October is like that quirky kid in school. She’s awkward, quiet, and hardly belongs anywhere. On the calendar, this month’s the quiet prelude to the year end holidays. With August and September roaring with activity from the SG50 celebrations and the General Elections, it’s hard to imagine how that can be topped – but it can.
Most of us may have been stripped of our Children’s Day privileges, and the trick-or-treat culture hasn’t found its way to our HDB blocks yet. But hey, we’re not gonna just stay in and watch TV.
To start the last quarter of 2015 with a bang, here’s 20 new and fun things you can do!
The iconic USS Halloween Horror Nights return for it’s 5th cycle! This year, evil descends as the looming lunar eclipse, also known as the blood moon, marks the start of Hell on Earth.
Earlier on, we headed down for their media preview and what we can say is, the scare zones are worth every penny you’re paying for. Unlike previous editions, this year’s halloween horror night event doesn’t just tap on old urban legends or international ghost stories. Rather, it recreates true recounts and experiences – such as spirits that linger at night around MRT stations and tormented souls seeking for revenge when night falls within HDB areas.
Bring a friend who stays near you so the train ride home wouldn’t get too creepy.
Date: 2 – 31 Oct
Time: 7:30 PM – 12:30 AM/1:30 AM
Tickets: $50 – $68
Venue: Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway
Website
Although the crazed GSS is over, the lookout for cheap stuff definitely isn’t. Check out the Great Singapore Garage Sale, where you can score pre-loved apparels at bargain prices, and peruse through all sorts of knick-knacks like toys, ornaments and even electronic gadgets. If you’re lucky, you may even find exclusive vintage hand-me-downs!
If you’re a sucker for thrifting, here’re some second-hand shops you can explore all year round.
Date: 24 October
Time: 11 AM – 5 PM
Venue: Unused Carpark At Tampines Industrial Crescent (near IKEA Tampines)
Back for its 11th year in the running, enjoy fine-dining for much less during restaurant week 2015. With over 100 participating restaurants, there is no better time to go on a gourmet food trail and savour a full 3-course meal for less than $30. When and where else can you find a good deal like that?!
Read more about our experience here. Due to the high demands, you can only dine at participating restaurants with advanced reservations. Fastest fingers first!
Date: 24 Oct-1 Nov
Website
One of the most celebrated performing troupe in the world, Cirque du Soleil returns to Singapore this month for a theatrical extravaganza. In this show titled Totem, it explores the evolution of humanity – from an amphibious stage to one that has burning desires to take flight. With a combination of 46 performers hailing from 17 countries, this show pledges series after series of jaw-dropping and logic-defying acrobatic acts.
Date: 28 October – 22 November
Tickets: $98-328 via Sistic
Venue: Under the Big Top, next to Marina Bay Sands
Website
Featuring an all Japanese cast, Kafka on the Shore is a theatrical adaptation of the book by the same name written by one of Japan’s top writers Haruki Murakami. Set in modern-day Japan, this story follows 15-year old Kafka who ran away from home to escape a curse. In his adventures, he runs into a series of interesting characters, who blur the line between reality, myths and dreams.
If you’re a big fan of author Murakami himself, this play is a must-watch by every mean. Do note that this show will be performed in Japanese, with English subtitles present.
Date: 30 October – 1 November
Tickets: $48-118 via Sistic
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Website
Returning for its 6th show, get ready to have your funny bone tickled real hard as Kings and Queens of Comedy Asia come back more hilarious than ever this time. With regional and international acts by Harith Iskander and Gina Yashere, remember to bring the tissues along because there’s a chance you might laugh till you cry.
While you’re at that, see our very own Kumar grace the stage with his liberal honesty and provocative jokes. Mature content is involved so all patrons have to be above 18 years old!
Date: 23-24 October
Time: 9 PM
Tickets: $38-98 via Sistic
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Website
Remember when you had to analyse overtly simple sentences like “the curtains were blue” back in Literature classes? And how you’d end up with a 10-page explanation of why the author chose ‘blue’? If that’s your kind of thing, The Blue of Distance is Literature class on steroids.
By connecting the idea of longing to the colour blue, this exhibition expresses a sombre notion through the muted paintings and use of white space. The exhibits have no texts or captions, so your interpretation of the artworks is projected from your own train of thought and experiences.
Date: Till 25 October
Tickets: Free admission
Venue: Fost Gallery, #01-02 Gillman Barracks, 1 Lock Road, S108932
Website
We’re all familiar with Singlish, but have you heard of Chinglish? This bilingual play tells the story of an American businessman’s adventures as he ventures to China for a lucrative deal. But it’s not all fun and games for Daniel Cavanaugh. While coping with the language barrier, he bumps into various characters – a femme fatale, a corrupted politician and a bunch of incompetent interpreters, all with sly intent.
Starring our homegrown theatre talents Adrian Pang and Oon Shu An, this local act is described to be ‘one of the funniest plays in memory’ by the Chicago Sun-Times.
Date: 9-25 October
Tickets: $25-70 via Sistic
Venue: Drama Centre Theatre, National Library Building
Website
Back for the last time this year, the Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market is Singapore’s first farmers’ market. This quarterly event celebrates local produce in the serene Kranji Countryside, where patrons can expect organic vegetables, fresh dairy and poultry alongside wholesome homemade goods like jars of jams and honey.
Local cafes and eateries will be there too, selling light bites and snacks to keep your tummy happy while you soak in the ambience and show support to the humble trade of local farming.
Date: 31 October – 1 November
Time: 2 PM – 7 PM
Venue: 240 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718898
Website
If you’re a party goer on Saturday nights but still wish to celebrate Halloween, have the best of both worlds at The Haunted Pavilion. This halloween-themed event has 2 major segments – the feast of screams and high spirits party. Start the night by enjoying a fashion a parade and fire show while indulging in the free flow bar and BBQ food.
Get your freak on as you dance the night away to international DJs and ground-breaking music all the way till 3am. No costumes? No worries. The horror make-up studio is ready to deck you to the nines with an ‘express makeover’.
Date: 31st October – 1st November
Time: 7 PM – 10 PM (Feasts of Screams) 10 PM -3 AM (High Spirits Party)
Tickets: $188 – $376 Venue: Pavilion by the Sea (Adjacent to Adventure Cove Waterpark )
Website
Started by a group of film enthusiasts, Reelak wants to expose Singaporeans to the joy of open-air movie screening. Why choose to be at a boring ol’ cinema when you can enjoy a beer while swinging on a hammock?
For one night only, catch award winning feature film Footnote at Lepark, a secret hangout atop People’s Park Complex. Expose yourself to this novel way of film-watching!
Date: 3rd October
Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
Tickets: $25 – $1000
Venue: Lepark, 1 Park Road Level 6 People’s Park Complex, Singapore 059108
Website
While Singapore is small, there are plenty of places left unexplored. Rediscover this primary school excursion spot and surprising attractions that are off the beaten track. The Old Hill Street Police Station’s colourful windows serve as a perfect backdrop for an #OOTD shot. To amp up the tourist experience, hop on the river boat rides and admire the skyline in a new light.
From exploring the pristine Victoria Concert Hall to chilling by the river at Coffeemin, here’s a whole list of things you can do by the river.
Now that it’s off-peak season, there’s no better time to enjoy Sydney. Famed for her magnificent weather, scenic views and a laidback culture, Sydney’s food scene is just as noteworthy. Be swept away by the restaurants, cafes and bars in this spectacular city and what each one has to offer, like the 10-hour cooked Moorish beef rib at Gowings Bar and Grill.
Tempted? Read our full guide here.
Are you a fan of artisanal ice cream? If so, you gotta take a load of this one. Take your taste buds on a wild ride as you go around the island tasting local snacks and fare in cold, luscious scoops. Enjoy a creamy serving of Kaya Toast at Ice Cream Chefs, or Teh Tarik at Island Creamery to cool yourself down in this hot and hazy climate.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head down to Tom’s Palette for a truly unique frozen experience. If it’s your lucky day, the seasonal soya sauce flavor may just be available!. As odd as it sounds, many find it refreshing and interesting, so give it a chance to pleasantly surprise you.
Here’s a list of uniquely Singaporean Ice Cream flavours you’ll never find anywhere else.
If you’re one who prefers action and lots of movement, you got to be a part of the first ever New Balance Run On 2015. This beginner 5 km marathon is perfect for your virgin marathon experience without throwing yourself into the heat of competition. If you’re a seasoned runner, complete an additional kilometre, and score an exclusive medal to show off to your fellow runners.
Unlike “standard” marathons, this event promises great entertainment through and through. After tiring race, celebrate your feat with great food and craft beers alonside local acts A/K/A Attagirl!, Obedient Wives Club and Charlie Lim!
Date: 24th October
Time: 5:00 PM
Tickets: $30 – $40
Venue: Gardens By The Bay East
Website
Nothing spells sophistication like a good glass of wine. The Singapore Wine Fiesta returns for the 8th year and unlike past editions, this year’s fiesta celebrates all things Singaporean, including its food and music. Expect majestic fare by local chefs and entertainment by local artists such as Weish and Vandetta.
With a showcase of close to 350 wines from vineyards around the world, you’re bound to find one that suits your palate. Be sure to control yourself and not go overboard with the wine-sampling. You still want to leave the place sober!
Date:
22 Oct, Thu : 6.30pm – 11pm
23 Oct, Fri : 4pm – 10pm
24 Oct, Sat : 12pm – 10pm
25 Oct, Sun : 12pm – 9pm
Tickets: $50 – $268 via sistic
Venue: Clifford Square at the Fullerton House
Website
There are people who love good, touching movies that tug at our heartstrings, and then there’re B grade movie seekers who look for a good laugh in ridiculous plots and corny cliches. If you belong to the latter, the Fail Film Festival is made for you. Join like-minded people in celebrating films done so badly that they’ll make you laugh till your stomach hurts!
A movie experience is largely dependent on the cinema you go to. But of course, something this hipster can only happen at The Projector. Here’s a guide on Singapore’s most ulu cinema.
Date: 17 – 24 October
Time: 9:30 PM
Venue: The Projector 6001 Beach Road, Golden Mile Tower #05-00, Singapore 199589
Website
Whether it’s catching world class acts or dropping down with the beat yourself, da:ns festival 2015 is a dance extravaganza to be part of this year. Apart from just sitting amongst the crowd and watching skilled dancers do their thing, you too can share the spotlight! One of the event highlights, What’s Your Move, engages the audience in a mass dance. With the city skyline as your backdrop, master various dance genres including K-pop and Bollywood! Bring your friends and dancing shoes and party the night away.
If you still aren’t convinced, we have all of 10 reasons why you shouldn’t miss this.
Date: 9 – 18 October
Time: 7:30 PM onwards, depending on show and activity
Venue: Esplanade
Website
It is no secret that Singapore loves Hello Kitty. Remember the time when queues went on for days for the McDonald’s collectables? If you’re a fan, consider this a dream come true.
For the first time outside of Hong Kong, the Hello Kitty Go Around! mini theme park is coming to Singapore! Immerse yourself into the animated world of Hello Kitty, grab photo opportunities with Hello Kitty and her friends, or relive your childhood at the carnival game kiosks and the Merry-Go-Round.
Date: 16 October – 10 November
Time: 10 AM to 8 PM
Tickets: : $48.15 – $58.85 via sistic
Venue: The Coliseum™, Hard Rock Hotel® Singapore Resorts World™ Sentosa
Website
Nightscape 2050 is a travelling exhibition that covers Berlin, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore. Exploring lights and how they interact with people and society, this exhibition promises to enhance your senses and open your eyes to how an intangible entity impacts the way you interpret information.
You cannot leave the exhibition without viewing ‘Evolution of Singapore’s Nightscape – 1800 to 2050’, a visual display of critical events in Singapore’s history that shaped the evolution of lighting and the city. From past to present, peek into the future as lighting specialists illustrate how Singapore might look like come 2050.
Date: 24 October – 21 November
Time: 9 AM – 9 PM
Venue: National Design Centre
Whenever we head out, it has become a ritual to take an #OOTD. In true instagrammer style, the perfect photo comprises of a vogue pose, an on-point expression and most importantly, the complementing backdrops. It’s often a pain to suss out photogenic locations for the perfect shot, but fret not, we’ve done the homework for you.
From a regular tennis court to a Tau Sar Piah shop along Balestier Road, your inner hipster will approve of these places.
Whether it’s getting in touch with international acts and arts, or showing some love to local initiatives, the list of new and fun things to do in October has a fair bit of indoor entertainment for those who can’t stand the weather. And for the rest of you who are prepared to venture outdoors, have your N95 masks ready!
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