Bugis Town gashapon & free events 2023

Bugis is one of those areas that youths frequent as a hip and trendy hangout, but it never really loses its style even if we’re entering our adulting era. It’s a big plus that Bugis Town is conveniently located in Central Singapore, and connects you to the 3 different shopping and dining hotspots all at once: Bugis Junction, Bugis+, and Bugis Street.

For those who think that they’ve seen all that Bugis Town has to offer, think again. From now till 17th September 2023, there’ll be a series of free events catered to all interests. Think Studio Ghibli exhibits, art showcases with jazzed up sneakers and hand poke tattoo booths, and a mini race car tournament by 5RC to get you into the F1 hype.

You won’t leave empty-handed as there’ll be a gashapon machine doling out sure-win prizes. Here are the details:

Gashapon machine with sure-win prizes

You know those gashapon machines that you see right by your HDB mini marts? Imagine those but mega-sized. And no, you won’t be winning semi-useless knick-knacks like keychains here. 

Within the gashapon capsules are vouchers for brands within Bugis Town like M.A.C, Kiehl’s, MUJI, and even tickets and special VIP packages for Golden Village and the Stranger Things: The Encounter themed rooms.

To qualify for the gashapon machine which is located at Bugis+, you’ll have to spend a minimum of $50 in a single receipt at Bugis Junction or Bugis+ between 2nd-17th Sep. 

Scan your receipt on the CapitaStar app for a gashapon chance.

Each $50 spent in a single receipt will grant you 1 gashapon voucher, and each shopper is allowed to redeem up to 3 vouchers per mall across the promo duration. The gashapon vouchers are limited to 500 redemptions per day, so head down quickly if you wanna snag the sure-win goodies before they’re all gone.

Artsy showcases include Studio Ghibli displays & DIY Vans event

Fans of all things artsy will have no shortage of events to look forward to at Bugis Town. Head to Bugis+ where you can catch Studio Ghibli-themed installation at the Level 2 Atrium. Get up close and personal with life-size inflatables showcasing characters like the Catbus from My Neighbour Totoro, as well as Totoro himself.

There are also 3-dimensional photo walls depicting iconic Studio Ghibli movie scenes, including that of Ponyo on the Cliff, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle.

On top of just admiring the displays, you can also take part in a Uniqlo x Studio Ghibli “stamp rally” that runs from now till 14th September. Collect 6 different Ghibli character stamps scattered all around the mall, and you’ll get to redeem a limited edition Studio Ghibli poster only for Uniqlo App members, while stocks last. 

Image adapted from: @poke_ahontas & @thirdeye.toothgems.sg via Instagram

Make sure to swing by Bugis Junction on 16th September for a live art experience with plenty to do. Held at the Vans store (#02-11A), the Art Attack! event will have highlights including a DJ booth, kombucha drinks by Boujee Botanicals, and booths by Poke-Ahontas and Third Eye Tooth Gems – where you can get hand poke tattoos and bling for your teeth, respectively.

Image credit: @vans.sg via Instagram

Of course, the Vans venue is no coincidence. The main attraction will be none other than an exhibition of one-of-a-kind Vans sneaker designs. If taking in all this art around you makes your creative juices flow, you’ll be glad to know that the first 25 people to enter the event will be gifted an exclusive Vans tote bag which you can customise at their DIY space.

While the event is free and open to the public, it’s also limited to a maximum of 80 attendees so come early to secure a spot. 

Mini racing events & pop-ups to spice up your shopping trip

Those heading to Bugis Junction to do some shopping can make time for some special events and pop-ups. If you’ve always considered yourself a skilled Remote Control driver, make sure to sign up for the GT Touring Race Event. Registration costs $30, and each participant will receive 2 sets of batteries and a set of competition tires for their own mini race car prior to the event.

The tournament kicks off on 9th-10th September, but members of the public can partake in the Open Track sessions from 2nd-8th September for free. Just swing by the race track at Bugis Junction’s Malay Street Atrium.

Whether you’re in the market for some thoughtful gifts or as a lil treat for yourself, keep an eye out for Bugis Junction’s various pop-ups this month. 

All the way from now till 17th September, Bugis Junction’s Hylam Street atrium will be hosting an F1 merch pop-up where you can pick up motorsport-themed swag, and even themed jewellery with motifs of race tracks, flags, and pendants representing your favourite driver’s number.

Swing by Bugis Town for lots of activities & shopping rewards

For the rest of September, you’ve now got a go-to boredom buster. Given the extensive slew of events happening at Bugis Town, there’ll be something that warrants a visit whether you’re having a family outing, casual date, or just a solo adventure. 

To give you all the more reason to head down, there are also shopping rewards at the various malls. Simply spend $120 or $100 from Mondays to Fridays at selected beauty and fashion stores at Bugis Junction or Bugis+ respectively, and you’ll receive a $10 eCapitaVoucher to offset future shopping sprees.

While you’re on the CapitaStar app, make sure to take advantage of the exclusive e-Vouchers that will grant up to $50 off purchases within Bugis Town. These are available for beauty services, dining, and even IT stores.

From a sure-win gashapon machine to unique art installations and an exhilarating mini racing tournament, you’re bound to have a good time. Clear your schedules and hop over to Bugis Town because there’s gonna be a tonne to get up to this September.

Find out more about the Bugis Town events

This post was brought to you by CapitaLand Bugis Town.
Photography by Shawn Loh.