Not sure what to do for the November & December school holidays in Singapore? Fear not – we've got loads of fab ideas to keep the kids entertained over the break!
If you’re currently looking at an empty calendar for the November and December school holidays (from 16 November to 31 December 2024) and worrying about how you’re going to entertain the kids, then don’t fret. Fill up your weekends, and for during-the-week fun, we’ve got you (and the kids) covered with everything to do for the school holidays in Singapore.
We’ve found loads of things to keep the kids busy, whether that’s at home or out and about. From exhibits to theatre, and our favourite parks or green space. So take a look, and get filling up your Singapore December school hols itinerary with these fun-filled activities for the whole family. Happy holidays!
That’s not all, be sure to tune into our HoneyKids Asia Podcast on tried-and-tested ways to keep the kiddos entertained during the school holidays:
You can also tune in via Apple podcasts.
60+ things to do with the kids for the December school holidays in Singapore
1. Get a free plush keychain at S.E.A. Aquarium
Swim away with a cute plush keychain with every purchase of a S.E.A. Aquarium child ticket (from $31) from now until 30 November 2024. Kids can choose from a manta ray, sea jelly, or octopus keychain and trust us, they’re super adorable!
Fun fact: just like our unique fingerprints, manta rays are differentiated by the patterns on their underbellies — try spotting the different markings on the bellies of these gentle giants in S.E.A. Aquarium’s Open Ocean Habitat. Keep a lookout for the elegant sea nettles too, which have long flowy tentacles full of stinging cells. In fact, they’re carnivorous and feed on zooplankton and smaller sea jellies.
P.S. Did you know that S.E.A. Aquarium is actually one of the world’s largest aquariums, and a vast array of marine animals across 1,000 species reside there? Learn more about these fascinating animals, and even catch a daily shark feeding. Don’t miss the chance to be a Junior Ocean Detective for the day (additional charges apply), where you’ll uncover marine mysteries during a two-hour workshop.
2. Sign the kids up for a holiday camp!
We love holiday camps – they’re perfect for keeping the little ones entertained while getting a dose of learning during the summer break. One of our readers’ top faves is Camp Asia, a three-time gold winner of our Love Local Awards 2024. On top of offering one of the widest selections of camp activities (from dragon boat paddling to coding and even a Space Cadet theme camp), this camp provider is loved by parents for its exceptional quality. We’re talking about highly experienced instructors, world-class camp facilities, and convenience through its extensive bus network (top-up required). So do keep an eye out for Camp Asia’s holiday camps; they’re usually held four times a year: spring camps around March or April, June to August for summer camps, September or October for fall camps, and winter camps in December till the following January. Slots tend to run out fast, so do register ASAP to get your kid theirs!
3. Check out the newest Harry Potter event in Singapore!
Get ready for Harry Potter: Visions of Magic at Resorts World Sentosa, opening on 22 November 2024! This massive 40,000-square-foot magical playground offers kids a thrilling holiday adventure into the wizarding world’s largest interactive experience yet. Explore enchanting new areas like the Chamber of Secrets, where whispers fill the walls, and The Trap Door, a maze of spellbound chambers guarding hidden treasures. Still feel like getting up to more magic? Check out our guide on finding all things Potteriffic in Singapore.
4. Enjoy some free water play
Looking for ways to beat the heat? One of our favourite things to do is water play, made even better when it’s FREE! Luckily, Singapore has no shortage of water play areas, from those atop shopping malls to the ones near HDB estates; make sure you go through our list of free water play spots to visit with the kids!
5. Get immersed in a whole new world of bubbly fun at Bubble Planet
With 11 uniquely themed areas including a huge bubble bath ball pit and a super cool virtual reality room, Bubble Planet will officially open its doors on 2 September 2024 – just in time for the September school holidays! This multi-sensory experience is also very Instagrammable so make sure to snap some pics with the kiddos and make the school holidays memorable! Check out what went down when we visited!
6. Marvel at the incredible displays at Art of the Brick
Yes, LEGO is a great toy for the kiddos to build with and use their creativity. But when you take a look at the displays at Art of the Brick, you’ll be able to appreciate how LEGO can really be used to create art. From recreating famous art pieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to a six-metre-long reproduction of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, get ready to be blown away by the 150+ works of art – plus there’s even a play area for the little ones if they suddenly feel inspired to start building something right there and then! Here’s an Instagram sneak peek.
7. Visit a Christmas market with the kiddos
The festive season is hot on our heels. How about heading on down to a Christmas themed market or bazaar happening this period. Think artisanal, one-of-kind gifts and unique finds. What’s in it for the kiddos? Well, they too can find some unique finds and take part in any kid-friendly activities happening.
8. Visit Singapore’s best HDB playgrounds
Singapore is awesome when it comes to playgrounds, and we’re not just talking about the big, well-known park playgrounds. We are also huge fans of hidden HDB playground gems! We are talking about Alice in Wonderland playgrounds to dinos galore- Yay! Who knew, right? Check out our lists of some of the best HDB playgrounds in Singapore and where to find the iconic dragon playgrounds to amp up your playground bucket list.
9. Head to the theatre with these new shows and live performances
We love live performances, so how about taking the kids to see musicals and theatre shows this school holidays? Here’s what’s on at the theatre that’s kid-approved. Keep checking the site for our latest reviews and updates on new performances!
10. Head to KidZania!
KidZania Singapore is back and better than ever! After closing during Covid, this ‘kids city’ has reopened with new brands and experiences. We got an exclusive sneak peek, and it’s more exciting than ever! Check out our guide to KidZania to maximize your experience and earn plenty of Kidzos! Tickets start at $41 (babies under one year old enter free). Pssst… Prices vary based on crowd demand, so book in advance for the best deals!
11. Be inspired at the National Gallery Singapore Revamped Keppel Centre for Art Education
National Gallery Singapore’s Keppel Centre for Art Education has eight new interactive learning zones, providing little ones with exciting opportunities to connect with art through play and creativity. Explore vibrant spaces inspired by the Gallery’s artworks and let children express their creativity on digitised canvases – make sure to check out the Makers Studio, which gives kids (and adults!) the chance to try 3D Doodling and make sculptures with the wooden pieces available. The best part is it’s entirely FREE to enter, regardless of citizenship!
12. Visit a pet cafe
Whether you and your family are feline fans or dog lovers, teaching your kids how to interact with animals plays a huge role in helping them learn responsibility and empathy. Before you give in to demands for a pet from the kids and decide on adopting a four-legged friend, make a trip down to these popular dog or cat cafes in Singapore! Unwind over coffee, fawn at cute critters and get cuddles!
13. Visit a kid-friendly bookstore
Attention all bookworms! We’ve got the ultimate guide to the best bookstores all over Singapore. Have you ever heard of the saying, ‘readers are made on their parents’ laps’? The more you read, the more kiddos read, so how about stocking up some great reads for both of you at these literary havens? Whether you’re a seasoned reader, casual browser, compulsive book buyer or someone looking for a cosy spot to lose yourself in the wonder of words, you’ll need to bookmark this list of bookstores. Some of these places also serve a cuppa or more!
14. Feast at kid-friendly restaurants and cafes
Check out our list of the best kid-friendly restaurants by location across the length and breadth of Singapore: the child-tolerant places where parents can finish a good hot meal in (relative) peace. Psst, we’ve even put together a list of the best kids eat free deals in Singapore! You’re most welcome!
15. Future World: Where Art Meets Science
Kit out the fam and hit the Art Science museum to check out Future World: Where Art Meets Science. There are tons of digital-interactive installations that the kiddos will want to try their hand at (over and over again). Visitors can expect to explore two sections in the exhibition, including City in A Garden and Exploring New Frontiers.
16. Have breakfast with the zoo animals
Indulge in a hearty meal of local and international delights while sitting through a 30-minute presentation featuring orangutans, macaws, tamandua, coatimundis, and reptiles. There’s a free-and-easy interaction area where you can meet the animals and their care team, as well as photo points to capture those memories as keepsakes. Breakfast in the Wild is available from 9am to 10.30am on weekends and public holidays – check out our sneak peek! Make sure to also check out other cool dining experiences for kids!
17. Try out some super fun (and free) sporty activities!
Here’s something special for all you sports fans – Decathlon has put together an exciting line-up of sports activities where kids can explore their sports interests and learn about team dynamics and IQ through sports. Psst, there’s also something in store for the whole fam!
18. Go on a Lego-tastic hunt across Singapore
The little red dot is absolutely crazy about Lego, making it a nation of Lego enthusiasts with a treasure trove of Lego-themed adventures for both kids and adults! And if you’ve got Lego-crazy kids in your crew (who doesn’t?), there’s a good chance they’re already budding tinkerers, just itching to let their creative juices flow. So, why not make this school break a Lego-filled extravaganza? Dive into our super helpful listicle to discover all the Lego-tastic fun awaiting you. Get ready for some building excitement!
19. Check out some cool, family-friendly immersive experiences
Curious about the hype around immersive experiences? Discover the coolest immersive adventures in Singapore, from Harry Potter exhibits to dinosaur encounters! These immersive experiences make you actively participate in meticulously designed settings using cutting-edge technology like VR goggles. Perfect for all ages, these adventures offer unforgettable family fun. Here are some must-see immersive experiences in Singapore!
20. Try VR gaming with your teens
There’s been lots of new VR gaming experiences popping up around Singapore in recent times – using a set of VR goggles and controllers, you’ll be fully immersed in a new world and experience you could only imagine in real life. Now combine this with gaming and you’ve got yourself something new to do this school holidays, no matter what type of game you enjoy. There are even kid-friendly games to check out so add this to the list of activities to try with the kids!
21. Visit Legoland Malaysia
23. Visit a fire station
If your little ones love to dress up as firefighters, they are going to love visiting a local fire station to see a real-life fire truck! Plus, fire stations are open to the public on Saturday mornings, so little ones can meet their heroes. Visitors can go on guided tours to meet firefighters and paramedics and learn how the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responds to emergencies. Check the SCDF website for more details.
24. Try an art class
Nothing brightens up a day like some art and crafts! But while it’s always nice to get crafty with the kids at home, wouldn’t it be great if you could take a break from scraping paint off your coffee table? We say, let your mini-Banksy get a real-life art lesson from one of Singapore’s art teachers instead! These art studios around Singapore let your toddlers, kids and teens get messy and busy to their heart’s content. Oh, and some even offer art jam classes for adults, too (perfect for date night!).
25. Light up the nights at a dazzling light show
Treat yourself and the whole family to Wings of Time, a fun nighttime experience. Be mesmerised by a multi-sensory water display, laser show, fireworks and music as you soar through space and time in a magical adventure! You should also check out Spectra, which is happening again at Marina Bay, and don’t forget our firm favourite, Garden Rhapsody – the whole family will love the music and lights shining amidst the Supertrees.
26. Swing, spin, splash – get some friends together and have an arty party!
Art jamming is a trend we’re loving, as not only does it get the kid’s creative juices going, but they can bring home something to keep as well! The whole family can enjoy these art sessions. Choose from decorating your own tote bags or canvas prints, swing and splash sessions, or glow-in-the-dark neon paints!
27. Cool science stuff at Science Centre Singapore
Science Centre Singapore is always a great day out for the kids, and it just got better with the Smart Nation Playscape exhibition. Through its tech zones, you’ll get a glimpse into future technology and its role in developing Singapore. There’s also a cool opt-in personalised experience, where you can collect digital stamps and take a snapshot of your journey and receive a ‘PlayScape Passport’ via email to remember your digital escapade! Besides this, don’t miss out on heaps of fun workshops for the kids, science shows and demonstrations, and even catch Omni-Theatre digital movies.
28. Party on a yacht!
Here’s an idea for a fuss-free getaway: rent a yacht and enjoy a little ride with the kiddos! Find out about all the kid-friendly options available.
29. Go horseriding in Singapore
If you’re looking to escape the high-rise city life of Singapore this school holiday, head out to one of the stables for some horse riding! From Bukit Timah Saddle Club to Gallop Stables and more, you can let the kids take a pony ride, as well as opt for a feeding session with the horses!
30. Get your skates and surf on
Have you heard about Trifecta by The Ride Side, a sports centre in Orchard? Spanning 49,611 square feet, equivalent to the size of four Olympic swimming pools. This place is a one-stop destination where you and your fam can surf, ski, and skate, regardless of the weather. It’s a game-changer!
31. Explore Johor Bahru just across the border
Need a quick and easy getaway with the fam? Read our guide to kid-friendly things to do in the popular shopping town of Johor Bahru, just across Singapore’s border. From the best kid-friendly spots like theme parks and nature reserves to malls and supermarkets, you can get your family there in about an hour – no air travel required!
32. Visit Bintan, just an hour away by ferry
Less than an hour away by ferry, Bintan is great for a short trip from Singapore. Check out our top picks of the best Bintan resorts for families for a luxurious holiday at the beach!
33. Check out Singapore’s awesome MRT stations
If you’ve got kids who are absolutely thrilled by high-octane locomotive action, we’ve got a cool suggestion for you. Take out those MRT maps, check out our super handy guide highlighting the best designed MRT stations all around the little red dot, and get ready for a fantastic adventure. Embark on a journey to explore the island while riding its most popular mode of transport – it’s a surefire way to make some amazing memories. So go ahead, let the excitement unfold and enjoy every moment of the ride!
34. Sign up for a speech and drama class
We totally enjoy catching a movie with the kids every now and then. And you know what? The fantastic stage shows, productions, and musicals in Singapore have us hooked too. If you’ve ever thought about introducing the little ones to the magic of theatre, those performing art programs in schools are just the ticket. Or why not enrol them in a drama and theatre class for kids right here in Singapore? We’ve put together a list of some of the coolest drama schools for just that. Check it out!
35. Host a super slumber party
How about throwing an exciting slumber party for the little ones this school holiday? We’ve got your back with our handy guide. Whether it’s putting together a guest list or decking out the place with fancy decorations, we’ve got all the bases covered to make planning a slumber party a total breeze. So go ahead, start planning and have a blast!
36. Book a staycation
This school holiday, level up your family staycations! Scroll through our list of amazing staycation hotels in Singapore – some let kids stay free, have the best kids’ pools and offer cool kid-focused activities!
37. Check out a museum or two!
You can check out one of the many kid-friendly museums across Singapore in person this school hols! Head on down and be wowed by technology at ArtScience Museum or take in a whole lot of history and art at Asian Civilisations Museum! Our recommendation? Head to the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum and check out the dinosaurs!
38. Get outdoors and visit a farm!
Who knew that Singapore had such a big selection of farms! Yep, you don’t need to head too far out of the city, and you’ll be in beautiful Kranji and farm country! Choose from Jurong Frog Farm, Hay Dairies, Bee Amazed Garden, or dine on some hearty farm-to-table fare at Bollywood Farms! Parents, you’d definitely want to check out The Sundowner, a rooftop farm experience located at Siglap…
39. Have a jump at a trampoline park!
Trampolining is a great way to tire out the kids, so if you have overactive littles that need to burn energy fast, then book one of these trampoline parks this holiday to wear them out!
40. Unleash your inner speed demon
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then get ready to unleash your speed demon at some of these fun places across the island. Take HyperDrive at in Sentosa for example, this gamified indoor go-kart experience has three levels and 14 thrilling turns that’s bound to get you wanting for more!
41. Try your hand at fishing or prawning!
Have you always wanted to fish your own catch (or pet)? We’ve found a few places where your younglings can try their hand at longkang fishing, a hobby popular with the locals back in the 50s and 60s. Otherwise, head down to D’Best Recreation, the largest saltwater fishing pond in Singapore. While kids attempt to fish or go multiple rounds of prawning, the adults can take a breather at the bars and restaurants within the area.
42. Try sustainable fishing at Bedok Jetty
While we’re on the topic of fishing, how do you know if you’ve caught a rare fish and, inadvertently, disrupted the country’s marine biodiversity? Enter FishX, a series of youth-led workshops where new and seasoned fisherfolk can learn how to fish sustainably and responsibly while contributing to marine conservation science. All fishing equipment will be provided, so all you need to do is turn up!
43. Hit the park!
One of our favourite things to do with the kids? Hit the park! From West Coast Park to Pasir Ris Park and all the parks in between, there are many green spaces to explore with the kids. Check out our ultimate park guide and pick your faves for guaranteed school holiday fun!
44. Beat the heat with an ice cream-making sesh
The all-famous Singapore heat is hard to beat, but we know just the thing to get the fam cooling off in a flash. Sign up for an ice cream-making sesh at Carrara and get the full scoop on ice cream-making from scratch! Best part? You will get to take home two flavours of ice cream you make at the workshop and a few easy recipes to try at home. Super cool! If heading out isn’t your thing, how about a family-friendly, nice cream-making session at home? Get your food processors out and try out our round-up of ‘nice cream’ recipes that are guilt-free and packed with all those nutrients for our growing folks. Here’s to a lickin-good holiday!
45. Have a daycation over in Sentosa!
Sentosa is the place to head if you’re looking to have a fun-filled fam day out. From the dizzy heights of the cable car to get there, to all-out good times at Universal Studios Singapore, and then there’s the beach. On second thoughts, maybe you’ll need a week to do it justice. Staycation, anyone?
46. Go island hopping!
What about exploring the islands of Singapore for a change of scenery? Step back in time over to Pulau Ubin and check out the last surviving kampong. Looking for a new beach? Have Lazarus Island on your list. You can also hop on a ferry from Sentosa Cove to Lazarus Island! Finally, for easy-peasy island exploring (with no ferry needed), walk across to Coney Island via Punggol Promenade Nature Walk!
47. Explore more of Singapore on one of these heritage trails
We’re always looking for new places in Singapore to explore, and thankfully, the good folks at the National Heritage Board have just the thing up their sleeve – heritage trails! From Chinatown to Haji Lane, learn a new thing or two about Singapore’s history and heritage this weekend!
48. Go on a wildlife hunt in Singapore’s nature reserves
Although Singapore may feel all skyscrapers and concrete at times, we still have plenty of pretty parks and green patches alongside our urban jungle. And with that glorious green comes glorious wildlife! We’re not talking run-of-the-mill shrews and squirrels here: pangolins, otters and crocs; we’re looking at you! So get those wellies on and your binoculars at the ready, for a good spot with the brood!
49. Get creative with these crafting tutorials
Looking to keep the kids occupied indoors? Then check out a crafting tutorial or two! You don’t need to look far; thankfully, the internet is our friend with a whole host of ideas just waiting to be tried. Head on over to DIY – its instructional videos are easy enough for the kids to follow, and they’re fun, too. Another great option to check out is Creative Bug’s many classes online. Want to impress the older kids? We say opt for a make your own slime or playdough session – a winner for all ages!
50. Grab a basket and have a picnic
All kids (and grown-ups, for that matter) love the novelty of a picnic. Grab your fave snacks, sandwiches and the essential picnic blanket and you’re away! If you are heading off to your favourite park, check out our guide of fab picnic accessories to complete the spread.
51. Treat the fam to afternoon tea!
How about a treat for all the fam this school hols? We say book an afternoon tea and indulge in scones, cream and jam. Psst – some even offer fab takeaway options if you fancy the sweet and savoury delights without heading out!
52. Book a chalet for the fam
No travel plans? No problem – just make a holiday of it here in SG! With so many super options available right here in Singapore, you’ll think you made it to Bali after all. Check out our guide to family-friendly chalets in Singapore– good luck picking!
53. Soak up holiday vibes at the beach!
What better way to fill the hols than hitting the beach? And good news, there are loads of options in sunny Singapore. From Sentosa’s fun-filled white sands to getting away from it all in Kusu Island. Yep, you might have to omit those tankers from your line of vision, but otherwise, you can sit back and pretend you’re in Thailand! Remember to pack the sunscreen! Due to the recent oil spill, do check the NEA website for updates on the sea water quality of the affected beaches.
54. Explore the Park Connector Network!
It’s not just the parks that you should have on your bucket list this school holiday; you need to check out the Park Connector Network (PCN) too! Covering a distance of over 300 km (wow!), the PCN connects some of the best parks in Singapore with one another, so no need to traipse along roads to get between them. They are also perfect for scooting, biking or walking territory in their own right too!
55. Get scooting at one of these spots!
Want some outdoorsy fun? Pack the scooter and head off to one of these fab scooter-approved destinations. It’s perfect for getting the kids active this school hols. From Punggol Waterway Park in the east to Jurong Lakeside Garden in the west, there are fab spots to scoot all over Singapore!
56. Explore a new ‘hood!
From Chinatown to Joo Chiat, and don’t forget fam fave Holland Village. There’s a heap of neighbourhoods to explore in SG this school holiday. Add a few to your list, and you’ll see a new side of SG in no time!
57. Visit the library
Singapore offers some pretty special libraries that are sure to impress the kids. We love the fancy facilities and great reading nooks at library@harbourfront, where you can definitely while away the hours and get some new reads! Or, if you want new books to permanently add to your bookshelf, then check out our fave kid-friendly bookstores. NLB also has a host of specially curated events over the holiday period for kiddos of all ages. Find out more here!
58. Climb new heights this school holidays!
We all know that the kids need to burn energy over the hols, and we think we’ve found the perfect activity – rock climbing! Besides burning tonnes of energy, rock climbing is actually a workout mentally and will teach kids as young as four years to hone their motor skills, flexibility and logical thinking. Win, win!
59. Head to one of the biggest indoor playground chains in Singapore
60. Try a new board game
If you’ve overdone the screen time, then how about taking it back to old-school fun with a board game? Yes, there will be arguments, but it’s all a bit of fun, right?! From classics like Risk to new faves Like Sushi! Go! There’s a board game for everyone!
61. Knock down some pins and go bowling
A bit of friendly competition and a snazzy pair of shoes is sure to liven up the hols, and there are some amazing kid-friendly bowling alleys in Singapore to put your bowling to the test!
62. Go on holiday!
The difficult part of planning a holiday is deciding which location to pick – with tons of city breaks and beach options! Will it be exploring the sights in Seoul or checking out a beach in Thailand? If you are looking for a mini break, check out our guide to Vietnam, a dreamy getaway to Nikoi Island, take a road trip to Genting, or pop to Rawa Island – with everything you need to know about how to keep the brood entertained. Get packing people… you’ve got a plane/boat to catch!
63. Head to a weekend market with the kiddos
Thinking of shopping sustainably? Try heading to fleas or markets where you can get yourselves some cutesy art or fun stuff from makers or sellers directly.
64. Head to Terminal 2, Changi Airport
You don’t have to have an airplane ticket to hit up Changi Airport! Head over with the kiddos for some fun over the weekend during the school hols. The new revamp at Terminal 2 will have you in awe!
65. Head to a nature playground
Move over traditional playgrounds! Singapore’s nature playgrounds offer fun and learning for kids and adults alike! What exactly are they? Unlike your typical playground with neon slides and swing sets, nature playgrounds blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering unique, adventurous experiences. Head on over for some serious outdoor fun!
66. And don’t forget this bucket list of attractions!
Still need more ideas this school holiday? We’ve put together the ultimate bucket list of fam-fave SG attractions that you can work your way through! After outdoor ideas in particular? We’ve got a separate guide for that, with a whopping 100 ideas. Indoors? That’s covered, too. You’re welcome!
67. Tune in to The HoneyKids Asia Podcast for more ideas
If you’re still seeking more ideas to keep your little ones entertained, we’ve put together some helpful episodes on The HoneyKids Asia Podcast. Our hosts, Ange and Syaz, cover everything to see, do, and experience in Singapore during the school holidays. From the top spots to take your kids on weekends to their favourite family-friendly restaurants in the Little Red Dot. Don’t miss out – give it a listen!
And that’s not all! For more ways to keep the kids busy during the school holidays in Singapore, check out our ideas for what to do this weekend!