestone edition, you can look forward to a line-up of feature artworks and programmes that span festival favourites, new in-gallery experiences, guided tours, and more. Highlights include a series of interactive art installations under a brand-new programme titled SANTAI, inspired by the Malay word meaning “to relax”. The series invites audiences to gather as they encounter compelling artworks across five key locations around the historic Civic District — the Padang, Empress Lawn, Front Lawn at The Arts House, ACM Green, and Esplanade Park.

Light to Night Festival is located at the National Gallery Singapore and various locations across the Civic District

Dopamine Land (from 19 December)

Let’s be real, we could all use a hit of dopamine every now and then. And whether you’re planning a fun day out with your little ones or just want to do something different for yourself, Dopamine Land needs to be on your radar.

After captivating audiences in cities like London, Madrid, Dubai, São Paulo, Washington DC, Brisbane, and New Jersey, this immersive experience has officially landed in Singapore at the iconic Resorts World Sentosa.

Expect an interactive playground for the senses, complete with optical illusions, mesmerising soundscapes, and over nine themed rooms designed to send your senses into overdrive. Think: bold colours, surreal visuals, and spaces that feel straight out of a dream. Highlights include Colourtopia, a neon wonderland that feels like stepping inside a kaleidoscope, and the Cave of Tactility, a one-of-a-kind room filled with soft, textural walls that you’ll want to touch everything in.

The entire experience is an otherworldly escape from reality, and, yes, it’s also a goldmine for your next Instagram post.

Dopamine Land is located at Level 2, WEAVE at Resorts World Sentosa, 26 Sentosa Gateway, #02-204-205 

Singapore Motor Show (8 to 11 January) 

On the hunt for a new four-wheel drive, or simply looking to admire some stunning new car launches? Check out the Singapore Motor Show, which returns from 8 to 11 January at Suntec Convention Centre.

Now in its 19th edition, the event lets attendees get a first look at some of the coolest new launches in the market, discover the latest car brands, and explore a huge variety of petrol, hybrid, and EV models — all under one roof.

The catch? One lucky visitor also stands a chance to win the Dongfeng Box, Singapore’s *#1 best-selling electric hatchback.

Singapore Motor Show is located at Suntec Singapore, Levels 6, 4, 3 and 1 Atrium (Convention Centre)

K-Pop Demon Hunters Official Pop-Up (22 December to 11 January) 

By now, you’re probably familiar with tracks like “Golden” or “Soda Pop” — songs that have been playing everywhere from malls to clubs, thanks to the viral hit movie K-Pop Demon Hunters, which took the world by storm.

If you’re a fan of the film, you’ll be glad to know that there’s a pop-up store happening at *SCAPE from now till 11 January, where you can shop official merchandise, snap photos at themed photobooths with characters from HUNTR/X and Saja Boys, and explore immersive sets that make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into the movie.

Entry to the pop-up is complimentary, though it’s recommended to reserve a slot in advance to avoid the queues.

K-Pop Demon Hunters Official Pop-up is located at *SCAPE, #03-07, 2 Orchard Link

Maker’s Market: The Weekday Edit (from 5 January) 

You don’t have to wait till the weekend to shop. At Maker’s Market, located at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, you can browse through collections of handmade items and unique trinkets to surprise your loved ones — or even pick up a little something for yourself. While most of these events usually take place over the weekend, Maker’s Market is hosting its first weekday edition, so you can swing by during your lunch break or after work if you’re in the area. 

Maker’s Market: The Weekday Edit is located at Dhoby Ghaut MRT