Singapore, a dynamic city-state at the heart of Southeast Asia, transforms into a vibrant holiday destination each December. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Singapore in December offers a unique experience that combines ideal weather conditions, festive activities, and cultural events. This article will guide you through the reasons to visit, the weather you can expect, and the plethora of activities and events that await you.
Weather in Singapore in December: Overview
December brings a mix of rain and comfort, marking it as the tourist peak season in Singapore. Despite being the coldest month, the temperatures are pleasantly warm, encouraging outdoor exploration.
- Average Temperature: Visitors can expect daytime temperatures to hover around 30°C, dipping to more comfortable levels of 23.5°C in the evenings. This slight decrease in temperature compared to other months makes December one of the most pleasant times to explore Singapore’s outdoor attractions.
- Average Rainfall: December is amongst the wettest months in Singapore, with an average rainfall of about 287.4mm. Rainfall is spread over approximately 19 days, often in the form of short, heavy downpours. This high level of precipitation contributes to the lush, green landscapes that Singapore is famous for, but it also means visitors should be prepared with rain gear.
- Average Daylight Hours: With around 4.3 hours of daylight, the days in December are shorter, giving a cozy ambiance to the city’s festive lights and decorations. This creates a perfect setting for evening walks under the twinkling lights of Orchard Road or the Marina Bay area.
- Sea Temperature: For beach lovers, the sea temperature around Singapore in December is warm and inviting at approximately 29 °C. This makes it an ideal time for water activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the beachside.
Why You Should Visit Singapore in December
Ideal Weather for Exploration
December in Singapore ushers in the Northeast Monsoon season, bringing with it a refreshing coolness not felt at other times of the year. While the temperature slightly dips a couple of degrees below the yearly average, it remains comfortable for exploration. With average temperatures ranging from 23.5°C to 30°C, the weather is conducive for outdoor activities. Though it is the wettest month, the rain brings a certain charm to the city, enhancing its lush greenery and providing a respite from the usual heat.
Festive Atmosphere and Crowded Streets
December is when Singapore truly comes alive, with tourists flocking to the city, creating a bustling and lively atmosphere. This period is marked by an array of events, live performances, and parties celebrating the holiday season. The city’s multicultural fabric means you can experience a diverse range of celebrations, from Christmas to New Year’s Eve festivities. The energy is palpable, with something happening at every corner to entertain visitors of all ages.
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Style
Singapore is renowned for its spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. From breathtaking fireworks displays over Marina Bay to rooftop parties offering panoramic views of the city, there’s no shortage of ways to welcome the new year. With the day being a public holiday, the city immerses itself in celebrations, making it an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
December Specials in Singapore
December in Singapore is not just about the weather or the festive atmosphere; it’s about unique events and attractions that make this city-state stand out as a holiday destination. From beach parties to Christmas parades, here’s a closer look at what makes December in Singapore truly special.
Beach Parties at Sentosa
Sentosa Island transforms into a party paradise in December, with its beaches, Tanjong and Siloso, hosting weekend-long celebrations. These parties are a blend of vibrant music acts featuring both local and international artists, energetic DJs, and an array of great food. It’s the perfect place to let loose and enjoy the seaside ambiance under the stars.
Read Also: Discover the Best Beaches on Sentosa Island, Singapore 2024
Orchard Road’s Christmas Parade
The festive spirit takes over Orchard Road on Christmas Day with a spectacular Christmas Parade. This event is a visual treat with elaborate floats, costumed characters, and joyful music, creating a festive atmosphere that captivates both young and old. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Singapore in December.
Read Also: 17 Best Hotels in Orchard Road Singapore: Luxury & Budget 2024
Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay
A visit to the Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay is essential for anyone in Singapore during December. This event, held on December 26, offers an immersive holiday experience with attractions like Santa’s grotto, carnival games, a festival market, and a skating rink. Highlights include a special Christmas Rhapsody and various shows that bring the magic of Christmas to life.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Singapore welcomes the new year with grandeur, featuring parties, shows, and fireworks across the city. The festivities are widespread, but the most spectacular fireworks can be seen at Marina Bay, where the sky lights up at midnight, heralding the start of a new year.
Christmas on A Great Street
Orchard Road, known as Singapore’s shopping belt, becomes even more lively during December with “Christmas on A Great Street.” Starting November 16, the street is illuminated with stunning Christmas lights, setting the stage for month-long festivities. Visitors can explore three Christmas Villages offering carnival rides, games, and food stations. Augmented reality displays and a street party on Christmas Eve add to the celebration, making it an unforgettable experience.
Ice Magic: The Winter Wonderland
For a snowy escape in tropical Singapore, “Ice Magic: The Winter Wonderland” at Bayfront Event Space is the place to be. This pop-up attraction features a merry-go-round on ice, a double-lane ice slide, and a snow slope for skiing. The indoor winter landscape is adorned with ice sculptures and a cozy wooden cottage, creating a perfect backdrop for holiday photos. The Winter Food Village offers festive treats, and the multi-hued lights at the end of each session mimic the Northern Lights for a magical finish.
Changi Festive Village
Singapore’s Changi Airport, celebrated as the world’s best airport, is hosting a grand Christmas celebration with this year’s theme being a delightful nod to all things sweet. The Changi Festive Village transforms Terminal 3 into a candy-themed wonderland, complete with a seven-meter-tall cupcake Ferris wheel, a candy cane lane, and a gingerbread house at the departure hall.
The arrival hall hosts the Candy Carnival, featuring inflatable castles, go-kart courses, and carnival games. Not to be missed is the Candy Snow House, where visitors can slide down snowy slides and enjoy rides in hand-pulled sleighs, making for a festive experience that’s as sweet as it is fun.
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Things to Do & Places To Visit In Singapore In December
Singapore’s welcoming December climate opens the doors to numerous renowned attractions, offering visitors a mix of entertainment, leisure, and cultural experiences. Here is a curated list of the best places to visit in Singapore during this festive month.
Universal Studios Singapore
Timings: Daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm
As the only Universal Studios theme park in Southeast Asia, Universal Studios Singapore promises an unforgettable adventure into the world of movies and Hollywood entertainment. With rides, performances, and attractions inspired by favorite movies and TV programs, it’s a thrilling escapade for visitors of all ages.
Singapore Cruises
Singapore, a premier cruising destination in Asia, offers an escape into the vast blue waters surrounding the city. The Singapore cruise experience provides a serene break from the urban hustle, letting visitors relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the city’s skyline. It’s a favored choice for those looking to experience Singapore from a different perspective.
Orchard Road
Orchard Road, a 2.5-mile-long bustling street in Singapore’s Central Area, is the city’s most famous shopping and tourist district. Especially in December, Orchard transforms with lavish decorations, making it a prime entertainment center. Its array of international department stores, restaurants, and cafes attracts visitors from around the globe.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Timing: Daily 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
The SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands offers breathtaking views from 56 stories high, providing a panoramic spectacle of Marina Bay and Singapore’s towering skyscrapers. The SkyPark, resembling an ocean liner, features an observation deck, an infinity pool, and a grove of trees, offering visitors a serene escape amidst the city’s buzz.
Madame Tussauds Singapore
Timings: Wednesday to Monday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Madame Tussauds in Singapore houses a stunning collection of wax figures of famous personalities, making it a fascinating attraction for visitors. As the eighth Asian branch of the world’s largest chain of wax museums, it offers an engaging experience for those looking to get up close with celebrity likenesses.
Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island, beyond its Christmas festivities, is a treasure trove of attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides at Adventure Cove Waterpark to intimate encounters with dolphins and the vast marine life at SEA Aquarium, Sentosa offers a myriad of experiences. It’s a must-visit destination in Singapore, especially in December.
Jurong Bird Park
Location: 2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925
Asia’s largest bird park, Jurong Bird Park, is home to 400 species and more than 3,500 birds. It stands out as an ideal place for families and bird enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to observe birds up close. The park is designed to provide sheltered viewing areas, ensuring a comfortable visit regardless of the weather.
National Gallery Singapore
Location: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, #01 – 01, Singapore 178957
The National Gallery Singapore, boasting the world’s largest public collection of Southeast Asian and Singaporean art, is a cultural landmark. With over 800 artworks, it provides insights into Singapore’s rich heritage and culture. The gallery is a must-visit for those interested in the arts and the cultural narratives of Singapore and Southeast Asia.
New Year Countdown Parties in Singapore
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Singapore is an experience like no other, with the entire city transforming into a massive party zone. Here’s a rundown of the best places to be when the clock strikes midnight and ushers in the new year:
1. Marina Bay
Spotlight: Marina Bay is the quintessential location for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Singapore. The waterfront area comes alive with dazzling fireworks, festive feasts, and joyous celebrations. Iconic landmarks like The Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, Esplanade, and The Helix Bridge add to the allure, surrounded by a plethora of dining and entertainment options. Marina Bay’s vibrant atmosphere makes it the perfect place to countdown to the new year.
For more information, visit the Marina Bay Countdown page.
2. Marina Bay Sands Singapore
Spotlight: For a luxurious New Year’s Eve, Marina Bay Sands is unbeatable. Known for its striking architecture and rooftop infinity pool, the hotel offers a prime vantage point for watching the spectacular fireworks. Note that pool access is exclusive to hotel guests, so booking a stay is advisable for the full experience.
For reservations and information, call +65 6688 8868 or visit Marina Bay Sands.
3. Esplanade
Spotlight: As Singapore’s premier performing arts center, the Esplanade hosts an array of concerts and events featuring top local and international artists on New Year’s Eve. The celebrations here are renowned for their vibrant energy and diverse performances, ensuring the year ends on a high note.
For event details, call +65 6828 8377 or visit Esplanade and their New Year’s Eve Countdown page.
4. Sentosa Island – Siloso Beach
Spotlight: Sentosa Island is a hotspot for festivities year-round, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The Siloso Beach Party is the island’s signature event, offering a night of music, dancing, and unforgettable celebrations by the beach. It’s the ideal destination for those looking to welcome the new year with their feet in the sand.
5. Car-free Countdown – Civic District
Spotlight: The Civic District offers a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with its car-free countdown party. Extending operating hours for historic attractions like the National Gallery, Asian Civilisations Museum, and the Fullerton Hotel, the district buzzes with activities. Expect everything from 3D shows at Fullerton Hotel to flea markets and fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere steeped in cultural heritage.
New Year Countdown Parties in Singapore
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Singapore is an experience like no other, with the entire city transforming into a massive party zone. Here’s a rundown of the best places to be when the clock strikes midnight and ushers in the new year:
1. Marina Bay
Marina Bay is the quintessential location for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Singapore. The waterfront area comes alive with dazzling fireworks, festive feasts, and joyous celebrations. Iconic landmarks like The Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, Esplanade, and The Helix Bridge add to the allure, surrounded by a plethora of dining and entertainment options. Marina Bay’s vibrant atmosphere makes it the perfect place to countdown to the new year.
Read Also: 12 Hotels in Marina Bay, Singapore 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
2. Marina Bay Sands Singapore
For a luxurious New Year’s Eve, Marina Bay Sands is unbeatable. Known for its striking architecture and rooftop infinity pool, the hotel offers a prime vantage point for watching the spectacular fireworks. Note that pool access is exclusive to hotel guests, so booking a stay is advisable for the full experience.
For reservations and information, call +65 6688 8868 or visit Marina Bay Sands.
3. Esplanade
As Singapore’s premier performing arts center, the Esplanade hosts an array of concerts and events featuring top local and international artists on New Year’s Eve. The celebrations here are renowned for their vibrant energy and diverse performances, ensuring the year ends on a high note.
For event details, call +65 6828 8377 or visit Esplanade and their New Year’s Eve Countdown page.
4. Sentosa Island – Siloso Beach
Sentosa Island is a hotspot for festivities year-round, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The Siloso Beach Party is the island’s signature event, offering a night of music, dancing, and unforgettable celebrations by the beach. It’s the ideal destination for those looking to welcome the new year with their feet in the sand.
Read Also: Sentosa Fun Pass: Save Up to 60% on Tickets in 2024
5. Car-free Countdown – Civic District
The Civic District offers a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with its car-free countdown party. Extending operating hours for historic attractions like the National Gallery, Asian Civilisations Museum, and the Fullerton Hotel, the district buzzes with activities. Expect everything from 3D shows at Fullerton Hotel to flea markets and fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere steeped in cultural heritage.
Conclusion: Singapore in December
Visiting Singapore in December is an opportunity to experience the city at its most vibrant and festive. With its ideal weather, bustling crowds, and array of events and activities, Singapore offers something for everyone during the holiday season. From exploring festive markets to enjoying the outdoor beauty, December in Singapore is a time of celebration, reflection, and unforgettable experiences.
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