Singapore countdown 2016: Family-friendly fun

MARINA BAY SINGAPORE COUNTDOWN 2016

What: The best event to catch dazzling fireworks set to a specially commissioned orchestral music score is Singapore's annual New Year's Eve celebration presented by the Urban Redevelopment Authority and Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay.

There will be high-energy musical performances at Esplanade's outdoor theatre starting from 7pm.

At the Marina Waterfront Bazaar, which opens at 3pm, party novelties, light gadgets, artisanal items, clothing and snacks will be on sale.

At certain timings from Dec 26 to 31, The Fullerton Hotel's facade will be awash in a splash of colours during a digital art showcase. Singaporeans can also pen their hopes for the future on one of 20,000 wishing spheres, which will be set afloat in Marina Bay from Dec 26 to 31.

Where: Various locations around Marina Bay

When: From 3pm till late

Admission: Free

Info: www.marinabaycountdown. sg

CELEBRATE 2016

What: At Mediacorp's star-studded New Year countdown concert, expect an explosive showcase by headline act Adam Lambert, who is filling in as the lead singer for iconic British rock band Queen, as well as performances by local singers and celebrities, including actors Shane Pow and Ian Fang, the cast of TV series Tanglin and rapper Thelioncity boy.

After the spectacular fireworks display, dance the night away to the pulsating beats spun by DJ Tinc.

Where: The Float @ Marina Bay

When: 8pm till late (doors open at 7pm)

Admission: $38, $88 and $168 from Sistic (excludes booking fee)

Info: toggle.sg/celebrate2016

CLARKE QUAY NEW YEAR'S EVE COUNTDOWN PARTY

What: Make your way down to Clarke Quay for a family-friendly affair. The fountain square at the nightlife hub will be transformed into a circus-cum-carnival on New Year's Eve, with performances by a fire twirler, juggler and music by local band 53A and New Stream Brass Band, a Singapore-based New Orleans-style brass band.

Where: Fountain Square, Clarke Quay

When: 10pm till late

Admission: Free

Info: www.clarkequay.com.sg/nye

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE DANCE IN THE PARK! COUNTDOWN TO 2016

What: Count down to 2016 alongside the theme park's resident characters including the adorable Minions and Sesame Street friends.

Before that, dance alongside LED street dancers and stiltwalkers to hits by singer Jessie J performed by an international tribute act.

Thrill-seekers can go on select rides including favourites such as the Battlestar Galactica: Human vs Cylon.

Where: Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa

When: 5pm to 1.30am

Admission: $38 (child aged four to 12), $48 (adult)

Info: www.rwsentosa.com

COMMUNITY BASHES

What: You do not have to travel far from your house to celebrate New Year's Eve.

The People's Association's (PA) grassroots organisations have organised a wide variety of events to top off the SG50 celebrations.

About 130,000 residents are expected to take part in community celebrations this month that range from large-scale parties to intimate affairs in neighbourhoods.

Residents can check the PA website in the next two weeks for information on the activities.

Where: Various locations islandwide

When: Throughout this month at various timings

Admission: Mostly free though interested attendees are encouraged to check with organisers

Info: www.pa.gov.sg

This article was first published on December 18, 2015.
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