20 New Things To Do In March 2023 - Cat Festival, Sakura Displays, Hiking Trails, Pop-Up Markets & More
We’re back with another round-up of activities and events in our sunny island and although there aren’t any public holidays this month, there’s still plenty of fun to look forward to, so keep your spirits up! Our list of 20 new things to do this March 2023 in Singapore includes free quirky art exhibition, Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, and the first-ever “tiny home” staycations in Lazarus Island.
#1: Shop from local crafters & designers at Makers’ Market
Photo from Makers' Market
The Makers’ Market is back once again, bringing you a treasure trove of handcrafted and self-designed creations by local artists as well as those from around the region. This March, there will be two separate pop-ups in succession, one at Clarke Quay and the other at Dhoby Ghaut.
Photo from @mysa.studiossg via Instagram
Browse a unique selection of little trinkets like stickers, keychains, and gift-able knick-knacks, as well as fashion and wellness picks from new and familiar labels. One of the newcomers to keep an eye out for is mysa, a local artist who does intricate handmade keycaps in food-inspired such as sushi and iced gem biscuits.
Photo from Makers' Market
Makers’ Market Clarke Quay
Date: 10 to 12 March 2023
Time: 11am - 9pm
Location: Clarke Quay Central, Level 1 Atrium
Makers’ Market SOTA
Date: 17 to 19 March 2023
Time: 12pm - 8pm
Location: School of the Arts (SOTA) covered walkway
#2: Check out quirky doodles by a Korean artist and watch him draw live
Photo from Yoyojin
You may or may not have heard of Korean artist Yoyojin, but no matter. His Borderless solo exhibition will be coming to Singapore’s Nonage Gallery this month, and it’s something you certainly don’t wanna miss if you’re a fan of all things cute and quirky.
Photo from Yoyojin
Photo from Yoyojin
Based on the few sneaks we’ve seen, visitors can expect paintings and sculptures in the artist’s signature kooky style, all in a burst of fun, vibrant colour that’ll brighten up the entire room. You’ll also get to witness the master at work - Yoyojin himself will be bringing a large mural to life right from scratch on 4 March, from 3pm to 6pm.
Photo from Yoyojin
Borderless by Yoyo Jin
Date: 4 March to 20 April 2023
Time: 12pm - 6pm daily
Location: Nonage Gallery at Jalan Kilang
Price: FREE
Website
#3: Scale over 20 routes at Climb@T3, Changi Airport’s new rock climbing facility
Photo from Changi Airport
It’s time to scale new heights with the opening of Climb@T3, a new rock climbing facility at Changi Airport managed by climbing gym The Rock School. Opening on 4 March 2023, this new attraction will have a 8-metre high wall spanning across basements 2 and 3, with 10 lanes and over 20 routes to explore. According to Changi Airport, this will eventually be increased to around 30 paths, with differing levels of challenge from beginner to intermediate.
Photo from Changi Airport
The auto-belaying system makes things much more accessible for everyone, as you won’t need to look for a certified belayer friend in order to enjoy a good climb here. There’s also a 12-metre long bouldering wall where you can challenge yourself to attempt a route of your choice without falling.
Photo from Changi Airport
Complimentary equipment, climbing shoes, sand harnesses will be provided - all you need to bring is yourself and a pair of socks.
Climb@T3
Address: #B3-01/02 Changi Airport Terminal 3, Singapore,819663
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 12pm - 9.30pm | Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 9.30pm
Telephone: 8923 3831
Website
#4: Feast to your heart’s content at the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar 2023
Photo from Wisma Geylang Serai
Back for its longest-ever run in history and 10 times bigger than last year’s, the annual Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar will be making a comeback with a whopping 700 stalls full of food and retail options. Opening on March 17 to coincide with the Hari Raya light-up in the area, this mega night market is one to hit up for both traditional Malay snacks as well as more unique, contemporary creations.
Photo from Wisma Geylang Serai
Because it’s just that massive, the bazaar will be split into 2 portions. Souq City is chock full of food and shopping, and each food stall will serve at least one item in a sample-sized portion for just $4 - great for those who’d like to try a little bit of everything without bursting at the seams. This zone also allows you to give back to society by donating non-perishable halal food and clothing at the community shelves for those in need.
There’s also the Street Bazaar, stretching all the way from Geylang Serai Market to Tanjong Katong Complex. This portion will come with three themes and include interactive art installations. More details will be announced closer to the opening date.
Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar 2023
Date: Until April 22 2023
Time: 10am - 11.59pm (Extended till 6am on April 22)
Location: Geylang Serai
#5: Wine and dine 33 levels up high at Las Palmas, a rooftop poolside bar
Photo from Las Palmas Rooftop Bar
Whisk yourself off to paradise with Las Palmas, a new rooftop bar whose namesake is the capital of one of Spain’s Canary Islands. And true to its monicker, it’s got its vacation vibes down pat with fresh pink-hued furniture, a tropical theme, and stunning views from the 33rd floor. Topping that off is a pool, where you can chill out in a cabana sipping cocktails with your gal pals.
Photo from Las Palmas Rooftop Bar
Las Palmas serves food too, from bar bites to tacos and solid burgers and rib stacks, so those who don’t drink can still put this on their lists as the next go-to spot for a chill hangout.
Photo from Las Palmas Rooftop Bar
#6: Get anime-style caricature portraits in just 5mins with Jelly Caricature
Photo from Jelly Caricature
Ever wondered what you’d look like as a manga character? Jelly Caricature is here to answer that with their cute, hand-drawn caricature portraits. Instead of drawings that depict one’s features in an exaggerated (and sometime unglam) manner, this local art collective does things with a Japanese-inspired slant, making you look good on paper while bringing out your uniqueness in a realistic manner.
Photo from Jelly Caricature
Couple and pet portraits are possible too! For March, you can catch them at various pop-ups at The Hammock Market, Orchard Gateway, Trick Eye Museum, and more. Check out their Instagram page for more info on dates and timings!
#7: Catch all the Pokégenic photo spots in Singapore
Photo from Pokégenic
Ash Ketchum has finally retired after fulfilling his dream of becoming a Pokémon Master, but that doesn’t mean our relationship with the anime franchise has to come to an end. Other than being scattered all across Okinawa in Japan, Pokégenic photo spots have come to Singapore in a smaller dose, and are waiting to be discovered by fans.
Photo from Pokégenic
Photo from Pokégenic
These include wall art with hidden Pikachus and larger-than-life sculptures of some of your favourite first-gen Pokémon characters like Bulbasaur and Squirtle. Put on your best walking shoes and keep your eyes peeled to catch ‘em all!
Photo from Pokégenic
Pokégenic in Singapore
Date: Until Mid-May 2023
Time: 24/7
Location: Gardens by the Bay (non-ticketed areas)
Price: FREE
Website
#8: Unleash your inner crazy cat lady at Singapore Cat Festival 2023
Photo from Singapore Cat Festival
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a cat owner, or just someone who identifies as a crazy cat lady - the Singapore Cat Festival 2023 welcomes all who have a love for felines. Here’s where you can learn more about these fluffy creatures that are full of personality, and perhaps even get a furkid of your own with the adoption drive held on-site by the Cat Welfare Society and SPCA.
There will also be talks on cat care, as well as a Breed Showcase by the Feline Fanciers Society of Singapore with the prettiest pedigree cats.
Photo from @unfinishedtails.art via Instagram
Browse the booths for treats and accessories for your kitty, or pick up some cute cat-themed merchandise for yourself from the stalls set up by local crafters!
Photo from Singapore Cat Festival
Admission is free and you can bring your cat along - be it in a pet pram, carrier bag, or held in your arms - but owners are to be fully responsible for their pets and take the necessary precautions to prevent them from escaping.
Singapore Cat Festival 2023
Date: 25 & 26 March 2023
Time: 11am - 9pm
Location: Great World, Level 1 Atrium & Office Lobby
Price: FREE
Website
#9: Hike along the newly-opened Rail Corridor (North)
Photo from Urban Redevelopment Authority
Yet another section of the 24km Rail Corridor has opened to the public, creating even more green spaces for you to explore along the expansive stretch. The Rail Corridor’s North portion starts from Hillview MRT station to Kranji MRT station, and with it comes 12 new access points so you can drop in at any portion of the trail that’s most convenient for you.
Photo from NParks
Other new additions with the Rail Corridor (North) include a scenic deck overlooking Dairy Farm Nature Park and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a new bridge linking across Hillview Road, 6km worth of enhanced trails, recreational fields and more.
Photo from Urban Redevelopment Authority
Find out more about the Rail Corridor (North) here so you can plan your hiking route.
#10: Experience a multisensory installation combined with performance art
Photo from Singapore Art Museum
Dance in the Destruction Dance by Singaporean artist Joo Choon Lin is more than just a futuristic-looking installation; It’s also a performance space playing host to a two-part theatrical performance that will activate the artwork within.
Photo from Singapore Art Museum
According to the artist, "Our experience of the world is an interpretation of our senses and a projection of our mind.” - that is, our different senses open us up to various experiences and perspectives that complete us and make us whole. In line with that, you can look forward to a multifaceted combination of sculptures, videos, and live performance engaging all your senses at once.
Photo from Singapore Art Museum
As the story unfolds, you’ll also get to explore how everyday materials and items continuously “shapeshift” in our modern world, together with ever-evolving technologies.
Photo from Singapore Art Museum
Dance in the Destruction Dance
Date: Until 16 April 2023
Time: 10am - 7pm daily
Location: Gallery 2, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark
Price: FREE
Website
#11: Admire real cherry blossoms at Gardens by the Bay
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
Sakura season is abloom in Singapore once again - at Gardens by the Bay's Flower Dome, at least. As usual, this highly-anticipated annual floral display will feature real cherry blossoms flown in from abroad and arranged in a beautiful Japanese-themed setup so it looks just like the real thing - no need to feel any FOMO if you’re not travelling during this period!
This year's version is said to mimic a scenic train journey across Japan's most gorgeous landscapes, sure to be a sight for sore eyes. You can also enjoy cultural experiences like demonstrations, performances, and a sakura pin-making workshop.
Sakura at Gardens by the Bay
Date: 11 March to 9 April 2023
Time: 9am - 9pm
Location: Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay
Price: $12 for Singaporean Adults
Website
#12: Have a Tiny Away Escape amidst nature at Lazarus Island
Photo from Big Tiny
You can finally have a staycation at Lazarus Island - and we’re not talking about roughing it out in a camping tent. For the first time ever, there will be tiny houses built on this tranquil island for short stays, giving guests that back-to-nature experience but with all the creature comforts.
Photo from Big Tiny
Each container-like tiny house will have its own kitchenette, living area with sofa and TV, a proper double bed and air-con for that elevated glamping experience. These eco-friendly hideouts are mainly powered by solar energy, have a high-tech food waste recycling system, and are made using sustainable materials like recycled plastic and wood fibres. Guests will also be given complimentary biodegradable shampoo and body wash.
Photo from Big Tiny
Being stationed at Lazarus means you’ll have easy access to other surrounding islands such as St John’s, Seringat, and Kias. Make sure you make time to visit the pristine horseshoe-shaped beach which has some of the whitest, cleanest sands in Singapore! From there, you can also catch a ferry for an island-hopping adventure to Kusu Island and Sister’s Island.
Photo from Big Tiny
More information regarding booking and prices will be announced soon.
#13: Nibble on art-inspired treats with Van Gogh-themed afternoon tea
Photo from Fairmont Singapore
Life imitates art with the new Season of Impressionists afternoon tea experience by Fairmont Singapore, with sweet and savoury treats inspired by Van Gogh and his famous Sunflowers series. Served in a triple-tiered jewellery box, these include desserts shaped like a potted sunflower and edible mini “painting”, along with other sunflower-infused delectables. Prices are reasonable too, at just $58 per person!
#14: Pore over comics at the Grab-n-Go Manga Library
Photo from National Library Board
Fans of comics and graphic novels would want to make a beeline to the Grab-n-Go Manga Library at City Square Mall, where shelves of over 5,000 such paperbacks as well as digital versions are at your perusal for free browsing or borrowing.
Photo from National Library Board
There will also be a special showcase of comics by local authors, along with a Mr Kiasu robot that will give you book recommendations and teach you how to check out the books using the Grab-n-Go system.
Photo from National Library Board
Grab-n-Go Manga Library
Date: Until end August 2023
Location: City Square Mall, Level 4
Price: FREE
#15: Go wild with It’s The Ship 2023
Photo from It's The Ship
Party animals, it’s your time to shine - It’s The Ship will be sailing off from Singapore this March 2023 for a wild 3D2N round-trip of non-stop partying. This is Asia’s largest EDM festival out at sea, and this year’s edition - the first after a 3-year hiatus - is sure to be bigger and better than before. Slip into your best bikini and rave out on deck with past shipmates, along with new entrants like Disco Diaries, Rave Cave, and Nauti-neon.
Photo from It's The Ship
But it’s not just about going hard - there are also a series of wellness activities for when you need to wind down from all the crazy action. Work off those alcohol calories with HIIT sessions and yoga, or recuperate with spa sessions and other wholesome activities like movies and mini golf. With 18 decks full of entertainment and over 35 F&B outlets, the fun will never run dry.
#16: Unwind with a massage deal at Singapore’s only safari-themed spa
Photo from minzyiii via Foursquare
In need of a quick getaway? Feel like you're at an exotic resort with Maesgo the Safari Spa, Singapore's first and only safari-themed massage and facial parlour, and feel your stress fade as you get pampered like a queen in one of their private tents.
Photo from Klook
We'll let you in on a little secret: Their signature body massage and facial, which typically cost $88 and $108 respectively, are now going at a highly discounted rate of just $58 each with an exclusive deal. Find out how to get the deal here.
Photo from inez. t via Foursquare
#17: Watch classic artwork come alive at Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
The aforementioned Van Gogh afternoon tea isn’t the only new activity here that’s inspired by the Dutch painter this season. Whether you’re a casual fan of impressionist paintings or a hardcore art enthusiast, we bet you’ll be blown away by the mesmerising Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience - a 360-degree exhibition that has drawn crowds in Europe and USA before making its way to Singapore.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Blending modern technology with classic artwork, the exhibition is as interactive as it is cathartic, and will make you feel like you’re one with the illustrations. There will also be complimentary tea from Matchaya as part of the Japanese tea demonstrations!
#18: Embark on an AR fantasy quest with The Lost Fairy at GBTB
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay just got a lot more magical with the introduction of The Lost Fairy, a new story-based AR experience suitable for all ages. On this quest, you’ll be helping Aerin, a lost fairy, find her family whom she got tragically separated from during a typhoon. As you go about this journey flitting through the enchanted garden together, you’ll be meeting other special creatures and discovering surprises along the way.
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
There’s no extra charge required to partake in this game - all you need to do is download the app you’re good to go (available on Android only).
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
To reward you for your efforts, Gardens by the Bay will be rewarding you with a 15% off voucher for Hopscotch when you complete the mission. This will be available for redemption till 31 March 2023 and no minimum spend is required.
The Lost Fairy
Date: Ongoing
Time: Monday to Friday: 10am - 7pm | Saturday, Sunday & PHs: 10am - 8pm
Location: Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay
Price: $10 for Singaporean Adults
Website
#19: Be enchanted by Disney On Ice
Photo from Disney On Ice
Experience your favourite Disney tales from a whole new perspective with Disney On Ice - an enchanting extravaganza full of graceful ice-skating choreography and aerial acts. Witness beloved characters like the Disney Princesses, Mickey and Friends, and the Finding Nemo glide about effortlessly on ice, as they sing and groove along to familiar tunes from iconic Disney films.
On top of that, you can also look forward to participating in the fun with Mickey’s special “Mouse Pad” as you revisit these stories from your childhood.
#20: Create your own personalised Pokéball terrarium
Photo from The Vintage Realm
My Art Studio is hosting a slew of art workshops this month, including a Pokéball terrarium class that’ll let you personalise your own little nature landscape featuring your favourite Pokémon. Other workshops during this period include Van Gogh Yarn Art and Minecraft Pixel Art Acrylic Painting - all are great ways to bond with your partner instead of sticking to the same ol’ Neflix and cafe-hopping routine. Check out their Instagram post for more details.
Note: Image for illustration purposes only
Pokéball Terrarium workshop
Date & Time: 10am - 1pm: 14, 15, & 16 March 2023 | 2pm - 5pm: 12, 14, 15, & 16 March 2023
Location: My Art Studio
Price: $90/person
Website
