Attention: Dragon enthusiasts in Singapore! Discover dragon-themed playgrounds, books, and events in our ultimate guide. Perfect for little dragon fiends!
While we adore dinos, there’s something enchanting about DRAGONS! From ancient lore to modern fantasy, these mythical creatures have captivated our hearts and minds. They are in stories worldwide and often resemble big, friendly snakes! Dragons first popped up in ancient tales from places like the Near East. You can even spot them in ancient art and stories from Mesopotamia. Throughout many cultures, there are exciting stories about brave heroes facing off against these mighty creatures during wild storms. Dragons are also cherished symbols in the Chinese zodiac.
Did you know you and your budding dragon enthusiast can discover the mystical world of dragons on local shores, from themed playgrounds to books and beyond? We’ve got you covered with a little draggo-spotting right here in Singapore. From playgrounds with majestic dragon sculptures to books that fire up the imagination and some roaring events, we’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to satisfy your little dragon fiends.
Click below to read more:
Dragon playgrounds in Singapore
Dragon tales: Books with dragons
Dragon events in Singapore
Dragon playgrounds in Singapore
1. Toa Payoh Dragon Playground
The playground in Toa Payoh hardly needs any introduction! Built in 1979, it was part of a series of animal-themed playgrounds scattered throughout Singapore’s neighbourhoods. While the other playgrounds have been demolished, this beloved dragon stands strong! This whimsical structure features colourful steel rings for kiddos to climb through, with the dragon head forming a slide.
Where: 28 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh Singapore 310028
2. Baby dragon playground at Toa Payoh
The Baby Dragon playground is the sibling of the iconic Draggo playground! Built in 1985, you’ll be utterly charmed by the retro vibes of the mosiac-style structure. This playground is much smaller; hence, it’s been dubbed “baby dragon playground”. There’s this interesting slide and spiral staircase combo which makes up the neck of the dragon.
Where: Between Blk 240 and 241 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, Singapore 310240
3. Ang Mo Kio Dragon Playground
Again, built in the 1970s, this playground in Ang Mo Kio is another of the series of animal playgrounds! There’s an emphasis on climbing and swinging! Kiddos will have a roaring time on this retro playground.
Where: 570 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 560570
4. Baby Dragon Playground in MacPherson
Yet another retro dragon playground! This is similar in style to the one in Toa Payoh and again promises fun for the kiddos.
Where: 54 Pipit Rd, Block 54, Singapore 370054
5. Dragon Play Sculpture
Inspired by the famed vintage dragon playground, this Dragon sculpture looks like a hoot! While the structure totally eschews conventional playground features lacking slides and gazeboes, its ode to modernity is remarkable!
Kiddos can have loads of fun climbing the dragon structure, and boy, can they work up a sweat on this!
Where: 38 Cleantech Loop, #01-31, Singapore 636741
Dragon Tales: Books with dragons
1. Dragons in Chinatown (Chinese New Year in Singapore) by Valerie Pereira
Follow a little girl as she and her family enjoy all the festivities around Chinese New Year in Singapore. From decorating the home and making pineapple tarts to receiving ang bao and watching a dragon catch a pearl. This charming story with warm and vibrant illustrations reminds us of the importance of family and family traditions.
2. The Great Dragon Warrior by Ng Swee San
Basmi the dragon’s big dream is about to come true! A legendary dragon warrior moves into the cave next door, and Basmi can’t wait to learn from him. But when the warrior finally shows up, Basmi learns a surprising lesson instead!
3. Tiko and his Dragon by Adrian Wong
Tiko and his toy lizard are best buds until he meets a real one. He names it Dragon and persuades his parents to let him keep it. But Tiko gets so caught up in online games that he neglects Dragon. What is to become of Dragon? This colourful tale teaches kids about pet care and the importance of responsibility.
4. The Magic Paintbrush by Brian Seward
All Tony Lee longed for was a little respite amid his endless studying, except he stumbled upon a magical paintbrush. You’ll have to find out what happens next! Set in ancient China, The Magic Paintbrush teaches kids about friendship, creativity, and much more.
Dragon Events in Singapore
1. BeLONG’s Art Playground at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre
BeLONG’s Art Playground at the rooftop of this building is a fun interactive rooftop art installation that celebrates the Year of the Dragon, inspired by Singapore’s iconic HDB dragon playgrounds! There’s a slide, swing, supersized mahjong pieces and dragon art all over the space, accompanied by an amazing view of the marina. This installation is on till 30 April 2024.
Where: SCCC Rooftop Garden, 1 Straits Boulevard, Singapore 018906
2. Prosperity All Year LONG outdoor installation @ Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Don’t miss the photo opp with a Prosperity All Year LONG outdoor installation featuring a pair of auspicious red and orange dragons on the front lawn. Check out the Chinese New Year festivities at the museum, too! These adorable draggos will be up till 25 February 2024, so grab the kiddos and head for some cute photo ops and more.
Where: Front lawn, Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, 12 Tai Gin Rd, Singapore 327874
3. Mystical dragon photo ops at the Projector
Here’s a festive season exclusive! Capture some cute family moments at SayChunkie! Studio’s photobooth at The Projector from now till 25 February – every Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 9pm. Their props include the mystical dragon, lotus flowers and more. All the deets and booking info can be found here. While there, you and the kiddos can also check out special Lunar New Year showings of Turning Red. Check out our review.
Where: The Projector at Cineleisure, 8 Grange Rd, #05-01, Singapore 239695
BONUS: Ever heard of the Dragon’s Beard candy? This sweet treat, AKA Chinese cotton candy, is a regional delicacy that’s quite literally art you can eat. It is called Dragon’s Beard because it resembles a mythical dragon’s wispy beard. Find out more here.
Do you know of any other dragon spots in Singapore? Let us know via [email protected]
