10 New Things To Do In January 2025: ARTBOX, Culture Cartel, Light To Night & More
January has just kicked off, but it already seems set to be a month that never sleeps. We mean it almost literally — what with some of the biggest art, lifestyle, and dining events like ARTBOX, Culture Cartel and Light to Night Singapore happening within weeks (or even days) of each other!
Yes, your 2025 is certainly starting with a bang. But the real question is: which ones are you putting on your calendar first? Read on for our list of 10 most exciting new activities and events this month.
1. Slither your way into stunning views of spring blossom trees and floral displays at Gardens by the Bay
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
It’s never too early to begin your Lunar New Year festivities, especially when it comes to exploring floral displays as ethereal as the ones at Spring Blossoms: Legend of Lady White Snake. Inspired by one of China’s most romantic legends, the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay will be transformed into a magical garden of auspicious blooms — just in time to usher in the Year of the Snake.
Whether you're a nature lover or just looking to escape the afternoon heat, this one is definitely an easy pick for the month of January. Plus, with the promise of Chinese-inspired photo spots and explosions of colour in the form of floral arrangements, it’s sure to keep everyone in the fam entertained.
Spring Blossoms: Legend of Lady White Snake
Date: 17 January - 23 February 2025
Time: 9am - 9pm daily
Location: Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Price: From $12 per adult
Website | Facebook | Instagram
2. Eat, shop and play the day away at ARTBOX Singapore 2025
Photo from ARTBOX Singapore
The iconic container festival, ARTBOX Singapore, is pulling out all the stops for its biggest and boldest edition yet! Spanning two jam-packed weekends, this year’s extravaganza brings together over 600 vendors from Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. The brand-new ARTBOX Estate is the star of the show, where towering container installations reimagine Singapore’s HDB blocks in fun new ways!
Photo from ARTBOX Singapore
Don’t miss the ARTBOX Convenience Store, showcasing exclusive artist-designed merch (hello, oversized chess pieces!) and Mini Box’s whimsical workshops, where the little ones can unleash their creativity. You can also try your luck at VOLT Auto for a chance to win an EV worth $90,000 or belt out your favourite tunes at Teo Heng’s open mic stage. And foodies, rejoice! Bangkok’s famous 'After You' dessert chain is making its Singapore debut — don’t leave without trying their legendary Shibuya Honey Toast!
ARTBOX Singapore 2025
Date: 17 - 19 and 24 - 26 January 2025
Time: 12 - 11 pm (last entry at 10pm)
Location: Singapore Expo Hall 4, 1 Expo Dr, Singapore 486150
Price: From $6 per person (single general entry)
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3. Step inside the creative chaos of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s mind at Behind the Canvas Series 1
Photo from Covenant ART
Get ready to wander through the electric brilliance of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s world, where bold colours, raw emotion, and cultural commentary collide. Behind the Canvas Series 1: Jean-Michel Basquiat is making its global premiere right here in Singapore, transforming Marina Bay Sands into a 16,000-square-foot playground of neo-expressionist genius.
Photo from Covenant ART
This immersive journey unfolds across 10 themed rooms, showcasing rare archival treasures like 160 pages from Basquiat’s Unknown Notebooks and 12 never-before-seen works that offer an intimate glimpse into his artistic process. Get hands-on at The Den by creating your own digital self-portraits or sketching with chalk in the Basquiat Expression Room.
Photo from Covenant ART
And for those looking for a touch of nightlife nostalgia, look out for Crown and Canvas, a vibrant lounge inspired by Basquiat’s favourite haunts like Studio 54.
Behind the Canvas Series 1: Jean-Michel Basquiat
Date: From now till 6 March 2025
Time: 10am - 8pm daily
Location: Marina Bay Sands, Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Hall D
Price: From $48 (Singapore residents) and $58 (non-residents). Free for children under six.
Tickets | Website
4. Raise a glass to luxury while exploring Crafted, by Hennessy, a travelling exhibition
Photo from Hennessy
Take a break from shopping at Orchard Road and head over to Crafted, by Hennessy, the sip-worthy exhibition you didn’t know you needed, till now. Making its Singapore debut at ION Art, this travelling showcase brings the elegance of Hennessy’s 300-year legacy right to our doorstep.
Photo from Hennessy
Dive into a sensory-rich journey through the art of cognac-making, from its storied beginnings in British Malaya to today’s global acclaim. Expect to see rare bottles like the Dame-Jeanne and Paradis Unlimited (worth a jaw-dropping €1.38M!), an immersive look at the brand’s distillation process, and even an exclusive peek at ShuTing Qiu’s chic, fashion-forward collaboration bottles.
Photo from Hennessy
But it doesn’t end there — treat your palate to select pours of Hennessy’s finest while learning about the legacy of its iconic Tasting Committee. Fancy something personal? The retail section offers bespoke engraving services to add a luxe touch to your visit. Whether you’re a history buff or a cognac enthusiast, this unique exhibit is certainly worth a look around.
Crafted, by Hennessy
Date: 13 - 26 January 2025
Time: 10am - 10pm daily (timeslots available in 30 min intervals)
Location: ION Art, Level 4, ION Orchard, Singapore
Price: Admission is FREE (Reservations are highly encouraged)
Reservations | Website | Facebook | Instagram
5. Immerse yourself in iconic soundtracks at The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber
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In case you haven’t heard of him, Andrew Lloyd Webber is the mastermind behind some of the world’s greatest musicals, ever. We’re talking about the soundtracks of Phantom of the Opera, CATS, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Sunset Boulevard and more! Now, you’ll be able to enjoy iconic pieces from these shows all in one go at The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber – A Symphonic Gala Concert.
This one-weekend-only spectacular features powerhouse performances by West End stars Josh Piterman and Amy Manford, both celebrated for their roles in The Phantom of the Opera. Conducted by the brilliant Jessica Gethin and accompanied by a live symphony orchestra, this magical experience will transport you through Broadway's greatest moments with soaring vocals and mesmerising melodies. Sounds like a must-see for theatre buffs and music lovers alike.
The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber – A Symphonic Gala Concert
Date:
10 - 11 January 2025
Time:
7.30pm
Location:
Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave, B1-69/70 The Shoppes, Singapore 018971
Price:
From $63 per person
Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. Dive headfirst into street culture galore at Culture Cartel 2025: ICONS Uprising
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Street culture fans, this one’s for you! Culture Cartel 2025: ICONS Uprising is making its grand return, this time even bigger and bolder than ever before. Taking over a massive 100,000 sq ft space, this fifth edition is a three-day extravaganza celebrating the trailblazers of street culture and the rising stars to keep an eye on.
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Expect a star-studded lineup of over 250 local and global brands and artists, immersive exhibitions, and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations. From McDonald’s Singapore’s debut as the Main Culture Icon Partner to CASETiFY’s limited-edition phone cases and White Rabbit’s first-ever bubble tea launch, there’s something for everyone.
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Don’t miss the chance to get snapped by celeb photographer Phillip Leeds, marvel at Alex Turnbull’s iconic Stüssy Tribe Jacket Collection, or grab limited pieces of David Huynh’s viral dollar bill art. Add in Tony Rapacioli’s groundbreaking AI art exhibit, and you’ve got one unmissable cultural explosion.
Culture Cartel 2025: ICONS Uprising
Date:
17 - 19 January 2025
Time:
2pm - 10pm (VIP), 3pm - 10pm (General) on 17 January | 10am - 10pm (VIP), 11am - 10pm (General) on 18 & 19 Jan
Location:
Singapore Expo Hall 5, Expo Dr, Singapore 486150
Price:
General admission from $16
Website | Facebook | Instagram
7. Discover installations, performances and film masterpieces from all over the globe at ART SG 2025
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Art enthusiasts, mark your calendars! ART SG 2025, Southeast Asia’s premier international art fair, is back this January. Over three days, the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre will transform into a vibrant hub showcasing works from 105 leading galleries across 30 countries. Visitors will get to check out installations, performances, panel talks, and enjoy an exciting film program in collaboration with the ArtScience Museum!
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This year’s highlights include the PLATFORM sector's large-scale installations, a thought-provoking film program curated with Bangkok Kunsthalle, and TALKS featuring top art world thinkers. The fair is divided into three engaging sections to explore: GALLERIES for multi-artist showcases, FOCUS for thematic exhibitions, and FUTURES supporting younger galleries with fresh, innovative works.
ART SG 2025
Date: 17–19 January 2025
Time: 12 - 7 pm on 17 January | 11am - 7pm on 18 January | 11am - 5pm on 19 January
Location: Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
Price: From $27 per person
Tickets | Website | Facebook | Instagram
8. Explore KADA, a trendy new lifestyle and dining space that’s set to be the next New Bahru
Photo from KADA
Love checking out new spaces? Well, there’s a new cafe-hopping, wellness and retail therapy hotspot in town that’s just brimming with character! Meet KADA, a trendy multi-concept space housed in a 101-year-old heritage building behind Maxwell Food Centre. Boasting Singapore’s oldest electric lift from 1929 (yes, you can ride it!), the place blends historic charm with sleek, modern vibes across four curated levels.
Photo from KADA
Here’s what to keep an eye out for during your trip: Level 1 delights coffee enthusiasts with unique brews from Pacto by Parchmen, Kyuukei, and more, alongside delicious eats like dim sum by day and yakitori by night. On Level 2, wellness reigns with everything from pilates to ice baths. Level 3 unveils a sleek co-living concept, while Level 4 offers rooftop private dining and art jamming with city views.
KADA
Address: 5 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069183
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9. Illuminate your senses and watch the city come to life at Light To Night Singapore 2025
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Get ready to bask in brilliance as Light to Night Singapore returns for its 9th edition and lights up the National Gallery Singapore and Civic District yet again! This year’s theme, “Do You See Me?”, dares you to look deeper — into diverse identities, unexpected perspectives, and reflections of the past, present, and future.
Expect a lineup that’s equal parts dazzling and thought-provoking. Marvel at Art Skins on Monuments, where Singaporean and Southeast Asian artists transform iconic facades into glowing masterpieces.
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Swoon over works by homegrown legends like Chng Seok Tin, Goh Beng Kwan, and Han Sai Por, and when the weekend hits, dive into Art X Social: Festival Street for irresistible eats, buzzing street art, and live performances under the stars. Perfect for date nights or family outings, the festival offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to engage with art in unconventional ways. Pro tip: start your visit after dark for the full luminous experience!
Light To Night Singapore 2025
Date: 17 January - 6 February 2025
Time: Various timings (check the event programme for more information)
Location: National Gallery Singapore, with installations around the Civic District
Price: Admission is FREE, with ticketed events available
Website | Facebook | Instagram
10. Sit back, relax and indulge in a cup of CHAGEE at their newest VivoCity flagship store
Photo from CHAGEE Singapore
Milk tea lovers, you can’t miss this one! CHAGEE will be unveiling their brand new (and largest!) flagship store at VivoCity come 10 January, which will be a sprawling 4,047-square-foot space. and stunning promenade-facing views. Featuring alfresco seating with promenade views and exclusive tea pairings, this chic space is a haven for tea enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike.
Photo from CHAGEE Singapore
To celebrate, enjoy 1-for-1 deals on bestselling drinks, limited-edition Peranakan-inspired merchandise, and eco-friendly items crafted from upcycled tea grounds, plus a chance to win premium prizes with the Tear & Win promo from 10–12 January.
Photo from CHAGEE Singapore
Don’t miss K-pop star MINNIE from (G)I-DLE, who will appear on 11 January to kick off the festivities. Designed with a “Wave” concept inspired by the sea, CHAGEE VivoCity promises a tranquil yet indulgent experience. Whether you’re here for the tea, the views, or the vibe, this flagship store is your next must-visit destination.
CHAGEE VivoCity Flagship Store
Launch Date: From 10 January 2025
Special Appearance by MINNIE: 11 January 2025
Address: VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, #01-98, Singapore 098585
Opening Hours: 9am - 10pm on weekdays | 9am - 10.30pm on weekends
Website | Facebook | Instagram
More exciting activities and spaces to check out in Singapore:
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