17 New Things To Do In April 2022: Labyrinth Garden, Sumikko Gurashi Movie, New Hotel Staycay & More
It’s no joke - April is here, and there have been plenty of new changes as of late. For one, we get to walk around with our faces uncovered outdoors, and the borders to our neighbour Malaysia are now open! But if you’re still not ready to go on a weekend quickie across the Causeway, there’s still plenty to keep yourself occupied with within our own island, starting with these 17 new things to do in April 2022 in Singapore.
This month’s edition includes unique forms of art jamming, the world’s largest indoor inflatable bouncy playground, spellbinding photo spots and more!
Read on for things to do in April 2022 in Singapore!
#1: Admire an interactive colour-changing crystal lattice installation in town
Photo from Body, Heart & Soul
Marina Square is now home to a free-entry crystal lattice installation comprising four illuminated cubes and mirrored surfaces, which combine to form a trippy interactive playscape for fun with movement and optical illusions. The structures change colour in response to motion, so walk or dance along to see how everything transforms!
Photo from Body, Heart & Soul
This pop-up is part of Body, Heart & Soul - a series of roving events across the Marina Central district. While you’re there, you’re sure to want to whip out your camera with the lattice knots as a futuristic-looking backdrop.
Photo from Body, Heart & Soul
#2: Check out jazzed up versions of LV’s trunks at their “200 Trunks, 200 Visionaries” exhibition
Photo from Louis Vuitton
In celebration of Louis Vuitton’s 200th birthday this year, the fashion house has collaborated with 200 creatives across various genres to come up with 200 Trunks, 200 Visionaries - a global-scale exhibition involving reimagined versions of their iconic trunk. And lucky us, for Singapore happens to be the show’s first stop straight from France.
Photo from Louis Vuitton
These reinvented trunks feature designs by Marc Jacobs, DJ Benji B, Lego, and even Korean idol group, BTS. Yes, you read that right - a Louis Vuitton x BTS collab.
Photo from Louis Vuitton
Entry is free but you’ll have to book a slot via Louis Vuitton’s website.
Date: 4 - 27 April 2022
Location: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza
Price: FREE
Website
#3: Get some fresh air at the 2 new Therapeutic Gardens in the East
Photo from National Parks Board
Lucky Easties now have two new nature hangout spots, as both Bedok Reservoir Park and Pasir Ris Park have gotten their own Therapeutic Gardens as fresh additions. The former is built over a former sand quarry, with waterfront views of the reservoir and an interactive rock garden as some of its highlights.
Photo from National Parks Board
The latter has a labyrinth lawn, planting zones, and rest spots including a scenic pavilion. This location is also one that overlooks waters!
Photo from National Parks Board
It’s heartwarming to know that these Therapeutic Gardens were specially designed with the elderly and disabled in mind, so they’re made more accessible such that everyone can enjoy them.
Photo from National Parks Board
Find out more about these Therapeutic Gardens here.
#4: Chill out at M Social with free Dollop Automat selfie booth photos & breakfast
Photo from M Social
Boutique hotel M Social has teamed up with Korean-style self studio Dollop Automat for a special staycation package that all selfie enthusiasts will love. On top of a good night’s sleep in one of their semi-industrial urban-style rooms, you’ll be treated to a free 15-minute self-photography session for 2, which comes with four 4R photo prints and a Dynamic SWIRL360 Video Experience.
That's not all, for there will be free daily breakfast for you and your companion.
Photo from M Social
Rooms-wise, we recommend picking one of their three types of lofts, as they aren’t significantly pricier than their most basic Alcove Cosy Room. Besides, the lofts are what they’re best loved for, especially since not all hotels in Singapore offer such an experience. Go for the Alcove Terrace Room if you’d like a private mini garden right next to your bed!
Photo from Dollop Automat
Once you’re done going trigger happy, chill out on a deck chair by the rooftop pool or work out at the gym on the same floor.
Photo from M Social
We played around with the dates on their website and it seems that prices start from $200/night, which works out to just $100 per person. Valid for bookings made by 31 December 2022, for stays till the same date.
#5: Customise your own kicks with a sneaker art jamming session at Artistra Studio
Photo from Artistra Studio
Bringing a twist to the standard art jamming session is Artistra Studio, Singapore’s first sneakers art jamming studio. Here, a pair of sneakers will be your canvas, and you’ll be working with stencils and premium leather paint to customise your very own one-of-a-kind set of kicks.
Photo from Artistra Studio
They do have an extensive range of stencils to choose from, suitable for both lads and ladies, but if you have something else in mind, send them your preferred design with advance notice and they’ll try to print out a suitable stencil for you, provided that it’s not overly complicated.
Photo from Artistra Studio
Embellishments like shoelace charms can be added on for a fee, but the sneakers themselves - which are self-manufactures by Artistra - are already included in the cost of your session. If you already have an existing pair of sneakers that you’d like to decorate, you can also opt for the Bring Your Own Sneakers Package at a slightly lower rate.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
#6: Step into a world of playfulness at the POP MART Bunny exhibition
Photo from POP MART
Following the previous Molly exhibition is now a POP MART Bunny one, this time at Punggol. Centred around the Bunny Playfulness collection, a series of colourful figurines of the whimsical character in various carefree scenarios, this free-entry pop-up includes photo spots that look like a floral garden, a 2D house, and a pond with lily pads.
Photo from POP MART
Amidst each mini zone are a life-sized statues of popular Bunny Playfulness figurines, as well as character standees. Other Bunny series figurines will also be on display in special showcases.
Photo from POP MART
While you’re there, take advantage of the various POP MART discounts to expand your collection.
Date: Until 24 April 2022
Location: Waterway Point
Price: FREE
Website
#7: Catch the newest Sumikko Gurashi movie in cinemas
Photo from Golden Village
Remember the Sumikko Gurashi movie that first aired in 2022? The gang is back once again for a second film, titled Sumikko Gurashi: The Little Wizard In The Blue Moonlight. So the story goes like this: Sumikko Gurashi go camping one day, and look up to see a big blue moon - something that happens only once in 5 years. According to a legend, this is when wizards come to town and grant wishes.
Photo from Golden Village
True enough, 5 sibling wizards come to visit, and put a spell on various spots in town to turn them into party venues. Soon after, they leave…but Tapioca is somehow among them. The rest of the Sumikko Gurashi then go on a mission to get their friend back - will they succeed?
Photo from Golden Village
It doesn’t matter if you didn’t manage to watch the first movie, because this second edition is a whole new story on its own.
The movie first started showing in Golden Village cinemas on 10th March, so it’s likely that it’s about to end its run soon. Catch it while you still have the chance!
Check out the latest movie dates and timings via Golden Village’s website here.
#8: Browse eye-pleasing Japanese furniture at the first Nitori Retail store in Singapore
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
It looks like MUJI has got a strong competitor for Japanese furniture in Singapore. Hailing from the Land of the Rising Sun itself, the very first Nitori Retail store has set up shop within COURTS Nojima along Orchard road, and you can expect the very best of minimalist wooden furniture, eye-pleasing muted colours, and ingenious inventions that only the Japanese would think of.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
One example? The N-Cool range of bedding, which wicks away body heat and creates a cooling sensation so that you’ll have a comfortable night’s sleep even without air-con. Part of the range is the Mochi Mochi Pillow ($24.90) that’s extra soft and fluffy.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Other highlights include their build-a-sofa service where you can get a fully customised sofa, easily-assembled N-Click furniture that locks together without fuss, and fast-drying bath maths which miraculously don’t feel wet to the touch when you step on them right out of the shower.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
#9: Marvel at designer Marvel & DC figurines at the 19,000 sqft XM Store & Cafe flagship
Photo from XM Studios
Marvel and DC fans, and designer toy fanatics - this one’s for you. Recently opened near Lavender MRT station is XM Studios’ very first flagship store in Singapore, sprawling over 19,000 square feet. For the uninitiated, XM Studios is a homegrown collective that handcrafts and hand-paints statues and figurines of popular characters, usually from superhero franchises.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
In this sleek, swaggy space are over 300 collectible designer toys on display, which you’ll get the privilege of marvelling at (pun unintended) up close. These include favourites like Batman, Iron Man, the Transformers, Harley Quinn, and plenty more.
Photo from XM Studios
Once you’re done, head on over to their in-house 99 Gelato Coffee Bar for specialty brews and artisanal gelato. In contrast to the brooding decor of the figurine studio, this cafe has a bright and airy interior that provides a breath of fresh air.
#10: Indulge in magical themed food with the My Little Pony pop-up cafe
Photo from Kumoya Singapore
Bronies, it’s your time to shine - there’s a new My Little Pony cafe in town. With an apt Magical Cuteness theme, this limited-time pop-up is decked out head to toe in colourful decor referencing the cartoon, with a menu of expertly plated food, drinks, and desserts to match.
Photo from Kumoya Singapore
Photo from Kumoya Singapore
There are 5 mains, 6 snacks, 3 desserts, and 11 drinks to choose from, including the Magic Potion Karaage Chicken With Beetroot Cream Rice ($26.90), with the sauce in a pretty pink shade. This is further jazzed up with bits of cheese and carrots shaped like hearts and stars.
Photo from Kumoya Singapore
For dessert, we’d recommend the Just Apple Applejack Housemade Apple Tart ($22.90), topped with a mini mousse shaped like an apple. The tart crust was buttery and not at all hard, and everything paired perfectly with the scoop of ice cream and scattering of berries.
#11: Get your fill of the best Hari Raya nosh with the 2022 comeback of Ramadan bazaars
Photo from Geylang Serai
After a 2 year hiatus, the annual Ramadan bazaars are making a grand comeback. Among confirmed locations include Geylang Serai - a hot favourite for its size and variety each year - as well as LalooLalang at heritage district Kampong Gelam.
Aside from stalls selling traditional Raya street snacks, modernised reinventions, and Hari Raya baju, there will also be a light-up at each location to further add to the festive mood. We heard that there’ll even be a projection mapping light show at Kampong Gelam! Will there be live music too? Stay tuned to find out!
These are all we know of so far, but fingers crossed there will be others popping up soon! Let us know if there are any coming to your neighbourhood!
Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar
Date: 2 April to 2 May 2022
Time: 1pm - 11pm daily
Laloolalang at Kampong Gelam
Date: 1 April to 1 May 2022
Time: 3pm - 11pm daily
#12: Unleash your inner fashion queen at Dior’s Sping-Summer 2022 pop-up
Photo from Marina Bay Sands
Louis Vuitton isn’t the only luxury fashion brand that’s having an event up at MBS. Dior is also getting a share of the pie with their Sping-Summer 2022 pop-up, featuring vibrant items from their women’s collection that are inspired by “pop spirit”.
Photo from Marina Bay Sands
Photo from Marina Bay Sands
Think hot pink, lime green, and bright orange, as well as graffiti-style prints bringing a splash of eclecticism to their classic bag silhouettes. But don’t worry if you’re not too adventurous with your fashion picks, as they do have simpler designs in sweet pastels and elegant black.
Photo from Marina Bay Sands
Date: Until 17 April 2022
Location: Marina Bay Sands
Price: FREE
#13: Frolic along the giant Chupa Chups lollipop displays at Changi Airport
Photo from Changi Airport
Whether you have immediate plans to travel or otherwise, it’s still worth heading down to Changi Airport this month for they’re bringing a little sweetness to our lives with a series of candylicious Chupa Chups displays!
Photo from Changi Airport
Among these include the largest Chupa Chups lollipop in Singapore, a candy ferris wheel, and a 3D optical illusion. Don’t miss the lollipop garden, and redeem discounted workshop passes and free merchandise with every $50 spent in a single receipt.
Photo from Changi Airport
These Chupa Chups displays will be up and running till 3 May 2022.
#14: Have a jumping good time at world’s largest indoor bouncy castle playground
Photo from Bouncy Paradise
While everyone probably knows about floating bouncy waterpark HydroDash by now, there’s another hidden gem in Singapore full of inflatable fun: Bouncy Paradise. The name says it all - it’s a wonderland of bouncy structures for you to frolic on, and according to them, they’re the largest indoor bouncy castle playground in the WORLD!
Photo from Bouncy Paradise
While primarily designed with kids in mind, Bouncy Paradise is meant for all ages, and there’s a separate less-intense section for toddlers. Zoom down a mega unicorn rainbow slide standing at over 6 feet all, and from there, dive into the interactive ball pit with quirky floats and augmented projection gaming. There’s even a giant human gachapon toy machine which you can bounce around inside.
Photo from Bouncy Paradise
There’s also a trampoline zone with basketball hoops and ball pits, so this is really more than just a bouncy castle playland. You’ll be truly getting your money’s worth with their multi-faceted zones, and entry just costs $19 for 2 hours!
#15: Book a luxurious staycation at the new voco Orchard Singapore with rooftop pool
Photo from voco Orchard Singapore
There’s a new kid on the block along our shopping belt and its voco Orchard Singapore. Taking over the former Hilton building, this new luxury hotel combines an upscale experience with playful elements, as well as eco-friendly touches like sustainable amenities and a bottle recycling station.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Make sure you set aside some time to check out the rooftop lap pool with adjoining jacuzzi pool. Being located on the 24th floor, this is where you can catch some of the best city views, while enjoying some fresh air on the sheltered deck with sofa seats.
Photo from voco Orchard Singapore
Dining options are aplenty here, including steak restaurant Opus Bar & Grill and rooftop Italian eatery il Cielo. Should you opt for it, you’ll be feasting on a buffet breakfast at Opus the next morning, else, you can have in-room brekkie in full private comfort.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Those who book the Club Room get to enjoy free-flow light bites and beverages (including champagne!) at the Club Lounge for that full VIP experience.
#16: Create an abstract masterpiece with balloon pop art jamming
Photo from Art Pop Studio
Need to let off some steam? Vent your frustrations and let loose by getting messy with t’s time to get messy and throw some paint bombs arund at Art Pop Studio - while creating a masterpiece in the process.
Photo from Art Pop Studio
At this Balloon Splatter Art Workshop, you’ll first be filling balloons with your choice of paint colours, before attaching them to a canvas and throwing darts at them to pop them. The paint will then burst onto the canvas in splats and drips, resulting in an abstract work of art being created.
Photo from Art Pop Studio
The beauty of this activity is that you don’t have to care about things like precision, and can just go wild and have fun. The end product will be something unpredictable, but that just makes the experience a whole lot more exciting.
Photo from Art Pop Studio
P.S.: Make your booking via Klook instead of on their website to get a small discount!
#17: Sip a cuppa at Starbucks’ new teal mermaid-themed outlet in town
Photo from Starbucks Singapore
We’ve since bid goodbye to the original Starbucks outlet right outside Raffles City Shopping Centre, but don’t despair, for the the coffee chain has opened a brand new branch within the same shopping mall itself, this time fully-air conditioned on Level 2 instead of its previous semi-open concept that put us at the mercy of the hot afternoon sun.
Photo from Starbucks Singapore
Photo from Starbucks Singapore
The decor has also been given a nice refresh, with calming shades of teal and sea green instead of the previous nondescript brown. Check out the mermaid-themed decor too, including a siren mural, mermaid scale motifs, and sea green wall tiles with an ethereal sheen!
Photo from Starbucks Singapore
Share this with a friend who needs outing ideas!
Text by: GirlStyle SG
