These regular markets, fairs and bazaars in Singapore offer the perfect alternative shopping experience and the best of independent brands, second-hand goods and collector's items
Having a mall in (nearly) every neighbourhood and huge shopping districts in Singapore is great and all – but sometimes, nothing gives us the thrill of the hunt like scoring a bargain buy in a pile of random things, or getting our hands on a rare antique. Forget about big-name brands and chain stores for a sec – our round-up of regular flea markets, fairs and bazaars will have you delightedly rummaging for the best quirky finds and deals, from handmade jewellery and furniture to second-hand toys and clothes.
Boutique Fairs Singapore
No need for haggling or rummaging through piles of clothes here; Boutique Fairs Singapore (pictured top) is an upmarket affair of fabulous independent brands and gourmet bites. Held biannually, the Fair features a beautifully curated collection, from clothing to children’s toys, to homewares, jewellery and books. Sip while you shop (you’ll be greeted with a glass of wine at the door) for the coolest fashion and lifestyle finds.
Where: F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard, #02-01 and #02-02, Singapore 038975
When: Twice a year – the next event is on Friday 6 November to Saturday 7 November. Mark your diaries, folks!
Website: www.facebook.com/BoutiquesSingapore
Public Garden
This regular flea market is a favourite amongst the independent art-loving crowd. Selling everything from handmade jewellery to pillowcases, to vintage vinyls and baked goods, Public Garden is also a great community for creators and small business owners.
Where: Various locations
When: Monthly
Website: www.public-garden.com
Fleawhere
Singapore’s largest flea market organiser has something for everyone – doesn’t matter if you’re a hipster looking for quirky finds or a mum searching for second-hand toys. Held at different locations, recurring markets to look out for are Space Invasion and Flea Party. Our hot tip? Check out the PasarBella Pop Market on 15 and 16 August for great hand-picked goods.
Where: Various Locations
When: Happening every weekend
Website: www.fleawhere.com
MAAD: Market of Artists and Designers
This creative marketplace is where the arty-farty come to play. The emphasis is on originality here – so expect to see innovative work by artists, designers and even musicians. For a little memento, purchase exclusive designs by local craftsmen or get your portrait done by a talented illustratos. Don’t worry about keeping the kids entertained – there’ll be plenty of activities for them like face-painting, and cute handmade plushies and clothes if you want to pick up a little treat.
Where: Red Dot Design Museum
When: Monthly – check out the site for more details
Website: www.museum.red-dot.sg/maad
Singapore Really Really Free Market
Resembling Enid Blyton’s Land of Take-What-You-Want is the Singapore Really Really Free Market (SRRFM). Leave your money at home for this one – you can literally take anything you wish. Held as a non-reactionary response to capitalism, we suggest bringing your once-loved goods or skills you’d love to share to the market for a great trade-off.
Where: Various Locations
When: Stay tuned to the official Facebook page for more details
Website: www.facebook.com/srrfm
Zouk Flea & Easy
Favourite nightlife spot Zouk is not only loved for its consistent big name-acts but also for its quarterly Flea & Easy Market – which is a famous hunting ground for sartorial gems. Rummage thoroughly and you could be duly rewarded with anything from quirky jewellery from the ’70s to a beautifully aged leather satchel. Its recent edition featured a daytime Pasar Malam theme with old-school favourites like cup corn and tutu kueh, face-painting for the kids and ZouKiDisco – a danceathon for you to bust out your moves with your little ones.
Where: Zouk Club, 17 Jiak Kim Street, Singapore 169420
When: Quarterly
Website: www.zoukclub.com.sg
China Square Central Weekend Flea Market
This veteran of the flea market scene offers collectibles and rare antiques (if you’re lucky). Held every Sunday, be ready to dig deep in order to score cool signature pieces for only a few bucks a pop. Worth a look if you’re doing Sunday dumplings in Chinatown!
Where: China Square Central, 18 Cross Street, Singapore 048423
When: Sundays, 11am-6pm
Website: www.chinasquarecentral.com