Things to do in JB this month – September 2025
Planning a quick getaway has become one of our favourite pastimes in friend group chats. To make your life easier, we’ve scoured the internet for the best things to do in JB this August that you can add to your 1-day JB itinerary.
From massive book sales and baby expos to food fests, thrift markets, and even a music festival by the beach, there’s plenty happening just an hour’s drive from Singapore. Whether you’re stocking up on bargains, chasing good eats, or simply looking for something fresh to do on the weekends, these events might just make that cross-border hop worth your while.
Mind you, these limited-time events are on top of our list of 100 things to do in JB.
Table of Contents
1. BIG Baby Expo
5th-7th Sep
Whether you’re expecting or already knee-deep in parent life, the BIG Baby Expo at Mid Valley Southkey has all the essentials. From strollers and breast pumps to baby-safe toiletries, you’ll find products across more than 300 booths. It’s a one-stop shop to stock up on newborn shopping and maternity must-haves. Did we mention that there are deals starting at RM1 (~S$0.30)?
Admission: Free
Venue: Mid Valley Southkey
Dates: 5th-7th Sep
Time: 11am-9pm
Contact: BIG Baby Expo website
2. Big Bad Wolf Book Sale
28th Aug-8th Sep
Image adapted from: @johorevent via Instagram
This is for the bookworms and those looking to restock their bookshelves. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has up to 95% off on almost 1 million books, plus a special highlight on Malaysian authors and local publishers. Of course, books from international authors are available too. Prices on items can go down to RM1 (~S$0.30) – now that’s a true steal!
Admission: Free
Venue: Paradigm Mall CC
Dates: 28th Aug-8th Sep
Time: 10am-10pm
Contact: Big Bad Wolf Books Instagram
3. MaQan Food Fest 2025
12th-14th Sep
As if we needed more reasons to binge on Malaysian food across the border, MaQan Food Fest 2025 is a mega makan event with over 150 vendors. You’ll find local classics like begedil tofu as well as trendy snacks and treats like durian crepes. Apart from the F&B stalls, look forward to games such as pickleball, an art workshop, a haunted house, and an animal petting zone.
Admission: Free
Venue: Angsana Johor Bahru Mall
Dates: 12th-14th Sep
Time: 11am-11pm
Contact: MaQan Event Instagram
4. Ombak Festival 2025
12th-14th Sep
Music, food, and arts take centre stage at Ombak Festival 2025. Headliners this year are Simply Red, an English pop band; George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic; and the UK’s Joss Stone. You’ll also get to enjoy music from regional artists from Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Live performances aren’t the only thing happening at this festival – there’ll be mahjong open tables, food pop-ups, and kid-friendly activities like LEGO building. Tickets to the Friday event are already sold out, so if you’d like to go down, get the 1-day or 2-day pass for the weekend.
Admission: From RM350 (~S$106.63)
Venue: Desaru Coast
Dates: 12th-14th Sep
Time: 2pm-11pm
Contact: Ombak Festival website
5. Pop Up Market by Park Maya
12th-14th Sep
Image adapted from: @parkmayafest & @komtarjbcc via Instagram
While you can visit JB’s thrifting stores for secondhand gems, for a fun weekend activity, head to the Pop Up Market by Park Maya for your loot of thrifted items. You know the appeal – finding rare or unique items like preloved clothes, accessories, and local crafts. What’s a market without street food, coffee, and desserts? Find all that and more here.
Admission: Free
Venue: Link Bridge at Komtar JBCC
Dates: 12th-14th Sep
Time: 10am-10pm
Contact: Park Maya Fest Instagram
6. iFood Expo x Da Hong Hua International Tea & Cultural Expo 2025
12th-14th Sep
Image credit: IFood Expo via Facebook
Get ready for a feast for your senses at the iFood Expo x Da Hong Hua International Tea & Cultural Expo 2025. This 3-day culinary and cultural mash-up brings together regional and international food stalls, artisanal tea showcases, interactive tastings, and rich cultural performances. Whether you’re a foodie, tea lover, or simply hunting for a festive weekend vibe, this expo promises flavour, fun, and discovery for everyone.
Admission: Free
Venue: Mid Valley Southkey
Dates: 12th-14th Sep
Time: 11am-10pm
Contact: IFood Expo Facebook
7. Bean & Bite Festival 2025
13th-16th Sep
Image adapted from: @visitjohor via Instagram
As the name suggests, Bean & Bite Festival 2025 revolves around coffee and bakes. The market brings together artisan coffee brewers, home bakers, and even baristas bringing their own self-roasted coffee beans. Indulge in handcrafted desserts like pastries and gelato; cheer your favourite barista at the latte art competition; and get an IG-worthy snap at the 5-metre giant pastry display.
Admission: Free
Venue: Eco Galleria
Dates: 13th-16th Sep
Time: 12pm-10pm
Contact: Eco Galleria Instagram
8. Modern Living Home Expo
19th-21st Sep
Image credit: Modern Living Home Expo via Facebook
The Modern Living Home Expo is back, bringing together top lifestyle and home improvement brands under one roof. From custom wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, and flooring solutions to mattresses, appliances, and interior design services, you’ll find everything you need to upgrade your space.
Expect significant savings with exclusive expo deals, instant cash rebates, and guaranteed buyer protection, along with free expert advice to help you make informed choices. Every purchase comes with vouchers, premium gifts, and reward points you can use anytime too. Singapore shoppers, don’t worry about bulky buys that can be delivered straight to your doorstep.
Admission: Free
Venue: Mid Valley Southkey
Dates: 19th-21st Sep
Time: 11am-9pm
Contact: Modern Living Home Expo Facebook
9. Malaysia Sport & Leisure Expo
26th-28th Sep
Get ready, fitness buffs and weekend warriors; the Malaysia Sport & Leisure Expo is landing in Johor with over 300 booths and 250 brands spanning racquet sports, aquatics, fitness, wellness, outdoor gear, and lifestyle essentials. It’s Malaysia’s biggest expo of its kind. Test out the latest equipment, explore adventure-ready activities, and take part in fun game challenges with prizes up for grabs.
Admission: Free
Venue: Mid Valley Southkey
Dates: 26th-28th Sep
Time: 11am-9pm
Contact: Malaysia Sport & Leisure Expo Instagram
Mark your calendars for these fun things to do in JB in September 2025
With everything from latte art battles to international funk legends, JB this September has events that go beyond the usual shopping and food day trip. It’s a chance to soak in the buzz of big expos, indulge in Malaysian street food culture, and even catch a festival by the sea. If your weekends in Singapore are starting to feel same-same, hopping over the border could be the shake-up you need.
More to do across the causeway:
Cover image adapted from: @visitjohor & @ombakfestivalmy via Instagram, BIG Baby Expo