October 18-20, 2025
π Halloween Events
Anchorpoint Pumpkin Maze ββββ
Cost: FREE | Dates: Oct 18-26
A fantastic community Halloween experience that doesn’t break the bank. The pumpkin maze offers multiple activities including trick-or-treating, face painting, and photo booth opportunities. However, note that face painting requires a minimum $20 spend at the mall, which may feel like a barrier for some families. The event runs across multiple days, offering flexibility for busy schedules.
Best for: Ages 3-10 | Duration: 2-4 hours including mall exploration
The Seletar Mall’s Dark Carnival ββββ
Cost: Requires $40 minimum spend | Dates: Oct 10-24
This is Singapore’s answer to a family-friendly haunted experience. The Dark Carnival features haunted houses, escape rooms, and puzzles that are toned down for younger audiences. The Grand Carnival Masquerade on October 26 adds a competitive element with costume prizes. The minimum spend requirement is reasonable given you’ll likely grab meals there anyway.
Best for: Ages 6-14 (younger kids may find it scary) | Duration: 2-3 hours
313@somerset Roaming Witches βββ
Cost: FREE | Dates: Select evenings through Oct 31
A clever marketing activation that doubles as free entertainment. Kids get to spot and photograph roaming witches, with a chance to win vouchers through Instagram engagement. However, this is quite brief entertainment and works best as an add-on to other Orchard area activities rather than a destination event.
Best for: Ages 4-10 | Duration: 30 minutes
Halloween Horror Nights βββββ
Cost: From $58 | Ages: 13+ recommended
Singapore’s premier Halloween experience returns with four haunted houses including a Stranger Things-themed maze. While expensive, the production value is exceptional with professional actors, elaborate sets, and genuinely scary experiences. Not recommended for younger children despite parental supervision being allowed. This is Singapore’s most intense Halloween offering.
Best for: Teens and brave adults | Duration: 3-5 hours
πͺ Deepavali Celebrations
Singapore Discovery Centre βββββ
Cost: FREE | Dates: Oct 18-20
An exceptional cultural immersion experience. The free henna tattoos alone make this worthwhile, but the addition of multicultural performances, traditional games (Pulli Kolam, garland making) creates an authentic celebration. The venue is spacious and well-organized, making it comfortable even with crowds. This is one of the best free cultural events in Singapore.
Best for: All ages | Duration: 2-3 hours
Little India Light-Up βββββ
Cost: FREE | Now until Nov 9
The iconic peacock displays at Serangoon Road create an Instagram-worthy backdrop, but this is more than just photo ops. The entire precinct transforms with vendors, traditional clothing shops, and authentic food stalls. Evening visits are magical with the lights, but prepare for crowds on weekends. This is a must-visit cultural experience that doubles as a history lesson.
Best for: All ages | Duration: 1-2 hours (or longer with shopping/dining)
Indian Heritage Centre Open House βββββ
Cost: FREE museum entry | Weekends through Oct 19
Four weekends of free museum access is generous, but the additional programming elevates this. Drop-in craft activities (clay lotus ornaments, tealight holders), dress-up booths, and free henna art provide hands-on experiences. The festive market helps families prepare for Deepavali celebrations. Educational and entertaining in equal measure.
Best for: Ages 4+ | Duration: 2-3 hours
π Theater & Performances
Cirque Alice ββββ
Cost: From $78 | Oct 9-26
Marina Bay Sands hosts this Alice in Wonderland-themed circus spectacular featuring acrobatics, puppetry, and aerial performances. At $78+, it’s a significant investment, but the production values at Sands Theatre are consistently high. The whimsical theme appeals to children while the acrobatic skill impresses adults. A solid family entertainment choice for special occasions.
Best for: Ages 5+ | Duration: 90 minutes
The Three Billy Goats Gruff ββββ
Cost: From $22 | Oct 10-Nov 11
Singapore Repertory Theatre’s live musical adaptation offers excellent value at $22. The classic tale translated to stage format works beautifully for younger audiences who may not have the attention span for longer productions. Drama Centre Theatre provides an intimate setting. This is accessible theater that won’t stretch budgets.
Best for: Ages 3-8 | Duration: 60 minutes
The Dreamcatcher ββββ
Cost: From $78 | Oct 3-25
An interactive theatrical escape game set in a futuristic biotech city. The audience participation element makes this distinctive from traditional theater. Kids who love mystery and detective work will be engaged, though the futuristic/biotech theme may go over younger heads. Best suited for tweens and teens who want something different from conventional shows.
Best for: Ages 9-15 | Duration: 90 minutes
π¦ Exhibitions & Museums
Dinosaurs | Extinctions | Us (Science Centre) βββββ
Cost: $25.90-$29.90 | Opens Oct 11
This is the marquee family exhibition of the season. The 40-meter Patagotitan mayorum is genuinely awe-inspiring, and 33 real fossils provide educational depth beyond typical dino exhibitions. At 3,000 square meters with 13 dinosaur species, there’s substance here. The price includes Science Centre admission, making it reasonable value. Scotty the T-Rex is worth the admission alone.
Best for: Ages 4+ (dino fans of all ages) | Duration: 2-3 hours
Gallery Children’s Biennale βββββ
Cost: FREE for Singaporeans/PRs | Until March 29, 2026
Eight multi-sensory installations exploring Joy, Kindness, Love, and Dream themes. The fact that all installations are baby-friendly is remarkable and inclusive. National Gallery Singapore provides a prestigious setting, and the extended run through March 2026 removes any urgency. This is world-class children’s art programming accessible to all Singaporean families.
Best for: All ages (including babies!) | Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Unnatural History Museum (National Design Centre) βββββ
Cost: FREE | Until Oct 26
The 6-meter Merlion fossil is surreal and hilarious. This quirky exhibition featuring bizarre dioramas, faux taxidermy, and provocative displays (insects as food) challenges kids to think differently. It’s weird, wonderful, and thoroughly Singaporean. The free admission is generous for such creative content. Don’t miss this before it closes Oct 26.
Best for: Ages 7+ (some content may puzzle younger kids) | Duration: 1 hour
SG60 Heart&Soul Experience ββββ
Cost: FREE (booking required) | Until Dec 31
An immersive 60-90 minute journey through Singapore’s history with floor-to-ceiling projections. The multi-sensorial approach suits different learning styles. Free admission is excellent, but mandatory bookings can fill up quickly for weekends. The non-ticketed installations at Orchard Central provide alternatives if the main experience is full.
Best for: Ages 7+ | Duration: 60-90 minutes
Star Wars Pop-Up Library (Changi Airport) βββββ
Cost: FREE | Until Jan 24, 2026
Robot librarians retrieving books? This is genuinely innovative. Over 2,000 Star Wars titles in a spaceship-themed setting located conveniently at Changi Terminal 3. The robot retrieval process fascinates kids while parents browse. Free and unique to Singapore. Even non-Star Wars fans will enjoy the technology demonstration.
Best for: Ages 6+ (reading age) | Duration: 45-60 minutes
π¨ Cultural Events
Sarawak Mega Fair ββββ
Cost: FREE entry | Oct 16-17
A rare opportunity to experience Sarawak culture without leaving Singapore. Live cooking demos, wooden toys, cultural showcases, and authentic food (kolo mee!) create an immersive experience. The two-day window is limiting, but the breadth of activities justifies clearing your weekend schedule. Educational and delicious.
Best for: All ages | Duration: 2-3 hours
Vietnam Phα» Festival ββββ
Cost: FREE entry | Oct 18-19
Traditional Vietnamese outfits for photos, authentic phα», crafts, and live music create a complete cultural package. Located at Our Tampines Hub makes it accessible to East side residents. Free tickets (via Eventbrite) ensure crowd management. This is cultural tourism within Singaporeβeducational and tasty.
Best for: All ages | Duration: 1.5-2 hours
πͺ Pop Culture & Character Events
POP MART Labubu at Bugis+ ββββ
Cost: FREE entry | Oct 15-26
Huge photo opportunities featuring Labubu, Crybaby, and Twinkle Twinkle characters. The limited-edition Mokoko (pink Labubu) draws collectors. While primarily a commercial activation, the photo zones are elaborate and free. Long operating hours (10am-9:30pm) provide flexibility. Best for existing POP MART fans, though the displays are photogenic enough for curious newcomers.
Best for: Ages 5+ (character fans) | Duration: 30-45 minutes
Labubu Mini Market (VivoCity) ββββ
Cost: FREE | Until Oct 19
Life-sized Labubu installations themed as convenience store items (milk cartons, noodles, crisps) provide creative photo backdrops. Sky Park location at VivoCity means you can combine with other Sentosa/VivoCity activities. The execution is playful and well-designed. Ending Oct 19, so visit soon.
Best for: Ages 4-12 | Duration: 20-30 minutes
Monday Bruce at SCCC βββ
Cost: FREE | Until Nov 30
Giant blind box character installations at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre’s roof garden. While visually impressive, this is relatively passive entertainment (photo ops mainly). However, it provides a reason to visit SCCC and explore its other offerings. The extended run through November removes urgency.
Best for: Ages 5-12 | Duration: 20-30 minutes
πͺ Playgrounds & Active Play
‘A Whale of a Tale’ Playground (National Museum) βββββ
Cost: FREE | Open daily (just opened!)
This intergenerational playground bringing back the museum’s historic blue whale skeleton is thoughtfully designed. Sensory play features, accessible equipment, and senior workout areas demonstrate true inclusive design. The newness means crowds currently, and midday heat is intense. Visit early morning for best experience. This is Singapore outdoor playground design at its finest.
Best for: All ages and abilities | Duration: 1-2 hours
Rocketland at Aperia Mall ββββ
Cost: $10/hour (or free with CapitaStar) | Oct 13-18
The all-yellow design philosophy (reducing overstimulation) is evidence-based and appreciated by parents of sensory-sensitive kids. Four inflatables plus reward-based play stations keep kids engaged. The CapitaStar free pass option with minimum spend is clever marketing that benefits families. Closing Oct 18, so time is limited.
Best for: Ages 3-8 | Duration: 1-2 hours
π΅ Music & Arts
Sunset Circle at Capitol Singapore ββββ
Cost: FREE | Oct 19, one day only
An open art and music jam where creative talents gather. The $5 gift card for first 100 guests is generous. The open jam session welcoming all skill levels creates an inclusive atmosphere. This is community-building through arts. One-day-only nature makes it special but requires schedule commitment.
Best for: Ages 8+ (musically inclined families) | Duration: 2-3 hours
πͺ Miscellaneous Events
Octoburst! at Esplanade ββββ
Cost: FREE | Various dates through Oct 31
Self-guided adventure, ocean-themed crafts, and preschooler art exhibitions celebrating Children’s Day. Esplanade’s programming quality is consistently high, and free access is generous. The ocean theme ties activities together cohesively. Multiple dates provide flexibility.
Best for: Ages 3-10 | Duration: 1-2 hours
Peranakan Cable Cars ββββ
Cost: $4 round trip (2 pax) or $14 unlimited | Until Dec 31
Heritage-patterned cable car cabins offer cultural education with scenic views. The 1-for-1 deals make this exceptional value. Combining transportation with cultural experience and entertainment is smart. Sentosa accessibility means you can pair this with beach or attraction visits.
Best for: All ages | Duration: 30-60 minutes
Gateway Kids Club Storytelling ββββ
Cost: FREE | Saturdays in October
Monthly-themed storytelling (October: “Small but Mighty”) provides consistent weekend entertainment. Free admission and registration system ensures accessibility. The Saturday morning timing works well for families. This is reliable, quality programming that builds reading appreciation.
Best for: Ages 3-8 | Duration: 45-60 minutes
π° Value Assessment by Category
Best Free Events:
- Singapore Discovery Centre (Deepavali)
- Gallery Children’s Biennale
- A Whale of a Tale Playground
- Unnatural History Museum
- Little India Light-Up
Best Value Paid Events:
- The Three Billy Goats Gruff ($22)
- Dinosaurs Exhibition ($25.90-$29.90)
- Peranakan Cable Cars ($4-$14)
- Rocketland with CapitaStar ($0 with min spend)
Best for Toddlers (0-3):
- Gallery Children’s Biennale (baby-friendly!)
- A Whale of a Tale Playground
- Gateway Kids Club Storytelling
Best for Preschoolers (4-6):
- Anchorpoint Pumpkin Maze
- Singapore Discovery Centre
- Rocketland
- Dinosaurs Exhibition
Best for Primary School (7-12):
- Science Centre Dinosaurs
- Halloween events
- The Dreamcatcher
- Cultural festivals
Best for Teens:
- Halloween Horror Nights
- Cirque Alice
- The Dreamcatcher
- Sunset Circle music jam
π Top 5 Must-Do Events This Weekend
- Singapore Discovery Centre (Deepavali) – Free, cultural, hands-on, and meaningful
- Dinosaurs | Extinctions | Us – Major exhibition opening with real fossils and massive displays
- A Whale of a Tale Playground – Brand new, free, inclusive, and already a hit
- Indian Heritage Centre Open House – Free museum entry plus festivals market and activities
- Vietnam Phα» Festival OR Sarawak Mega Fair – Unique cultural immersion (choose based on cuisine preference!)
β οΈ Important Notes
Booking Required:
- SG60 Heart&Soul Experience
- Some theater shows
- Gateway Kids Club (registration)
Ending Soon:
- Unnatural History Museum (Oct 26)
- Labubu VivoCity (Oct 19)
- Rocketland (Oct 18)
Crowds Expected:
- New whale playground (visit early morning)
- Little India weekends
- Dinosaur exhibition opening weekend
Weather Considerations:
- Outdoor events (playgrounds, light-ups) best visited early morning or evening
- Have backup indoor plans during October’s unpredictable weather
π‘ Sample Itineraries
Budget-Conscious Family (All Free)
Saturday: Morning at A Whale of a Tale Playground β Afternoon at Indian Heritage Centre Open House β Evening Little India Light-Up
Sunday: Morning at Gallery Children’s Biennale β Afternoon Singapore Discovery Centre Deepavali event β Evening at home
Special Occasion Weekend
Saturday: Morning Dinosaurs Exhibition β Lunch β Afternoon Peranakan Cable Cars + Sentosa Beach β Evening Cirque Alice
Sunday: Brunch β Vietnam Phα» Festival β Labubu photo ops at VivoCity
Culture Vultures
Saturday: Sarawak Mega Fair (full morning/afternoon) β Evening Little India Light-Up + dinner
Sunday: Indian Heritage Centre β Singapore Discovery Centre β Unnatural History Museum
π Overall Weekend Rating: βββββ
This weekend offers exceptional variety spanning multiple cultures (Deepavali, Sarawak, Vietnamese), major new openings (Dinosaurs, Whale Playground), seasonal celebrations (Halloween), and consistent quality programming. The balance of free and paid options accommodates all budgets. Singapore’s event scene is firing on all cylinders this weekend.
Recommended approach: Choose one major event (Dinosaurs OR theater), one cultural festival, and fill gaps with free playgrounds/exhibitions. You literally cannot have a boring weekend with these options!