PUBLISHED January 10th, 2025 03:36 am
January 2025 kicks off with an exciting lineup of events celebrating art, music, culture, and community across Singapore. While Singapore Art Week (SAW) takes center stage with numerous exhibitions and performances, the month also offers a diverse range of activities, from culinary showcases and family-friendly gatherings to music festivals and street culture events. Whether you’re drawn to contemporary art, live music, or immersive experiences, this carefully curated list highlights the best things to do in Singapore this month.
RASA’s Official Opening
RASA, a new creative community space at Republic Plaza, opens on 10 January 2025. Conceived as a platform for collective experiences through a young Southeast Asian perspective, RASA – meaning “essence” in Sanskrit – fosters creativity, connection, and collaboration between artists and communities. Designed by Berlin’s Studio Karhard of Berghain fame, RASA features two spaces: Hall, a cocktail lounge with Southeast Asian-inspired drinks like the Cantaloop Rush and Lapsang Souchong Negroni, and Floor, an intimate music enclave.
The opening weekend collaborates with Taiwan’s Organik Festival, spotlighting DJs Diskonnected, Toumingren, and local talents–Strange Weather’s A’alely and Sivillian Affair’s Sivanesh. The festivities continue the following weekend (17–19 January) with performances by JakoJako, the first woman of Asian descent to join Berghain’s roster, and residents nd_baumecker and Barker. Adding to the experience, RASA serves artisanal gelato, including plant-based options, alongside its genre-spanning music programming.
M1 Singapore Fringe Festival
The M1 Singapore Fringe Festival 2025 returns from 8 to 19 January with a compelling theme of “displacement,” bringing together seven works that explore the impact of forced movement on identity, culture, and community. Among the highlights is The Troupe by Birds Migrant Theatre, a poignant performance created and performed by migrant workers from Indonesia and Bangladesh alongside Singaporean actors. This heartfelt production delves into the realities of war, refugee crises, and the resilience of displaced communities.
Other captivating performances include Eclipse by The Necessary Stage, exploring generational trauma, and I Am Seaweed by Mm and Something Happens Here, an interactive multimedia show that offers a space for respite amidst today’s demanding society. Tickets start at $16. Visit M1 Singapore Fringe Festival’s website for more details.
Mandala Club x Belmond: A Taste of Italy
From 14 January to 15 February 2025, the Mandala Club hosts MANDALA CLUB x BELMOND: A Taste of Italy, a month-long Italian culinary residency showcasing the artistry of chefs from four iconic Belmond properties. Guests will indulge in meticulously crafted dining experiences inspired by the refined Italian art of villeggiatura, or embracing endless summers.
Each week, a new Michelin-starred chef will present menus highlighting regional ingredients and culinary traditions. The lineup includes Chef Vania Ghedini from Oro in Venice, Chef Roberto Toro from Otto Geleng in Sicily, Chef Daniele Sera from Tuscany’s Castello di Casole, and Chef Armando Aristarco from Amalfi’s Ristorante Belvedere. Reservations open on 11 December 2024. Visit mandala.club/belmond for more details.
Mandala Club x ArtBeyond present FISH56Octagon
Mandala Club teams up with ArtBeyond for Fish56Octagon, a night of high-energy beats and performances on 16 January 2025. Kick off the evening with opening sets by Raaj and David Carollo, before iconic DJ FISH56 takes the stage with his genre-defying music. Known for his vibrant social media presence and electrifying live performances at festivals like Glastonbury, Creamfields, and Boomtown, FISH56 brings his unique sound to Singapore for an unforgettable night.
From deep house to experimental electronica, his ability to span diverse genres guarantees an immersive musical journey. Whether you’re a dancefloor regular or just looking for a great vibe, Fish56Octagon promises a night of creative energy and nonstop movement. Tickets available at Mandala Club.
Singapore Art Museum at Singapore Art Week 2025
From 17 to 26 January 2025, the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) transforms Tanjong Pagar Distripark into a hub of creativity and engagement as part of Singapore Art Week 2025. Admission is free, offering access to an impressive lineup of activities, including live music, exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours.
Highlights include Seeing Forest by Robert Zhao Renhui, a thought-provoking exhibition exploring Singapore’s secondary forests and their evolving ecosystems. Dive into Yee I-Lann’s Mansau-Ansau, showcasing experimental weaves and creative storytelling, or experience Pratchaya Phinthong’s No Patents on Ideas, which examines the cultural and economic systems shaping modern life. Visitors can also enjoy Sonic Sessions, Makers’ Markets, and interactive workshops.
For more details, visit bit.ly/SAWatSAM2025.
Culture Cartel 2025: ICONS Uprising
From 17 to 19 January 2025, Culture Cartel returns with its fifth edition, ICONS Uprising, at Singapore EXPO Hall 5. Asia’s leading street culture convention promises an expansive celebration of art, fashion, music, tattoo, and toys across a sprawling 100,000 sq ft space. With over 250 brands and artists, attendees can expect immersive exhibitions, exclusive masterclasses, panel discussions, and limited-edition drops.
Highlights include global collaborations, first-time launches, and opportunities to meet icons shaping the future of street culture. Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, the event cements Singapore as Asia’s hub for creativity and innovation in street culture. Don’t miss this vibrant showcase of global talent and creative expression. Tickets and details at culturecartel.com.
Light to Night Singapore 2025
Light to Night 2025 transforms Singapore’s Civic District from 17 January to 6 February with over 70 artworks and programmes exploring multifaceted identities under the theme “Do You See Me?”. Highlights include Art Skins on Monuments, featuring projection mappings on iconic landmarks by local and regional artists, and Travelling Through the Tropical Rainforest by Han Sai Por, showcasing six large-scale sculptures on the Padang.
Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive installations like Claire Teo’s Through the Looking Glass, and enjoy performances, workshops, and food at the Art X Social: Festival Street. As part of Singapore Art Week and the National Gallery’s 10th anniversary, this free event celebrates diversity through art. Visit lighttonight.sg for details.
The Island Collective Presents: The Debut Party
On 18 January 2025, The Island Collective launches its signature live music and art series at Brass Lion Distillery. Designed for partygoers seeking a more meaningful night out, these exclusive events combine live performances, an art auction, and a curated DJ set for a limited audience of 100.
Expect eclectic sounds spanning genres like R&B, funk, Afrobeats, and experimental indie, with all performers kept secret until they take the stage. Guests can also explore art from local and regional creatives, available exclusively for auction.
With its unique blend of music, art, and thoughtfully chosen venues, The Island Collective aims to redefine nightlife. Tickets are limited—visit islandcollective.co for more details.
Artbox Everyday 2025
ARTBOX 2025 makes its much-anticipated return with ARTBOX EVERYDAY at Singapore Expo Hall 4 from 17–19 January and 24–26 January. Featuring over 600 vendors from Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, this expanded edition transforms a 108,000 sq ft space into a vibrant showcase of art, retail, and food.
Visitors can explore unique installations like the Hero Structure, designed to evoke Singapore’s heartland estates, and enjoy live performances, interactive activities, and an immersive arcade by The Arcade People. For the first time, ARTBOX introduces Trade Day to foster B2B collaborations and ARTBOX Express, a mobile gallery bus service.
With exciting events like art auctions, open mic sessions, and giveaways, ARTBOX promises a dynamic experience for all. Tickets at artbox.sg.
Soul Collective x Thugshop Present Finca Amour
On 18 January 2025, Berlin’s underground vibes take over Tuff Club as Soul Collective brings the duo Finca Amour to Singapore. Comprised of Mimi Love and Franca, Finca Amour fuses dreamy finesse with sharp precision, creating dynamic sets that tell captivating sonic stories. With roots in legendary venues like Bar 25 and Kater Blau, the duo’s chemistry shines in every performance, from their debut in the Netherlands to unforgettable sets at Fusion Festival.
Joining them is Amber H, whose melodic and hypnotic sets promise an enchanting warm-up. Known for curating intimate, world-class experiences, Soul Collective ensures an unforgettable night of music, connection, and freedom. Tickets are limited and can be purchased via Eventbrite—don’t miss this one-night-only event.
Thugshop Presents: Daniel Avery and Simon Doty
On 18 January 2025, Thugshop brings a night of dynamic music to Tuff Club, headlined by UK techno visionary Daniel Avery. Making his Singapore debut, Avery’s genre-defying sets blend techno, house, IDM, and ambient elements, featuring standout tracks like Drone Logic and Lone Swordsman. His atmospheric tones and cerebral style promise an immersive dancefloor journey.
Upstairs, Simon Doty from Anjunadeep takes over with his signature mix of evocative melodies and driving basslines, honed at iconic venues like Brooklyn Mirage and fabric. Supporting acts TMDDJ and Boon Shao round out the night’s lineup, ensuring a seamless flow of rhythm and energy.
Limited tickets available now via Eventbrite.
SlowJamz Sunday at AT Feast by GrooveTop
Unwind with SlowJamz Sunday on 19 January 2025 at the serene AT Feast, Dempsey Road, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a soulful mix of R&B, Funk, and Neo-Soul with a special reunion of Aurora, RAAJ, and Ya5th from A Phat Cat Collective.
Bring the whole family for a day of music, comfort food, and arts & crafts sessions by b_together until 6pm. Even your furry friends are welcome in the outdoor areas! With no table reservations, arrive early to secure your spot—rain or shine, the event is on.
Advance tickets at $15, $20 at the door, and kids under 16 enter free. Follow @groovetop on Instagram for updates.
Kelab Jannah Presents: DJ Fart in the Club Live in Singapore
On 24 January 2025, Kelab Jannah kicks off its first event of the year at MDLR, blending experimental sounds and immersive vibes. Headlining is Berlin-based DJ Fart in the Club, renowned for her eclectic sets that intertwine deep, light-hearted, and genre-blurring elements. Supporting acts include ITEK, an experimental electronic artist, and newcomer Jeanut, making their debut.
As the unofficial afterparty for Singapore Art Week, the event promises an unforgettable night of music and artistry. Tickets range from $35–$45 and are available on Eventbrite. Join the party from 10 PM to 3 AM for an evening of sonic exploration and energy.
Aliwal Urban Arts Festival (AUAF) 2025
The Aliwal Urban Arts Festival (AUAF) returns on 25 January 2025, closing Singapore Art Week with a dynamic celebration of street culture. Held at the Aliwal Arts Centre and Aliwal Carpark, this year’s highlights include TAILORED: Bore & Stroke, an exhibition exploring the intersection of automotive customisation and urban art, with works by artists like TraseOne and Mad Rat Inc.. Visitors can try their hand at spray painting with RSCLS or join a $5 walking tour uncovering Kampong Gelam’s street art.
Expect skateboarding sessions, an art market, live music by Red Kite Music, and dance showcases curated by Darren Toh. With free and ticketed programmes, AUAF 2025 promises an engaging day for all. More details at artshouselimited.sg/aac-auaf-2025.