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Singapore’s dynamic bar scene gains a compelling new player with the debut of Pop City X Pony, a Japanese-inspired cocktail lounge replacing the beloved rum bar, Sugarhall. A collaboration between acclaimed hospitality group Jigger & Pony and House of Suntory, this elevated concept blends seamless mixology with vibrant Japanese aesthetics, offering patrons an immersive journey through the nation’s contemporary style and seasonal nuance.

Following Sugarhall’s farewell toast on July 26, the Cecil Street location has been meticulously transformed into a sophisticated yet playful speakeasy. Pop City X Pony officially invites guests to explore its multi-zoned, detail-oriented space, elevating the brand’s reputation for balanced, deceptively simple cocktails within the heart of the Central Business District.

Finding the Neon-Lit Sanctuary

Regulars of the former establishment will recognize the location, but first-timers require a bit of navigational savvy. To locate Pop City X Pony, visitors must take the back route of Barrel: Story of Hibiki, tracing a narrow back alley to spot the unmistakable neon-pink signboard. An unmarked black door signals the entrance to the intimate, second-floor venue.

Design is a core element of the experience. The interior pays homage to Japanese cultural hallmarks, visible in the textured kimono fabric adorning lounge seating and the ceiling and walls lined with the iconic ichimatsu (checkerboard) pattern. The space is subtlety divided into four experiential zones. The main bar area is anchored by an intricately hand-stitched byōbu (folding screen), placing patrons close to the mixology action. For larger groups, the Tasting Commons and After Hours Salon offer flexible seating configurations, while those seeking exclusivity can reserve Bar Mixtape, a separate, cozy nook featuring a private mini bar, rare Hibiki whiskies, and vintage audio equipment.

Exploring the Menu: Pop, City, and Seasons

Consistency in quality remains a hallmark of the Jigger & Pony brand, echoing the success of sister venues like Live Twice and Gibson. The 18-drink menu at Pop City X Pony is divided into three distinctive categories, each exploring a facet of modern Japan.

The “POP” section draws inspiration from Japanese popular culture and music. A standout is the HØJ1CHA €SPR€$$Ø MART1N1 ($25), a smoky, roasted twist on a classic, featuring hojicha, coffee, mezcal, and finished with raspberry powder. This section also offers refreshing updates, including a zestier take on the yuzu whisky sour ($27) and a fruity, melon-forward sake martini ($24).

The “CITY” category focuses on Japanese fashion and modern aesthetics. The Matcha Ramos Fizz ($27) is a luxurious fusion of nostalgic cream soda and matcha latte, topped with a whisky-infused foam. For patrons seeking savory intensity, the Harajuku Mary ($27) delivers umami depth with vodka, tomato, lemon, celery bitters, and surprising accents of wasabi, tonkotsu, and dashi.

However, the bar’s unequivocal highlight is its namesake cocktail, the Pop City Sour ($26). This supremely palatable whisky sour incorporates subtle savory notes from purple shiso and sour plum, balanced by a rich, frothy egg white layer, resulting in a dangerously “crushable” drink.

Finally, the “Seasons In Motion” menu offers monthly rotating creations inspired by Japan’s microseasons. A current offering, the Fuji Apple & Oyster Leaf Fizz ($26), expertly blends the sweetness of Fuji apple with the faint, oceanic notes provided by the oyster leaf—a unique and complex experience best enjoyed alongside the parmesan chip garnish.

Thoughtful Bites and Logistics

The culinary selection is designed to complement the complex cocktails. Complimentary banana chips are served upon arrival, while patrons can order sharing plates laced with shio kombu, such as truffle edamame ($15) and wagyu fat fries ($15). Heartier izakaya staples include chicken karaage ($18) and a savory pork katsu sando ($18) with shiso coleslaw, or a substantial bowl of tonkatsu ramen ($18).

Pop City X Pony operates Monday to Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to midnight at 19 Cecil St, Level 2, Singapore 049704. An attractive happy hour runs daily from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring drinks starting at $14 and cocktails from $15. Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot at this sleek new destination.

After the closure of popular rum bar Sugarhall in July, parent company Jigger & Pony, in collaboration with House of Suntory, has unveiled its highly anticipated successor: Pop City X Pony. Situated in the former speakeasy space on Cecil Street, this new cocktail bar seamlessly blends the expertise of Jigger & Pony’s celebrated mixology with a deep dive into modern and traditional Japanese culture, offering patrons an immersive, multifaceted drinking and dining experience.

Finding the Hidden Entrance

The establishment takes over the second floor of 19 Cecil Street, promising an engaging journey even before the first sip. Regulars familiar with the previous venue will navigate easily, but newcomers should look for the subtle cues. Access requires walking around the back of the ground-floor establishment, Barrel: Story of Hibiki, into a narrow back alley. A neon-pink sign marks the spot, leading guests upstairs to an unmarked black door—a fittingly discreet entry for what feels like a hidden gem.

Stepping inside reveals a meticulous design that pays homage to Japanese aesthetics. Design aficionados will appreciate details like the textured kimono fabric used on seating, and walls and ceilings decorated with the iconic ichimatsu (checkerboard) pattern. The space is cleverly divided into four distinct zones, subtly shifting the atmosphere depending on where guests settle.

The central bar counter offers an intimate view of the mixologists at work, framed by an intricate, hand-stitched byōbu (Japanese folding screen). For larger gatherings, the Tasting Commons and After Hours Salon are equipped with modular furniture, allowing for flexible group seating. Adding to the exclusivity is Bar Mixtape, a secluded ‘bar within a bar’ section featuring its own mini-bar, rare Hibiki whiskies, and a nostalgic listening corner furnished with CD players and records, available for private bookings.

Japan-Inspired Cocktails: Pop, City, and Seasons

Consistent with the Jigger & Pony brand—known for deceptively simple yet impeccably balanced cocktails—Pop City X Pony’s offerings are sophisticated and focused. The 16-drink menu is organized into three conceptual sections:

• POP: Drawing inspiration from Japanese pop music and culture.
• CITY: Referencing Japanese fashion and metropolitan aesthetics.
• Seasons In Motion: Offering two new creations monthly, inspired by Japan’s intricate microseasons.

Under the ‘POP’ banner, the HØJ1CHA €SPR€$$Ø MART1N1 ($25) reinvents the ubiquitous classic with a smoky, roasted profile derived from hojicha, coffee, and mezcal, finished with a bright dusting of raspberry powder. Other highlights include a zestier take on the Yuzu Whisky Sour ($27) and a fruit-forward Sake Martini ($24).

The ‘CITY’ section presents inventive twists on familiar formats. The Matcha Ramos Fizz ($27) combines the creamy nostalgia of kissaten soda with matcha and a glorious, whisky-infused foam crown. More adventurous palates might opt for the savoury Harajuku Mary ($27), a complex vodka and tomato base lifted with unexpected umami from dashi, tonkotsu, and a kick of wasabi.

The bar’s signature, the dangerously potable Pop City Sour ($26), stands out as an outstanding whisky sour. It incorporates savory elements of purple shiso and sour plum, adding depth and structure beneath a frothy egg-white layer.

Seasonal Exploration and Elevated Bar Bites

The rotational Seasonal In Motion menu promises continual novelty. The Fuji Apple & Oyster Leaf Fizz ($26) is a prime example of its ingenuity, blending honeyed sweetness of Fuji apple with the subtle oceanic notes achieved not by mollusc, but by a remarkably similar-tasting oyster leaf.

The food menu is crafted to complement the cocktails without overshadowing them. Complimentary banana chips are offered, alongside shared plates like Truffle Edamame ($15) and Wagyu Fat Fries ($15), both seasoned with shio kombu. For heartier fare, patrons can enjoy elevated izakaya classics such as Chicken Karaage ($18), Teba-Gyoza ($18), or the substantial Pork Katsu Sando ($18) served with shiso coleslaw, or even a warming bowl of Tonkatsu Ramen ($18).

Pop City X Pony operates Mondays through Saturdays, 5:30 p.m. to midnight, at 19 Cecil St, Level 2, Singapore 049704. Happy hour runs daily from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with attractive deals on drinks starting at $14. Reservations are strongly recommended.

A rising trend among discerning Singaporean consumers emphasizes bespoke, handcrafted items over mass-market decor, transforming personal spaces into narratives of individual style and curated taste. Catering to this demand, Frikin Guds, a newly opened multi-label lifestyle boutique, offers an eclectic array of quirky finds and artisanal products from independent creators across the region. Located in Golden Mile Tower, the shop features carefully selected limited-edition homeware, accessories, and artistic objects, appealing to those seeking charm and character in their living environments.

Redefining Home Decor: Beyond Utility

While readily available furniture and home essentials found in typical retail outlets fulfill practical needs, a noticeable shift in consumer preference prioritizes distinctiveness and narrative. Shoppers are increasingly interested in the provenance and craftsmanship of the items they purchase, viewing each acquisition as an act of self-expression. Frikin Guds addresses this niche, acting as a vibrant hub for unconventional, small-batch goods.

Stepping into the boutique, customers are greeted by a thoughtful, if somewhat chaotic, display of contrasting colors and textures. The curation process focuses on partnering with independent regional labels, ensuring that the inventory possesses a strong sense of individuality and backstory.

Curated Craftsmanship Highlights:

• Sardine (Thailand): Known for vibrant, brightly-hued “homeware and nonsense things,” offering playful yet distinct decorative pieces.
• From Yesterday (Singapore): This homegrown small-batch fragrance brand creates complex scents specifically designed to evoke nostalgic memories.
• Sad Studio (Malaysia): Showcasing a contemporary aesthetic through simple, visually appealing 3D-printed vases and light fixtures.

Beyond these featured labels, the selection extends to include diverse categories such as woven accessories, jewelry, glassware, and reusable tote bags. Many items are rare or one-of-a-kind, underscoring the boutique’s focus on collectible art and design. Given the compact nature of many residences in Singapore, particularly HDB flats, most of the boutique’s offerings are intentionally “fun-sized,” making them ideal for smaller living areas.

Visiting the Boutique

Frikin Guds is situated at Golden Mile Tower, specifically at #08-09A. While the boutique primarily operates on an appointment-only basis to ensure a dedicated browsing experience, it occasionally hosts open studio days for the public. Interested patrons should monitor the boutique’s official Instagram account, @frikin.guds, for announcements regarding these special viewing hours. Recent open studio dates were scheduled for late December, suggesting sporadic viewing opportunities may continue based on demand and calendar.

The boutique’s emergence signifies a broader shift in the Singapore design market, valuing craftsmanship, regional artistry, and personal narrative over standardized home aesthetics. For consumers wishing to infuse their homes with unique character and support independent regional creators, Frikin Guds offers a compelling and colorful alternative to mainstream retail.

Expanding the Local Artisan Scene

The rise of specialized boutiques like Frikin Guds highlights the growing appreciation for artisanal and limited-edition design in Singapore. This trend is mirrored by the success of other niche retail concepts, signaling a maturing design consciousness among local consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing and unique artistic value in their purchasing decisions. As the interior design landscape continues to evolve, these multi-label destinations are poised to become essential resources for those seeking truly personalized living spaces.

Singapore Stages Electro-Luminescent Countdown: CQ @ Clarke Quay unveils “The Next Stage: New Age” celebration featuring live music, a dynamic drone display, and immersive light installations for New Year’s Eve 2025 revellers, complete with free late-night transportation.

Singapore’s renowned entertainment hub, CQ @ Clarke Quay, is adding a high-voltage option to the city-state’s array of New Year’s Eve 2025 countdown events with its signature bash, titled “The Next Stage: New Age.” Targeting partygoers who embrace vibrant, energetic nightlife, the district along the Singapore River will transform into a pulsating carnival of lights and sound on December 31. The festivities promise non-stop music and dancing kicking off at 7 p.m. and continuing late into the night.

Biome Light Installations Set an Electric Scene

Setting the stage for the electrifying countdown are a series of four bespoke biome light installations illuminating the precinct. These artistic structures will be accessible on both December 30 and 31, running daily from noon until 10 p.m. Visitors can explore various captivating lightscapes, including a photo booth designed with futuristic cyberpunk aesthetics, luminous representations of floating sea creatures, and an interactive miniature forest reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.

The central action will orbit around the Fountain Square, where a planetarium-inspired stage provides the epicenter for the midnight countdown. Before the final moments of 2024, attendees can expect a robust lineup of live entertainment. The musical roster features back-to-back performances beginning at 7 p.m., anchored by Zouk’s acclaimed resident, DJ Gainzter, and followed by the popular local cover ensemble, Nation One.

Aerial Spectacle: Drone Shows Over the River

A major highlight of the evening is CQ’s spectacular drone show, set to dazzle spectators overlooking the Singapore River. The aerial display, which this year comprises five distinct acts, can be best viewed from the Read Bridge. Show times are scheduled for two separate appearances at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., offering multiple opportunities for attendees to witness the synchronized light spectacle before the clock strikes midnight.

Recognizing the challenges of late-night public transport during holiday peak times, Clarke Quay is ensuring ease of access and departure for partygoers. The CQ Night Shuttle, which typically operates free services on Friday and Saturday nights, will be running additional routes on New Year’s Eve. This complimentary bus service offers pick-ups at various points within the city centre, ferrying thousands to Clarke Quay. Crucially, post-event, the shuttle extends service into the heartlands, providing a cost-effective and convenient way for attendees to return home after the massive celebration.

The comprehensive entertainment program and logistical support position the CQ @ Clarke Quay event as one of Singapore’s premier destination countdown experiences. As the metropolis prepares for 2025, this event underscores the city’s reputation for staging large-scale, high-quality public celebrations.

Planning Your Visit to CQ @ Clarke Quay

• When: December 31, 2024 (7 p.m. till late)
• Where: CQ @ Clarke Quay (Fountain Square)
• Don’t Miss: Drone shows at the Read Bridge (9 p.m. and 11 p.m.)
• Getting There: Utilize the free CQ Night Shuttle serving major pickups and heartland drop-offs post-event.

Singapore’s rapidly growing appetite for authentic Korean gastronomy and lifestyle products is being further satiated with the opening of the second Lotte Mart Express outlet. Following the success of its debut location in VivoCity earlier this year, the popular Korean retailer has launched a new store within the FairPrice Xtra at JEM, offering West-side residents a highly integrated and convenient shopping experience complete with exclusive imported goods and freshly prepared street food.

Decoding the Convenient K-Food Experience

The new Jurong branch adopts the successful “store-within-a-store” model, strategically nestled inside a major local supermarket. This design allows shoppers to seamlessly incorporate their hunt for Korean treats into their regular grocery runs, maximizing efficiency and accessibility.

At the heart of the Lotte Mart Express offering is an expansive inventory of over 800 products imported directly from Korea. Crucially, more than 160 of these items are exclusives, ensuring that shoppers encounter goods and brands not yet available elsewhere on the island. Among the notable selections are premium private-label offerings, including quick, quality meals from Yorihada and a diverse selection of popular snacks and beverages under the Good Today brand.

Street Eats and Slurping Stations

The outlet is designed to be more than just a retail space; it serves as a mini-cultural hub, particularly in its dedicated food sections.

A major draw is the Yorihada Kitchen, a specialized counter dedicated to hot, freshly made Korean street eats. While mirroring the atmosphere of iconic Seoul markets, this zone offers immediate gratification for those craving authentic K-food flavors. Patrons can indulge in traditional favorites such as honey rice cakes, savory squid kimchi pancakes, sweet potato fritters, and piping hot fish cake skewers.

For instant ramen aficionados, the in-house noodle bar is a highlight. Here, customers can select from a wide array of popular ramyeon brands, then prepare and enjoy their chosen meal on the spot. The area provides small seating spots, including playful, oversized noodle cup tables, offering a fun and quirky dining environment perfect for a quick bite.

Interactive Fun and Cultural Touchpoints

Beyond groceries and dining, the Jurong outlet incorporates interactive elements to enhance the shopping journey, lending a touch of Korean culture and entertainment.

One standout feature is the AI Photo Booth, which uses artificial intelligence technology to digitally overlay traditional Korean hanbok attire onto the user. This personalized and entertaining station allows visitors to virtually immerse themselves in Korean traditions, creating unique photo souvenirs.

The rapid expansion of Lotte Mart Express signals sustained consumer demand for high-quality, authentic international retail concepts in Singapore. By strategically locating its stores within existing hypermarkets and prioritizing unique, exclusive imports alongside prepared food concepts, the retailer is successfully carving out a significant niche among both the Korean diaspora and local K-culture enthusiasts. Visitors to JEM can now easily access this diverse slice of Seoul life while tackling their everyday shopping lists.

For Further Exploration:

• Explore local reviews on the VivoCity branch to compare product availability.
• Try replicating simple Korean dishes using the exclusive ingredients found at Lotte Mart Express.
• Seek locations of other international specialty grocery stores opening across the island.

As the year draws to a close, Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) is set to host the largest New Year countdown projection show in the ASEAN region, transforming two iconic waterfront skyscrapers into illuminated artistic canvases. This grand spectacle, centered around UOB Plaza and The Fullerton Hotel, will offer nightly, visually stunning displays leading up to a massive New Year’s Eve celebration, marking a luminous farewell to 2025 and an energetic entrance into 2026.

Illuminating the CBD for the Holidays

The year-end festivities begin in mid-December with nightly projection mapping at UOB Plaza at Raffles Place. Running from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM, this multi-week artistic showcase provides a dramatic backdrop to the vibrant holiday atmosphere gripping the city-state.

Initially, from December 18 to 25, the towering façade of UOB Plaza will feature a festive display integrating works by talented artists with disabilities, alongside compelling pieces sourced from the recent UOB Painting of the Year competition. This segment not only celebrates the season but also champions community and artistic excellence.

Following the initial Christmas run, the projections will transition to the main New Year countdown experience, which spans December 26 through January 1. During this period, the 67-story skyscraper will present a captivating visual narrative focused on a futuristic vision of Singapore. This imaginative journey will culminate in the final, exhilarating countdown sequence on December 31, synchronized across the facades of UOB Plaza 1 and the adjacent The Fullerton Hotel Singapore.

Music and Meaning: Supporting Childhood Cancer Research

Beyond the visual spectacle, the light shows are accompanied by a meaningful and stirring soundtrack. The official song, “Here We Are (Elijah version),” is an acoustic reimagining of Singapore’s National Day theme song. It was specifically composed in tribute to a young boy named Elijah, who passed away from cancer and deeply loved the original tune.

In the spirit of giving this holiday season, proceeds generated from the musical track will be directly donated to the Children’s Cancer Foundation, transforming the celebratory display into a platform for philanthropic support.

Where to Catch the Grand Finale

The countdown festivities are scheduled to intensify on December 31, with the main event kicking off at 11:00 PM. Due to the popularity and scale of the display, attendees are advised to arrive early to secure the best vantage points.

Optimal Viewing Locations:

• Cavenagh Bridge: Offers a direct, slightly elevated perspective of the UOB Plaza projections.
• Anderson Bridge: Provides excellent sightlines toward both participating buildings.
• Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) Riverfront: The open riverfront area opposite the projected buildings is traditionally an excellent spot for viewing the synchronized show.

This large-scale architectural projection reinforces Singapore’s position as a dynamic, technologically advanced hub for regional celebrations. By merging cutting-edge visual technology with meaningful community engagement, the event offers residents and visitors a memorable way to ring in 2026 while supporting a vital cause. The full schedule and project details are available via the UOB Group’s festival page.

Singapore’s Changi Airport is offering the public an exclusive, free-entry look into the ambitious development of its fifth terminal through an immersive exhibition, titled “T5 in the Making.” Launched in January 2024, the showcase provides a tangible preview of the sprawling, high-tech hub, decades in development, before its scheduled debut in the mid-2030s. Located at Terminal 3, the multisensory experience highlights the innovative design, technological integration, and historical context underpinning the airport’s continued expansion, inviting visitors to engage directly with the future of global air travel.

Visualizing the Mega-Hub: T5’s Decade-Spanning Development

The concept for Terminal 5 (T5) dates back to initial project announcements in 2013. While construction officially began only recently, the development represents a significant undertaking essential for maintaining Changi’s position as a premier global aviation node. This new terminal, integral to the Changi East development, is designed to accommodate the projected long-term growth in passenger traffic.

The “T5 in the Making” exhibition synthesizes the project’s scope into five distinct zones, employing artificial intelligence (AI) elements and cutting-edge visual displays. Visitors can explore the planned operational systems, architectural designs, and technological innovations slated for T5, including advanced baggage handling and seamless passenger flow processes. The exhibit serves dual purposes: education on the engineering complexities of building a mega-terminal and inspiration regarding the future shape of aviation.

A central element of the display anchors the project in the nation’s history. An installation traces the geographical transformation of Singapore, charting how reclaimed land provided the foundation for what is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best airports. This historical context underscores the magnitude of the country’s infrastructural achievements.

Interactive Future and Public Engagement

Beyond passively viewing the plans, the exhibition encourages public participation. Interactive stations allow visitors to contribute their ideas and visions for T5, overlaying personal perspectives onto the airport’s professional blueprints. This element of co-creation aims to foster a sense of community ownership and anticipation for the completed terminal.

T5 is expected to significantly increase Changi’s capacity, securing Singapore’s competitive edge in the highly dynamic Southeast Asian aviation market. The design prioritizes not only efficiency and capacity but also passenger experience—a quality for which the existing Changi terminals are globally renowned. Insights gleaned from the exhibition confirm T5 will incorporate concepts like flexible operations and sustainability, future-proofing the facility against evolving industry demands.

Planning Your Visit

The “T5 in the Making” exhibition is hosted at Changi Airport Terminal 3, Level 1 Arrival Hall. The showcase runs daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (with the last entry at 7:15 p.m.) and is scheduled to remain open until March 2026.

Key Visitor Details:

• Location: Changi Airport Terminal 3, Level 1 Arrival Hall.
• Dates: Runs through March 2026.
• Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
• Admission: Free, but online registration is mandatory for entry.

This lengthy exhibition period ensures both local residents and international transit passengers have ample opportunity to witness the development trajectory of the airport that will define Singapore’s air gateway for the next generation. Interested individuals must secure an entry slot via the official Changi Airport website. The preview underscores the meticulous planning and technological investment necessary to realize this colossal infrastructural project before its projected opening in the next decade.

As the year draws to a close, Singapore elevates its festive season with a monumental art and light display, anchoring the New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Central Business District (CBD). The city-state is set to host the largest New Year countdown projection show in the ASEAN region, transforming landmark skyscrapers into a dynamic, illuminated canvas leading up to the shift from 2025 to 2026. This initiative merges public art, technological spectacle, and charitable giving, offering a uniquely impactful end-of-year experience.

CBD Landmarks Transformed into Artistic Canvas

The main feature of these elaborate celebrations is a series of nightly projection mapping displays centered on UOB Plaza at Raffles Place. These displays, running consistently from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. leading up to New Year’s, illuminate the towering structure through various artistic themes.

The initial phase, running from December 18 to December 25, showcases community spirit and artistic diversity. This segment features compelling works created by artists with disabilities, alongside selected pieces from the prestigious UOB Painting of the Year competition.

Following Christmas, the focus shifts to a dynamic countdown show, scheduled from December 26 through January 1. During this period, the 67-story UOB Plaza will present viewers with a visual journey illustrating a futuristic, visionary Singapore. This phase also integrates additional artistic contributions from the UOB Painting of the Year finalists, blending contemporary art with futuristic concepts.

Grand Countdown and Philanthropic Focus

The celebrations reach their peak on December 31. The main New Year’s Eve countdown spectacle will utilize a dual projection system, illuminating both the façade of UOB Plaza 1 and the historic architecture of The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, symbolizing a grand transition into the new year. The countdown festivities are slated to commence at 11 p.m., drawing crowds to the iconic waterfront area.

A deeply moving element of the light show is its accompanying soundtrack: “Here We Are (Elijah version).” This acoustic arrangement is a reinterpretation of the National Day theme song “Here We Are,” specially created in homage to a young boy named Elijah, who succumbed to cancer and dearly loved the original song.

In the spirit of holiday giving, all proceeds generated from the specialized composition are dedicated to supporting the Children’s Cancer Foundation, tying the aesthetic celebration to a tangible humanitarian cause.

Maximizing the Viewing Experience

For spectators planning to attend the event, strategy is key for the best sightlines. The most optimal viewing locations recommended by experts include:

• Cavenagh Bridge: Offers a direct, iconic perspective of the riverfront action.
• Anderson Bridge: Provides elevated and central sightlines over the Singapore River.
• The riverfront area in front of the Asian Civilisations Museum: A spacious area offering a panoramic view of the projections across UOB Plaza and The Fullerton Hotel.

Given the significance of the countdown starting at 11 p.m. on December 31, attendees are advised to arrive significantly earlier to secure preferred vantage points. The integration of high-level technological artistry, community engagement, and philanthropy ensures Singapore’s New Year celebration offers more than just fireworks, providing a meaningful start to 2026.

Changi Airport is offering the public an exclusive, free-entry preview of its ambitious expansion plans for Terminal 5 (T5) through a new interactive exhibition, “T5 in the Making,” while construction is finally underway for the facility slated to open in the mid-2030s. Located in the Terminal 3 Arrival Hall, the multisensory showcase uses artificial intelligence and cutting-edge design displays to detail the technological, historical, and architectural vision behind the massive infrastructure project, which officials first announced in 2013.

The “T5 in the Making” exhibition provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of one of the world’s premier aviation hubs and offers visitors a detailed blueprint for its future. Through five distinct, technologically advanced zones, the exhibit highlights the intended high-tech systems, innovative design principles, and operational strategies planned for the next-generation terminal. The inclusion of AI elements throughout the experience underscores Changi Airport Group’s commitment to integrating smart technology into T5’s core functions, aiming for unparalleled efficiency and passenger experience.

Mapping Changi’s Transformation

A key feature of the exhibit is a central installation that narrates the remarkable history of the airport, specifically charting the transformation of reclaimed land into the globally recognized hub it is today. Visitors can follow the timeline of development, underscoring how Singapore, a geographically small nation, managed to cultivate an airport that consistently ranks among the best globally. This historical context anchors the futuristic plans for T5, positioning it as the next logical step in Changi’s legacy of innovation.

Beyond observation, the exhibition invites direct engagement. Interactive stations allow visitors to creatively contribute to the envisioned terminal, soliciting public input and inviting personalized visualization of what the completed T5 will represent for future generations of travelers.

Critical Infrastructure for Future Growth

The years-long development of Terminal 5 is critical for maintaining Changi Airport’s competitive edge and accommodating anticipated growth in air travel across Southeast Asia. By expanding capacity significantly, T5 is designed to cement Singapore’s role as a vital global aviation gateway for decades to come, handling millions of additional passengers annually with sophisticated, future-proof infrastructure.

Exhibition Details and Accessibility

The “T5 in the Making” exhibition is being held at the Arrival Hall of Changi Airport Terminal 3, Level 1. It commenced on January 6 and will run through March 2026. The operating hours are daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the last entry permitted at 7:15 p.m.

Admission to the experience is free of charge; however, pre-registration online is mandatory to manage visitor flow and ensure accessibility. Interested individuals should secure their booking appointments via the official Changi Airport website.

This long-running public display acts as both an educational resource and a strategic communication tool, keeping the public informed and engaged in the development of a landmark national project while offering a physical glimpse into the future of air travel in Singapore. As the completion date approaches in the mid-2030s, the exhibition provides immediate insight into the rigorous planning and technological ambition driving this massive undertaking.

Reflecting on the past year, Singapore’s discerning dining scene proved more vibrant than ever, marked by fervent exploration, supporting local entrepreneurs, and discovering hidden culinary gems. From beloved hawker classics to innovative modern Singaporean cuisine, the pursuit of exceptional flavour led our team across the island. After countless bowls of noodles, flaky pastries, and new restaurant experiences, five standout dishes ultimately captivated our editors and writers, securing their place as the most memorable plates of the year. Here is where to find these essential eats across Singapore.

The Most Unforgettable Bites of the Year

The shortlist showcases the city-state’s diverse gastronomic landscape, celebrating both masterful heritage recipes and inventive new concepts.

1. Fennel and Sage Sausage Roll at Wheathead

Despite its unconventional location, non-existent seating, high price points, and lack of standard coffee service, Wheathead has cemented itself as a powerhouse among Singapore’s bakeries. While their banana cream pie garners significant praise, it is the savoury Fennel and Sage Sausage Roll that truly steals the show.

Cheryl Sekkappan, Editor for Singapore and Asia, describes the experience: “This dish was a complete surprise. I expected a standard sausage roll, but the filling was incredibly juicy and aromatic with fresh herbs, encased in the most perfectly buttery, flaky crust imaginable. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, the size is substantial, and the quality makes it worth every cent. It’s the pastry I seek out every time I visit.”

2. Signature Mee Pok (with Prawn Paste) from Fan Ji Speciality Noodle

Even two years after its original discovery, the standard set by Fan Ji’s bak chor mee remains unmatched. Tucked away in a Clementi residential estate, this humble kopitiam stall is now run by a younger chef who apprenticed under the original owner. The core appeal of their mee pok (available from $7) lies in its unusually dense, chewy noodles and the precisely calibrated sauce blend.

Senior Food & Drink Writer Adira Chow notes the dedication required for a taste: “The queue often averages an hour, deep within Clementi, but this is genuinely the best bak chor mee I have ever encountered. The noodles are firm and bouncy, the seasoning delivers a punch, and the addition of a sweet cabbage soup and house-made prawn paste elevates the entire experience, justifying the long wait and journey.”

3. Clam Custard at Belimbing

Opened above The Coconut Club on Beach Road, Belimbing is challenging palates with its ‘new-gen’ Singaporean cuisine. The kitchen avoids typical local dish upgrades, instead focusing on unexpected combinations, obscure ingredients, and profound creativity. Among the notable dishes—including fragrant nasi ulam and firefly squid—the Clam Custard stands out.

Nicole-Marie Ng, Regional Content Director, APAC, was so impressed she ordered the dish twice: “The clam custard is phenomenal: silky egg custard matched with tangy assam pedas and a white pepper sauce that ties it all together perfectly. Belimbing, which champions local ingredients presented by a young, talented team at reasonable prices, is my clear favourite new restaurant opening of the year.”

4. Lamb Shawarma from Damascus Delights

Located conveniently near Tampines MRT Station, Damascus Delights offers a taste of authentic Levantine street food. Run by Abdulhadi Al Saadi, a Syrian chef who eventually settled in Singapore after fleeing civil conflict, the takeaway kiosk specializes in shawarma, falafel, and hummus. Our editors highlight the tender Lamb Shawarma ($10.50).

Branded Content Editor Cam Khalid discovered the stall via social media: “As Singapore’s first Syrian food stall, I had to investigate. Chef Hadi’s lamb shawarma is beautifully marinated—succulent and entirely devoid of any gamey taste. The chilli sauce perfectly hits that spicy, tangy, and sweet trifecta, complemented by beautifully smooth tahini.”

5. Yellow Crab Curry at Jungle

Jungle, found among the late-night venues on Ann Siang Hill, offers refined Thai cuisine in a vibrant setting. With a concise, no-fuss menu, the focus is squarely on execution. Their signature Yellow Crab Curry ($32) remains a menu mainstay, offering deep flavour and satisfying heat.

Campaign Manager Farah Adilah calls Jungle one of her favourite restaurants in the city: “The setting is lovely, and the Thai food is refined. While choosing a single standout dish is difficult, this crab curry likely tops the list. The spice level is manageable yet deeply satisfying, and a small portion goes far, especially drizzled generously over steaming white rice.”

These five dishes encapsulate the depth and quality of Singapore’s dining landscape, demonstrating that excellent food can be found everywhere, from a simple kopitiam stall to the newest high-concept restaurant. Food lovers are encouraged to seek out these definitive tastes of the year.