More about: 10 Things to Do in Singapore in November
November in Singapore is a month with varied entertainment options and a fairly kind and balanced climate, with temperatures ranging between 25° and 31°. The only downside is that the monsoon season is approaching, so it is common to encounter rainfall. However, they are mild precipitations that help to reduce humidity and maintain a pleasant environment. The low tourist influx is another reason why this month is ideal for exploring the city, especially if you want to visit the most emblematic monuments.
You'll be free to explore the best things to do in Singapore. For example, if you're a fan of mysteries and movies, you can take advantage of the latest Halloween events at Universal Studios Singapore locations. In addition, this month is packed with events such as the Deepavali Festival of Lights, Clay Festival, Writers Festival and the first Christmas flea markets. Last but not least, if you are a shopaholic, Black Friday is not to be missed. Take note!
1. Take a cruise on the Singapore River
A cruise can be an alternative to get to know the Singapore River, especially in November. During this month, the weather is more pleasant and less humid and the number of tourists tends to decrease. In addition, themed events are held on the ships to mark the beginning of the Christmas season. You can also expect other types of cultural performances and dining experiences.
These types of activities will lead you to explore the fascinating local history and architecture, while enjoying unparalleled views of the old docks and impressive skyscrapers that loom over the city. In fact, it's one of the best things to do in Singapore, as you can delight in an approximately 40-minute walk to see sights such as the Merlion Statue, Esplanade Park and Clarke Quay.
2. Attend the Deepavali Festival of Lights
Singapore is a multicultural city, where the presence of Indian, Malay, Eurasian and Chinese communities, among others, is noticeable. Therefore, it is not surprising that they welcome the Deepavali Festival of Lights, a typical festival of India and Nepal where you will enjoy a taste of this rich culture, through a colorful and multitudinous celebration.
Upon arrival you will be met with twinkling decorations starring thousands of bright lights. A traditional ceremony is also held, which is accompanied by Hindu shows, street parades with caravans of floats and traditional dance shows. Another must-see tradition is the open-air concerts, which are held on the eve of the event.
To enjoy the activities you should head to Little India between October and November. Note that the routes of the best tourist buses in Singapore usually offer stops and walking tours in this area. It might be a good option to check it out and come back to enjoy the event, if you think it is worthwhile. Also, on these dates you will see offerings and oil lamps outside the houses in the neighborhood.
3. Have fun in a Viking winter wonderland at Nordic Christmas Adventure
Move to the Gardens by the Bay to enjoy Nordic Christmas Adventure, a Christmas preview that has become a symbol in Singapore. This famous exhibit graces the Advent season with an authentic Viking paradise, offering family-friendly attractions and shows that will transport you to the North Pole energy that the Nordic countries emanate. Generally, it can be enjoyed from November to January, so you can't miss it in your itinerary.
Enjoy Norwegian music concerts, appreciate the Sami costumes typical of Lapland, enter traditional Nordic houses and send postcards to Santa Claus. Of course, it's a great option if you're looking for things to do in Singapore with kids, or if you want to bring out your inner child. You'll likely be able to enjoy special activities such as:
- Jolly Holly Show: it's a jaw-dropping theatrical production that tells the story of a little boy who manages to make his toys come to life during Christmas. Of course, it is a good option to immerse the little ones in a touching story.
- Nordic Christmas Workshop: feel like in the real North Pole and get down to work to help Santa Claus, you can start by making your Christmas stocking to receive your gifts.
- Christmas Market: sometimes a market is set up where you can taste freshly baked Nordic delicacies.
- Nordic Art Lab: here you can create your own Christmas tree or ornament, with materials that represent this season.
- Unforgettable visits: don't miss the tours of Santa's House and the Elves' Hut, who play an indispensable role in creating the magic of Christmas.
4. Make pottery at the Singapore Clay Festival
In early November you can attend the Singapore Clay Festival, an annual event with a variety of recreational activities to help you de-stress. It revolves around clay and the world of ceramics and offers demonstrations, workshops, art markets, cultural exhibits. You can even learn how to model clay or enjoy a romantic evening of molding as a couple.
During the event you can explore a craft market, to buy souvenirs of your trip to the City of the Future. It's very special because you can interact with professional potters and learn touching stories, which will show you how Singapore's experiences are transformed into art.
5. Enjoy the latest Halloween events at Universal Studios Singapore
Halloween is an October celebration and in Singapore it is highly anticipated, as Singaporeans love every detail involved in the holiday. So much so that many events extend into the first days of November, if your trip coincides with these dates you can still see the black and orange decorations that wallpaper the city. Even some people lurk in costume and join the annual festivals that fill the perimeter with life.
The best place to celebrate Halloween in the middle of November is Universal Studios Singapore, where themed events usually last until the first week of November. In fact, it is considered the epicenter of horror entertainment and offers haunted houses, light and music shows, as well as parades through the facility.
Its attractions absorb Asian culture and make it creepy through tales of murderers, clown mazes and the haunted jungle of Thailand. If you're looking for things to do in Singapore with kids, keep in mind that they can play trick or treat and enjoy other attractions more suitable for their age. There are other places to join the cathartic energy left by this celebration such as the Museum of Ancient Civilizations with paranormal rendod tables and fantasy zones for kids.
6. Go crazy with the Black Friday discounts
Singapore is no slouch when it comes to fun events, so if you plan to visit the city in the last days of November, you can go crazy with Black Friday discounts. This tradition originated in the United States and has spread around the world, even reaching the most special corners of Southeast Asia.
In fact, it is one of the most expensive cities to live in, so locals take advantage of the best deals of the year to stock up their closets, homes and renew appliances. If you plan to spend at least 3 days in Singapore during the month of November, you can't miss this opportunity. Some attractions may also have discounts, or you can take advantage of the best tourist cards in town.
Here is a shopping guide with the most recommended areas for good shopping.
- Orchard Road: is a trendy area, where you can find modern shopping malls, high-end stores and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere during Black Friday.
- Far East Plaza: it is famous for its bargaining areas, where discounts are guaranteed, especially on dates like Black Friday.
- Scape Market: if you plan to stay at least 2 days in Singapore and enjoy a different weekend, then you have to check out this picturesque place where you will have to put your bargaining skills to the test.
- Ethnic neighborhoods: if what you want is to get jewels full of history and culture, maybe the best is to shop in areas like Little India or Chinatown.
- Sim Lim Square: if you are in search of home appliances, just head to this trendy street, which has the latest in the technological world.
7. Visit the annual Affordable Art Fair in Singapore
If you love art or want to browse collections, just head to the Affordable Art Fair, an annual fair held in November since 2007. This event takes you to explore more than 80 galleries, where you'll find exhibits by Singaporean and international artists. As a result, you'll enjoy a trip around the world through unique pieces and fun-filled programs.
You'll also have the opportunity to browse emerging artists and get to know them before they become famous. You'll even be able to buy affordable art, either to start your art collection or to complement it. Don't worry if you're not an art fanatic or an experienced collector, the fair is designed for the whole family to have a good time. You won't have to leave the site to eat either, as you'll find food and drink stalls along the way.
Keep in mind that this is a highly coveted event, with proposals around the world in emblematic cities such as New York, Brussels, Amsterdam, Shanghai, Hamburg, Hong Kong, among others. Therefore, it is a real fortune that it takes place in this month, when the tourist influx is quite moderate.
8. Admire the first Christmas lights
Singapore is a paradise of lights from November to January, so make the most of your trip during the Advent season, to appreciate the lighting of the lights that mark the beginning of the Christmas season. The most impressive lighting takes place on Orchard Road, an iconic Singapore street with a vibrant atmosphere. However, there are other sites that are embellished with the presence of twinkling lights, such as Marina Bay, local beaches and around the Singapore River.
Shopping malls also often have eye-catching displays, in fact you can check out the Christmas tree at Takashimaya Mall. It is approximately 16 meters high and has become an annual tradition, with very beautiful decorations and worth admiring. There are other emblematic spaces where you can enjoy lighting or light shows such as the Gardens by the Bay, the S.E.A. Aquarium or Universal Studios Singapore
9. Slide down the indoor water slide during rainy days
November is a slightly rainy month, so you need to be prepared. During this time it pays to look for fun activities and include some that are not outdoors, so you have options to escape the precipitation. A great alternative are the indoor slides that immerse you in an adventure full of adrenaline, and take you through curves with different types of intensity.
One of the best known is the one at Changi International Airport, which allows you to spend your layovers in a fun way, especially on rainy days. It is located on level 1 and is 12 meters high, descending four floors full of fun. In the theme parks of Sentosa Island there are also options to cover yourself from bad weather conditions and you can take advantage of the best tourist cards in Singapore, to save a couple of euros.
Additionally, Wild Wild Wet is a theme park with options for all ages, where you will find slides of different sizes and speeds. Of course, there are other activities to escape the rainy days, including visiting Singapore's best museums, strolling through the gardens or crossing the city aboard the Sentosa cable car.
If you really want to get out of the hotel and wander around the city, you can also embark on an adventure aboard Singapore's best sightseeing buses. Or take advantage of the Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT), the public transport system that connects different locations and will get you to your destination dry.
10. Nourish yourself at the Singapore Writers Festival
If you want to nourish yourself with **Singapore'**s culture, then you have to make a stop at the Writers' Festival. It is an ideal annual event for those who love to read and escape from the routine, through fantastic worlds. Here you will find a space with an enriching program, which has been held since 1986 and promotes emerging writing from Asian countries.
You will have the opportunity to attend panels of renowned writers, enjoy reading clubs to discuss a work as a team and witness the launch of new works. Admission starts at 7 euros, but it is usually a Festival Pass that includes all events. Of course, I recommend you check on the website, as some conferences may have an additional cost. There are also free activities that require pre-registration online, which are ideal for the whole family.
Tips for visiting Singapore in November
- Wear comfortable and cool clothing, as it is usually quite hot during the day. Although it does not hurt to add a jacket and pack a raincoat, to face the rainy season without inconvenience.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as the sun index in this month is quite high.
- Use the best tourist cards in Singapore to save money and access different attractions for the same price.