Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars
You probably know a thing or two about Peranakan culture, thanks to the iconic Channel 8 drama The Little Nyonya – which isn’t just a local favourite but even got a China remake. So if you’ve always wanted to dive deeper into the culture and experience it firsthand, make sure to check out the Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars event taking place at the Peranakan Museum from 14th-16th March 2025.
What to expect at the Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars event
Enjoy free admission to a special exhibition
Image adapted from: @peranakanmuseum via Instagram
There’s no better way to fully immerse yourself in the Peranakan culture than by dressing up in sarong kebaya or batik outfits to feel like a Nyonya or Baba. Even better, you’ll get to enjoy free admission to the limited-time exhibition, Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship, when you come dressed for the occasion. This deal is limited to the first 250 visitors each day, so be sure to head down early.
The exhibition lets you explore the lives and works of 3 generations of Peranakan women from Indonesia, and try your hand at 3 hands-on batik-making activities.
Don’t fret if you don’t own any traditional Peranakan wear – tickets to the special exhibition are available at a discounted rate of just $5 for Singaporeans and PRs, and $12 for foreigners. Plus, you’ll get to redeem exclusive Emerald Hill merch* with every special exhibition ticket purchased! Entry to the permanent exhibitions remains free for Singaporeans and PRs.
*Limited to the first 50 redemptions daily from 14th-16th March, 5pm-10pm. One item per ticket, while supplies last.
Free admission
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: Limited to the first 250 visitors per day
Special admission rates
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: 5pm-10pm
See a MasterChef Singapore judge in action
Image credit: Rempapa
Food is often the heart of any culture, and Peranakan cuisine is no exception. When you’re done exploring the exhibitions, catch MasterChef Singapore judge, Damian D’Silva, in an exclusive cooking demonstration.
Watch as he whips up nasi ulam, a homely dish of steamed rice served with fragrant herbs. Along the way, expect cooking tips and personal stories that bring the dish to life.
Admission is free but there are limited seatings available.
Masak Masak: Nasi Ulam with Chef Damian D’Silva
Date: 15th March 2025
Time: 5.30pm-6.30pm
Check out these other cooking demonstrations as well, held along Armenian Street throughout the event:
- 14th March 2025, 5.30PM: Krisada and Baba Richard Tan
- 16th March 2025, 5.30PM: Chef Philip Chia, food consultant for The Little Nyonya and Emerald Hill TV series
Get a makeover to dress like a Peranakan star for a day
Image credit: National Heritage Board
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like dressing like a Nyonya or Baba, let award-winning kebaya designer Baba Raymond Wong work his magic and dress you up. Prices start from just $5 for hairstyling to $45 for a full makeover, which includes attire rental as well as hairstyling and makeup services.
This makeover will have you looking and feeling the part as you stroll down Armenian Street – even if it’s just for a day. With batik shirts, sarong kebaya, and accessories options for both adults and children, it’s a fun way to get the whole fam in on the experience. Make sure to head down early, as there are limited outfits on a first-come-first-served basis.
Star Makeover with Baba Raymond Wong
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: 5pm-10pm
Venue: Peranakan Museum, Level 1
Admire an art installation inspired by the Peranakan culture
Image credit: Ashley Yeo
Make sure to check out Enduring Blessings, an art installation by Ashley Yeo, when you’re there. You’ll spot familiar auspicious motifs that are often seen on textiles and furniture, like the dragon and phoenix, symbolising balance, power, and harmony.
Beyond being an Instagram-worthy backdrop, this intricate display is a nod to Peranakan craftsmanship, so take a moment to soak it all in. Swing by past sundown to see it get illuminated too, which is a whole other level of beauty.
“Enduring Blessings” by Ashley Yeo
Date: 14th-31st March 2025
Time: All-day
Taste Peranakan dishes & shop unique merchandise
Image adapted from: National Heritage Board, Candlenut Singapore
You’ll also get the chance to connect with local Peranakan communities and have a closer look at their culture at the Peranakan Pasar. Taste classic dishes and shop unique wares, clothing, and merchandise for a piece of Peranakan heritage to take home.
Some vendors to look out for include Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, and Think Batik, a local brand that nails the balance between comfort and style with their batik wear.
Just a heads up – only cashless payments at the stores.
Peranakan Pasar
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: 5pm-10pm
Catch a fashion show & look forward to celebrity appearances
Image credit: National Heritage Board
It’s not every day that you get to see traditional Peranakan clothing, known for being colourful, vibrant, and full of meticulous embellishments. Courtesy of the Armenian Street Party, you’ll score a front-row view at an exclusive kebaya fashion showcase – and it’s completely free.
Get an up-close look at all the stunning designs and even spot some celebrity appearances by the cast of Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story, Mediacorp’s latest drama that highlights the heritage of the Peranakans. Chantalle Ng, Tyler Ten, Jesseca Liu, and Dawn Yeoh will be gracing the event.
In the Mood for Kebaya: Fashion Show with The Peranakan Association Singapore & Friends
Date: 15th March 2025
Time: 7pm
Meet the stars of Emerald Hill
Image credit: Mediacorp TV Singapore Ptd Ltd
For the uninitiated, Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story is the highly anticipated follow-up to the iconic 2008 series The Little Nyonya, and it’s finally here. Meet the cast of this brand-new drama, take part in interactive activities, and of course, don’t forget to snap a few pics to capture the moment.
Here’s a breakdown of celebs who will be participating in the meet and greet:
- 14th March: Zhang Zetong, Tasha Low, Nick Teo, Priscelia Chan, Juin Teh, Zhu Zeliang
- 15th March: Chantalle Ng, Jesseca Liu, Dawn Yeoh, Tyler Ten, Zhu Zeliang
- 16th March: Romeo Tan, Sheila Sim, Jernelle Oh, Gini Chang, Zhu Zeliang
Stars of the Screen: Emerald Hill Takeover
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: 5pm-10pm
Venue: Peranakan Museum, Level 1, Ixora Room
Watch performances under the stars
Image credit: Dick Lee
The performances are free and happen at different times throughout the evening, so you can swing by whenever you like. This includes a highly anticipated performance by beloved local singer and songwriter, Dick Lee, at 8pm on 15th March.
Image credit: National Heritage Board
Keep an eye out for other acts including Peranakan performing groups, Peranakan Sayang and Gunong Sayang Association, and Rhythms Aesthetic Society, who will dazzle you with the graceful Peacock Dance – sure to keep you grooving all night long.
Party like a Peranakan Star
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: From 6pm
Browse titles about Peranakan culture
Check out a lineup of books inspired by this year’s theme, Peranakan Stars. Whether you want to relive childhood memories with stories of Peranakan culture or find a legit recipe to impress your grandma, there’s something for everyone.
Peranakan Stars: Literary Showcase
Date: 14th-31st March 2025
Time: 10am-7pm
Venue: Peranakan Museum, Level 1
Interactive activities for the kiddos
Image credit: National Heritage Board
From designing their own board game to putting on a puppet show, there’s plenty to keep little hands busy. This 2-museum activity trail takes them through the Peranakan Museum and Asian Civilisations Museum, where they will uncover interesting artefacts along the way. Supplies are limited, so head down early to avoid disappointment.
The activities are suitable for ages 7 and up – just grab a museum admission ticket to join in the fun.
Curious and Wonderful Activity Trail
Date: 14th-31st March 2025
Time: 10am-7pm
Venue: Peranakan Museum, Level 1
Come for the culture, stay for the fun
From exciting activities to mouth-watering food and lively performances, there’s plenty to see, do, and makan at the Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars event. So gather your friends and family, dress the part, and get ready for a weekend filled with culture and of course, lots of fun.
Find out more about Armenian Street Party: Peranakan Stars
Date: 14th-16th March 2025
Time: 5pm-10pm
Address: 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
This post was brought to you by the National Heritage Board.
Cover image adapted from: National Heritage Board