If you are planning to find out how to let your child score A* for the PSLE Science paper, I can assure you that you will not find it at Singapore Science Festival 2019. BUT if you are looking to let the kids get involve, learn and get all excited about Science through experiential learning, then the 19th edition of the Singapore Science Festival is where you want to be at.
Because science need not be intimidating - it can be extremely fun and simple enough for all ages to understand... and that is what the festival is all about as it takes place over 3 weekends, all through the September school holidays!
Here's what happening over the next 3 weekends at Singapore Science Festival 2019:
30 Aug to 1 Sep 2019
The Magical Math and Science Show 30 - 31 Aug 2019 | Plaza Singapura | 4PM | Free Admission
Eddie Goldstein is a science communicator, program developer and performer who specializes in creating dynamic presentations, demonstrations and exhibits for museums and science centres all over the world.
Perfect for all ages, this show will provide a unique combination of scientific demonstrations, intriguing explanations and sleight of hand magic. Not only will you learn science, but you will also have fun, fun and fun!
Science Buskers Festival 30 - 31 Aug 2019 | Plaza Singapura, Outdoor Plaza | 10am to 6pm | Free
Watch Science comes alive through the performance of the lively Science Buskers at the Science Buskers Festival!
The Science Buskers Festival encompasses the idea of developing the individual's communication skills through expressions of science in creative manners. Organized as a competition, this event serves as an excellent platform to spread key messages relating to the importance of inspiring an interest in science. During the competition, contestants will do a "show-and-tell" on any science topic, and judging will be based on audiences' votes and judges' scores.
6 to 8 Sep 2019
Snow Science Festival 6 - 15 Sep 2019 | Snow City | 10am to 6pm | Admission charges apply
This September holiday, experience the “cooler” side of life by participating in a host of fun activities at Snow City. Get caught in Snow City’s snow blizzard, or witness firsthand the magic created by snow and science!
Incredible Edibles, the chemistry of cookies 7 - 8 Sep 2019 | Plaza Singapura | 3pm to 3.30pm | Free Admission
Join Scientist Kate Mulcahy as she gives you a delicious scoop behind one of the world's favourite treat - the cookie! Learn more about the role each ingredient plays and be amazed by the chemical transformations that take place while baking.
This is a 40-minute long interactive science show with live science demonstrations and volunteer participation.
Jointly organised by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and the Singapore Science Centre, X-Periment! aims to bring out some of the latest scientific research out of the labs and allows hands-on activities to the public, encouraging hands-on experiences in science.
Fancy a peek at what goes on behind-the sciences in science? Discover the latest developments and research by researches from universities, research institutions and companies at X-periment!, a two-day science carnival, where they will demonstrate their new, cutting-edge innovations on the theme of Future Health. Great science discovery for the whole family!
Singapore Largest Slime Installation 13 Sep 2019 | Fusionopolis One | 10am - 6pm | Free
SSF is on a mission to break another record! Contribute to the biggest slime installation in town by creating your very own batch of slime. Icky, gooey fun that is larger than life and great for a family day out.
Special Science Show by Royal Institution 13 - 14 Sep 2019 | Genesis Theatre, Fusionopolis One | 5:15pm | Free
Brought to you all the way from the United Kingdom by Royal Institution, catch an exciting science spectacle featuring a host of live demonstrations sure to excite you!
Witness energy work in action, from elastic to gravitational, kinetic to chemical, see some fiery and maybe even explosive demonstrations of what energy is and how it affects our lives.Explore the different types of energy stores, and how each of them can do work. From flaming butane bubbles to exploding tin cans, we look at the movement of energy from one store to another, underlining the notion that energy cannot be created or destroyed.
"The Impossible" Science Sessions with Jason Latimer 13 - 14 Sep 2019 | Genesis Theatre, Fusionopolis One | 2.30pm | Free
Magic? Or just Science? Famed American magician Jason Latimer shows you the secret to “the Impossible”. From bending light to shaping water, take a journey beyond the illusions in a one of a kind magical science show!
unbeli-BUBBLE 13 - 14 Sep 2019 | Ecogarden, Science Centre Singapore | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4.30pm | Free but Science Centre admission charges apply
Get your hands soapy and get ready to learn the science behind bubbles. Why are they round? Why do bubbles pop? Why do they stick together? There is a lot more to know about bubbles through this amazing hands-on activity.
From 31 August to 15 September 2019 (that's the end of the September school holidays), Sentosa Sandsation is back at Siloso Beach - with a Star Wars theme!
The inaugural event under a three-year collaboration between Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia, Sentosa Sandsation: Star Wars Edition is Southeast Asia’s largest sand sculpting festival, spanning almost 3,000 square metres and running from 31 August to 15 September 2019, between 10.00am and 8.30pm daily.
And yes, entry into the event is FREE for all.
20 larger-than-life sand sculptures of iconic Star Wars characters
Promising fun for all ages, Sentosa Sandsation: Star Wars Edition will feature:
- 20 Star Wars-themed sand sculptures: Immerse yourself amongst iconic characters brought to life by some of the world’s most renowned sand artists, including Singapore’s very own JOOheng Tan.
There are the classic Star Wars characters from the original trilogy - the stuff that I grew up with.
And then, there are the newer Star Wars movies.
- Embrace the light side of the Force with Yoda, Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Chewbacca and Rey or harness the power of the dark with Darth Vader, Jabba the Hutt, Boba Fett and Kylo Ren.
- Sand sculpting workshops and ‘live’ demonstrations: Head on down to the daily free sand sculpting workshops located right on the event ground!
Happening throughout Sentosa Sandsation: Star Wars Edition with three timeslots at 11.00am, 2.00pm and 5.00pm on a first come first served basis, this would be the perfect place for you to learn from the masters.
- Guests can also look forward to Jabba the Hutt being brought to life by internationally renowned sculptor JOOheng progressively throughout the event.
- Sentosa International Sand Sculpting Competition: Watch the world’s best sand masters compete to craft fantastic sand art masterpieces at the third edition of the Sentosa International Sand Sculpting Championship, which will be held from 31 August to 2 September.
- Free movie screenings: Guests can also make it a whole day out with free movie screenings at Palawan Green. Happening at 7.45pm on 31 August, 1, 14 and 15 September, grab a picnic mat and enjoy family bonding time on the green.
Free entry into Sentosa
From 31 August to 15 September 2019, enjoy complimentary entry into Sentosa when you:
· Enter via Sentosa Express trains: Simply tap your EZ-Link card on the gantry for free entry. Singapore residents without an EZ-Link card can present their NRIC or valid identification pass to our guest ambassadors for free entry.
· Drive in: Singapore-registered vehicles (except motorcycles) can enter Sentosa for free during this period.
From the Beach Station transport hub, take a 750-metre stroll down Siloso Beach to where Sentosa Sandsation: Star Wars Edition is. Alternatively, guests can hop on the dedicated shuttle loop service which runs from Beach Station to Imbiah Lookout to Siloso Point. The shuttle runs from 12pm to 9.30pm daily for the duration of the event with an interval of approximately 15 minutes.
Oh, you can also enjoy $5 off Grab rides into Sentosa when you use the promo code: SANDSATION
Yet another fun (and FREE) event to bring the kids to this September school holidays! Useful Information Sentosa Sandsation: Star Wars Edition Dates: 31 August to 15 September 2019 Time: 10am - 8.30pm daily Venue: Siloso Beach, Sentosa FREE Admission Map:
Singapore Night Festival returns for its 12th edition from 23 to 31 August 2019 and already, three light installations have been opened since 8 August 2019. This year, festival goers can expect stunning light art installations, performances and programmes presented by local and international artists. And in a nod to the Singapore Bicentennial, some of these will feature a Southeast Asian twist.
Illuminating iconic facades and unexpected spaces, the annual Night Lights also returns from 23 August with 17 light artworks comprising of both projections and installations, encouraging festival-goers to reimagine familiar landmarks with their artistry and interactivity.
So if you are planning to head down, here is the ultimate family-friendly Singapore Night Festival survivor's guide you need for this and next weekend!
First things first, Singapore Night Festival is essentially divided into 5 zones:
Zone 1: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE
Zone 2: ARMENIAN STREET + CHIJMES
Zone 3: SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY (SMU) CAMPUS GREEN
Zone 4: WATERLOO STREET + QUEEN STREET
Zone 5: CATHAY GREEN + DHOBY GHAUT GREEN
Zone 1: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE
Keep Dreaming Venue: National Museum of Singapore, Façade (Zone 1) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Without a doubt, this is THE light projection show to catch if you have only time for one. And trust me when I say the kids will love it!
Kids (and adults) can waatch the National Museum of Singapore come to life as three mysterious characters awaken from their deep slumber to embark on an adventure. As we join them on this whimsical journey, allow wonder and curiosity to take over as the secrets of this fantasy wonderland unravel before your eyes.
Click below to watch a sneak preview!
The Legend of Ramayana Venue: National Museum of Singapore, Banyan Tree (Zone 1) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
The famed National Museum of Singapore’s Banyan tree takes centrestage, with a projection by internationally renowned French group Spectaculaires titled The Legend of Ramayana, inspired by the Indian epic poem.
This marks the first time that the Banyan tree will see a projection work complemented by a stirring gamelan instrumental performance, which retells the story of the Ramayana in traditional Javanese tembang or poetry. The epic story follows Prince Rama’s quest to rescue his beloved wife Sita from the demon King Ravana, through the eyes of a venerable Banyan tree.
WHISPERS (Air-con!) Venue: Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore Dates and Time: 8 - 22 Aug, 1 - 8 Sep 2019: 10am - 7pm 23 - 24 Aug, 29 - 31 Aug 2019: 10am - 12mn 25 - 28 Aug 2019: 10am - 10pm
At first glance, the set-up seems pretty simplistic - which consists of huge fans and giant plastic sheets. And I have to admit the beginning of the 12-minute show is a little slow. But have a little patience and I guarantee that it will be a spell-binding experience!
Executed to dramatic effect on a large scale, the immersive wind therapy session evolves from a mersmerizing hypnotic build to an overwhelming display of strength, combining forces both subtle and powerful to evoke an experience of elemental sensation.
For best effects, do position yourself in the centre of the installation to bear the full brunt of the wind!
Kids will love the experience, I reckon. But do note that the installations starts off in total darkness so if you have young kids, it might be good to prep them before heading in. Other than that, I have to say this is really one mersmerizing installation. Who knew plastic sheets and giant fans can conjure up something like this???
INTERGALACTIC DREAMS (Air-con!) Venue: Various locations within National Museum of Singapore Dates and Time: 8 - 22 Aug, 1 - 8 Sep 2019: 10am - 7pm 23 - 24 Aug, 29 - 31 Aug 2019: 10am - 12mn 25 - 28 Aug 2019: 10am - 10pm
Exploring the effects of climate change, the three-part installation Intergalactic Dreams by Singaporean artist Jahan Loh captures his exploration of althernative homes in an imagined future where Earth is no longer hospitable.
Zone 2: ARMENIAN STREET + CHIJMES
S.C.U.L.P.T Venue: Armenian Church (Zone 2) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
First presented in France, S.C.U.L.P.T has been fully redesigned for its debut international showing in Singapore. Tailored to fit every square centimetre of the Armenian Church’s centuries-old chevet, this artwork is the perfect marriage of projection mapping and interactivity, allowing visitors to manipulate its form and appearance with simple laser beams using their hands!
Accompanied with a soundscape composed by EZ3kiel, S.C.U.L.P.T immerses visitors into a personal world of art and technology.
Symbiote Venue: Walkway along Stamford Road (Zone 2) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
An installation that juxtaposes tension and lightness, Symbiote allows visitors to qander between thin, seamless fabric into an airy and undulating space, a response to Singapore’s dynamic multicultural and multireligious societal fabric, and be immersed in a manifestation of Singaporeans’ interdependence.
The Stamford Court clock comes to life with bright and bubbly colours, and an extravagant coating of warm tropical vibes under the sun. Washed up with whacky shades and wicked lines, this playful animated projection by The Electric Canvas will greet visitors as they arrive at the Singapore Night Festival.
Disco Walkway Venue: Walkway along Stamford Road (Zone 2) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Ever wandered through the city, a musical rhythm guiding your feet and compelling you to add a little hop and a skip? Inspired by the unheard tunes of the city, Disco Walkway adds vibrancy to the Stamford Walkway with glowing neon-coloured cubes and music.
Waves of Time Venue: CHIJMES (Zone 2) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Inspired by Singapore’s very own legend of a Prince who journeyed across the seas to visit Singapore, this façade projection on the historic CHIJMES chapel re-imagines the journey of the Prince chasing his dream to and around our island.
In following the journey of the Prince, viewers explore the depths of the underwater world and encounter the variety of ethnic cultures which came together because of maritime connections, reminding us of how Singapore as a nation has been shaped by centuries of maritime trade and travel.
Armenian Street Park Festival Village Dates and opening hours: 23, 24, 30 & 31 August 2019 | 6pm – 12mn 29 August 2019 | 8pm – 12mn
Treat your taste buds to a wide selection of specially curated food and drinks at the Festival Village!
Zone 3: SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY (SMU) CAMPUS GREEN
Project:Dome (Air-con!) Venue: SMU Campus Green (Zone 3) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
There areFIVE shows within the dome: OCISLY,Soul Beads in Harmony, The Land Above, SOLIS and Strange Attraction.
For kids though, OCISLY will be the one to watch.
Leave your mark at the Singapore Night Festival with this crowd-sourced digital projection. Everyone can be a creator in the Project:Dome! Just scan the OCISLY QR code with your mobile device, select your emoticon and release it to populate the evolving atmosphere of the dome. Feel free to spawn as many emoticons as you want - kids will love it! 😁
In:Sight Venue: SMU Campus Green (Zone 3) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Take a moment from your exploration of the Singapore Night Festival to admire the unique light art installations that not just transform the university campus into an otherworldly space, but also add pizzazz to your SNF 2019 photo-moments!
Glow Away Venue: SMU Campus Green (Zone 3) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
See slime in new light at this UV-lit installation created by members of the community. Participants from NHB’s HeritageCares programme lent their hands in making the slime which fills the luminescent public art installation.
Zone 4: WATERLOO STREET + QUEEN STREET
Sk(r)etch Venue: Queen Street (outside Kum Yan Methodist Church) (Zone 4) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Inspired by childhood “mischiefs” of doodling on everything – Ca Kway Teow invites everyone to loosen up and get in touch with their inner child in this alternative space.
Sk(r)etch is where the public is encouraged to leave their marks, quite literally, by scratching off the paint to reveal bright colours and patterns, created using 3M™ Reflective Sheeting, that come together to tell Singapore’s story. TIP: Turn on your camera flash when taking the photo to see an illuminated effect!
Work-in-progress (Air-con!) Venue: National Design Centre (Zone 4) Dates: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
Asylum celebrates their 20th anniversary with an installation piece titled Work-in-progress. A scaffold structure populated with animated light formations brings across endless possibilities of “imagination”, the foundation to Asylum’s pursuit of creativity.
Skylight and Timeline: Printed Lighting Technology of A*STAR Venue: Queen Street (outside Kum Yan Methodist Church) (Zone 4) Date: 23 – 31 August 2019 Time: 7.30pm – 12mn
You’ve seen its photo-worthy aesthetics on advertisements, decorations, pretty packaging and more. Now Made-in-Singapore technology finds new creative expression through Art for this inspired design collaboration with NAFA for the Singapore Night Festival! Using electricityconductible ink and paper-thin films to create flexible light-emitting sheets, Skylight and Timeline are works of art that transform the practical pavements of Queen Street into an innovative coupling of Art and Science!
The only ticketed show at Singapore Night Festival 2019, the internationally renowned Fuerza Bruta has performed to more than 6 million spectators in sold-out shows across 34 countries and 58 cities!
Look forward to a 360-degree sensory theatre party spectacle performed over and around a standing audience. Brace yourself for an adrenaline rush in this kinetic combination of high energy and action-packed aerial acrobatics performance. Let reality take a backseat as performers soar to the skies and pack in plenty of surprises with mind-blowing lighting visual effects just inches away from you. A show that sets one free from inhibitions and transcends language and conventional theatre, here’s your chance to fully immerse yourself and be brutally happy!
Dhoby Ghaut Green Festival Village
Dates: 23 – 24, 29 – 31 August 2019
Opening hours: 6pm – 12mn
Treat your taste buds to a wide selection of specially curated food and drinks at the Festival Village!
TIPS TO SURVIVING SINGAPORE NIGHT FESTIVAL 2019
Okay, so you are ready to head down with the kids. But before you do so, here are some handy tips that will make your experience a better one.
1. KNOW WHERE TO GO
It is always good to prep yourself by getting familiar with the area before going down. Download the festival map HERE or head to Singapore Night Festival's website to plan your itinerary for the night.
This year, the bulk of the fun light installations are situated in Zone 1 and Zone 2. So if you have limited time, head to both Zones 1 and 2 which will probably take the bulk of the night.
Hungry and thristy? There are TWO Festival Villages this year. One is located in Zone 2 at Armenian Street while the other is at Zone 5, at Dhoby Ghaut Green beside Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.
For some air-conditioned comfort, head to Zone 2's Project:Dome and Zone 4's Work-in-progress light installations.
2. DRESS COMFORTABLY
It is going to be crowded, hot and humid so be sure to dress in comfortable clothing and wear a pair of comfy shoes to prepare for the walking exercise!
3. CARRY LIGHT
For the Fuerza Bruta show as well as entry to the Festival Villages, there will be security checks before entering the areas. So if you do not want to get stuck in the long queues, head down WITHOUT a bag and you will be able to breeze through the express lane.
4. HYDRATE YOURSELVES
For sure, it will be humid so remember to let the kids drink enough water throughout the night. Beer will suffice for the adults, I reckon.
HAVE FUN!
Useful Information
Singapore Night Festival 2019
Dates: 23 - 31 August 2019 | Performance nights on 29, 30 & 31 Aug 2019
Time: 7.30pm to 12 midnight
Venue: Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct
FREE Admission
*While entry to SNF is free, some programmes in the line-up are ticketed.
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