With the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) just confirming Singapore’s 2026 public holiday dates, it’s the perfect time to start planning how to make the most of your days off in 2026 or on a 2025 public holiday this year. Whether you’re keen to explore iconic attractions like Gardens By The Bay, enjoy cultural festivities in Chinatown or Little India, unwind at Sentosa’s beaches, or discover hidden gems…Singapore offers a vibrant mix of fun activities for every interest to do over public holidays. Here are nine of the best things to do on public holidays in Singapore.
1. Get skilled in a public holiday workshop
Why not consider hands-on activities that blend learning, creativity, and cultural experiences over your next public holiday in Singapore? For instance, there are a number of thrilling workshops like sessions offered by Little Artists Art Studio for all ages, as well as cooking classes themed around local festivals, interactive science workshops, and nature-based experiences such as rooftop farming in places such as The Sundowner, to name a few. Certainly, a memorable and educational thing to do in Singapore.
2. Step inside Jurassic World
Gardens By The Bay’s Cloud Forest is currently home to a pop-up Jurassic World: The Experience. It brings the iconic film franchise to life with large animatronic dinosaurs set amidst lush greenery and misty waterfalls. Highlights include an awe-inspired 8.5-metre-tall Brachiosaurus, face-to-face encounters with a Tyrannosaurus rex, and interactive zones featuring baby dinosaurs, hidden among plant species. It finishes on December 31, 2025. Learn more. Certainly, a top choice for public holidays this year.
📍18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
3. Immerse yourself in deep neighbourhood culture
Locals in Singapore often use public holidays to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant community events. From festive street markets and traditional performances in Chinatown to light-ups in Little India during Deepavali, shopping till you drop along Orchard Road, or discovering the delicious eateries hidden in Tiong Bahru…Singaporeans are spoilt for choice. Certainly, one of the best things to do on public holidays in Singapore.
4. Dive into fun activities on Sentosa Island
What better way to spend your public holiday than with a range of thrilling activities in Sentosa? Whether you’re a child or an adrenaline-loving adult…Sentosa Island is the perfect place to spend a day off with family or friends. From water parks to indoor theme parks, the iconic Minion Land at Universal Studios, and more…you won’t be bored on Singapore’s little island paradise. Get our guide of the best things to do on Sentosa Island.
5. Explore the city’s best new exhibitions
Singapore is always offering a range of exciting exhibitions throughout the year. For instance, some top art exhibitions at the moment are Wonders of Nature at New Art Museum running until October 5, alongside National Gallery’s free exhibitions, Fever’s Van Gogh until July 31, and the immersive Balloon Museum’s Pop Air – Art is Inflatable at Marina Bay Sands until August 31, to name a few. Find out Singapore’s top exhibitions to wander here. Definitely, a visually stunning way to spend a public holiday.
6. Soak up the sun at the beach
Why not use your next sunny public holiday to enjoy a day at the beach? From East Coast Park to the glorious beaches of Sentosa Island…it offers a perfect escape from the city’s urban pace into a relaxing, outdoor environment. Families and friends are often seen picnicking, cycling, and enjoying water sports like wakeboarding in the sea, as well as unwinding under the sun. Particularly, beaches often host lively events and activities during holidays. Discover the best beaches in Singapore. Wonderfully, this activity to totally FREE.
7. Hop across the causeway to JB
Why not take a day trip to Johor Bahru across the causeway? It’s an easy, quick escape offering a rich cultural experiences, diverse shopping, and affordable local food. Visitors can explore historical sites like Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, local markets and malls like Johor Bahru City Square, as well as charming cafes, and cheap massages. Discover the best things to do in Johor Bahru.
8. Learn about the animal kingdom
There are a number of interactive animal experiences in Singapore. Think the likes of Mandai Wildlife reserve with Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, and the iconic Night Safari. For instance, the Singapore Zoo offers more than 2,800 animals, while Night Safari is a unique chance to observe nocturnal wildlife in their natural environment. Additionally, there’s also the new Rainforest Wild Asia which offers an adventure-based experience. Perfect for children and adults! Definitely, one of the best public holidays activities in Singapore.
9. Plan a group dinner at your favourite eatery
Many Singaporeans enjoy gathering with family and friends for special meals over public holidays. Whether it’s cheap eats like laksa and chicken rice at popular hawker centres, enjoying culinary delights at group restaurants, or treating yourself to a meal at Singapore’s top restaurants such as KOMA…you’ll be spoilt for choice.
SEE MORE: The Best Things To Do On Sundays In Singapore