This May, immerse yourself in the vibrant stories, traditions, and people that shape Singapore’s rich living heritage as Singapore HeritageFest (SHF) 2025 returns from 1 to 25 May with over 100 programmes across the island. In celebration of SG60 and its 22nd edition, SHF invites Singaporeans to rediscover the cultural heartbeat of the nation—from age-old crafts and performing arts to food traditions and nature-based knowledge.
Organised by HeritageSG, a subsidiary of the National Heritage Board (NHB), this year’s festival shines a spotlight on the nation’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)—the practices, stories, and knowledge passed down through generations. Building on the momentum of Singapore’s UNESCO-recognised elements—Hawker Culture and the kebaya—SHF 2025 brings the festival experience closer to the community through islandwide events that are interactive, inclusive, and deeply rooted in local traditions.
Highlights of SHF 2025
Performing Arts Meets Modern Flair
- Out of the Red Box: Experience a bold fusion of Chinese opera, getai, and contemporary music in this theatrical production by Nam Hwa Opera and The ETCeteras.
- Beats on Baghdad Street: Bangsawan Pantomime: Dive into the magic of Malay opera with this spirited retelling of Sang Nila Utama’s discovery of Singapore.
- An Odyssey to the South: Discover the haunting beauty of Nanyin music with Siong Leng Musical Association.
Craft Your Own Traditions
- Rattan Knot Weaving x anothersole: Create your own custom Belle Mary Janes with artist Ng Si Ying.
- Making Traditional Lanterns: Learn the symbolism behind handmade lanterns with Francis Tan.
- My Grandma’s Startup: Follow the legacy of master woodcarver Ng Tze Yong in a heartwarming story of heritage and design.
Flavours of the Past and Present
- Gotong-Royong: Nasi Ulam Recipe Crafting: Learn the art of crafting Nasi Ulam with Sendok Rakyat.
- Night Shift at Sweetlands Bakery: Step into a retro bakery and try your hand at baking a cempedak cake.
- Savouring Heritage – A Journey through Bak Kut Teh: Explore the heritage of this iconic dish with Song Fa and Pek Sin Choon.
Culture, Community, and Celebration
- Kahwin-Kahwin: Singapore Wedding Stories: Experience the beauty of multicultural wedding traditions through exhibits and workshops by Tied Alliance.
- Rites of Passage: Discover how different communities mark life’s milestones with the Eurasian Association.
- Kampong Playtime: Relive nostalgic childhoods through traditional games with MINT Museum of Toys.
Nature, Art, and Ritual
- Flower Tying Workshop: Weave fragrant garlands and learn the meaning behind every bloom.
- Painting with Native Plant Pigments: Get creative using natural dyes and sustainable stencils.
- Orchid Cultivation Workshop: Visit the birthplace of the Vanda Miss Joaquim and explore its floral legacy.
Returning Festival Favourites
HOMEGROUND Village @ Silver Garden, Gardens by the Bay
Celebrate everyday heritage with hands-on workshops, performances, an engaging exhibition, a heritage retail market (co-presented with the Singapore Tourism Board), and a special hawker pop-up in partnership with the National Environment Agency.
Ride & Discover
Take a cultural detour on your commute with mini exhibitions at Somerset, Dhoby Ghaut, and Bayfront MRT stations, featuring bite-sized stories and visuals that celebrate Singapore’s living heritage.
UNDISCLOSED: Mystery Tour Returns
Back for its third edition, this surprise tour keeps its location under wraps until the very last moment—offering an unexpected twist to discovering Singapore’s hidden heritage gems.
In collaboration with over 90 community partners, including Yeo’s, Stellar Ace, Sendok Rakyat, and Gateway Theatre, SHF 2025 champions the people and practices that breathe life into Singapore’s cultural identity.
Registrations open on 22 April, 12pm.
Visit here for full programme details and to plan your heritage journey.
SIFA 2025: Celebrating Singapore’s Cultural Identity Through the Arts
