Video game enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers can dive into the pixelated world of the 1980s as Singapore’s Sentosa island debuts the inaugural Pac-Man Carnival for Southeast Asia. Organized in partnership with Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia, this vibrant, semi-outdoor event at Palawan Green transforms the classic arcade experience into a life-sized spectacle, running from now through January 11, 2026. The carnival merges throwback gaming zones, interactive attractions, and special programming, including a major New Year’s Eve celebration, offering an immersive treat for fans of the iconic character.
Relive the Golden Age of Gaming
The event serves as a massive interactive tribute to the beloved Pac-Man franchise, appealing to both longtime fans and younger audiences. At the heart of the carnival is a physical, neon-lit maze where visitors can quite literally transform into Pac-Man, navigating the glowing enclosure.
Beyond the immersive maze, several zones cater to diverse entertainment preferences. A dedicated free-play section features retro gaming stations, allowing visitors to grab a joystick and buttons for traditional gameplay battles. This is complemented by large LED jumbotrons hosting modern gaming challenges, alongside a preview section showcasing the newest Pac-Man PC titles.
Key Carnival Attractions:
- Life-Sized Neon Maze: An opportunity to physically experience Pac-Man’s world.
- Retro Gaming Zones: Free-play stations featuring classic arcade cabinets.
- Carnival Games: Traditional stalls offering ring toss and other prizes.
- Exclusive Merchandise: A retail corner stocked with Bandai Namco licensed goods.
- Mascot Meet-and-Greets: Photo opportunities with the official Pac-Man mascot.
Keeping true to the carnival spirit, stalls selling food and beverages are available to fuel marathon gaming sessions. Classic fairground games, such as ring toss, are also integrated, ensuring there is something for non-gamers as well. Vibrant, photo-friendly inflatables scattered throughout Palawan Green add to the festive atmosphere.
Ringing in the New Year with Pac-Man
One of the significant highlights of the run is the special New Year’s Eve countdown program scheduled for December 31. Starting at 8 p.m., the evening will feature performances by various local artists, maintaining energy and excitement leading up to midnight. The celebration culminates with a spectacular fireworks display signaling the arrival of the new year.
The Pac-Man Carnival is conveniently located next to the HyperDrive attraction at Palawan Green, Sentosa. Operating hours vary throughout the week: Monday to Thursday, the gates are open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. On Fridays and weekends, the carnival runs from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the last entry permitted at 9 p.m.
Attendance options cater to different budgets and interests. Standard admission is priced at $2.90. For those looking to immediately jump into the arcade action, a general admission ticket inclusive of 20 minutes of arcade gameplay costs $5.90. Full ticketing details and event information are available online.
This engaging event provides an accessible dose of pop culture nostalgia, leveraging the enduring popularity of classic arcade characters while offering Singapore and Southeast Asia a new, major interactive lifestyle attraction running into the early weeks of January. It solidifies Sentosa’s position as a premier destination for unique, family-friendly entertainment.