January is one of the most exciting months to visit Singapore. The year starts off with a slew of popular arts events with the likes of Light to Night Civic District Festival and Singapore Art Week. Fans of visual arts can look forward to a stellar collection of artworks featuring Singapore and Southeast Asian art along with multi-disciplinary arts and lifestyle programmes that enliven the Civic District. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, there are plenty of things to see and do in Singapore in January 2026.
A young city with rich multiculturalism influences, January in Singapore is a perfect opportunity to catch the Pongal festival in Little India. Over at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, you can glean insights into the world of traditional Chinese medicine through its heritage and health practices. It’s also the perfect time for music and sports events. Concerts and international tournaments bring energy to the city, while markets and neighbourhoods provide authentic local experiences. Singapore in January 2026 has something for everyone, whether you’re exploring culture, food, or entertainment.
Here’s a guide to the top events and festivals you shouldn’t miss in Singapore this January.
1) Little India
Little India transforms into a vibrant celebration of the South Indian harvest festival. Streets are adorned with colourful kolams, and temples host traditional rituals. Visitors can savour festive treats like sweet pongal, vadai, and murukku while enjoying exciting cultural activities for visitors and local communities. Pongal lets you observe Singapore’s Indian heritage first hand and customs that make this festival unique.
Explore the healing powers of traditional chinese medicine through herbs, acupuncture techniques, and holistic wellness practices at the Healing Heritage exhibition. Interactive displays allow you to try your hand at understanding remedies and learn how ancient practices continue to influence healthcare in Singapore.
Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse with a spectacular orchestral performance. Headlined by Singapore’s only full-time professional Chinese orchestra, Singapore Chinese Orchestra, the Rhapsodies of Spring 2026 sells out quickly and is a well-loved SCO signature programme that blends traditional instruments with contemporary compositions, creating a lively and immersive concert experience.
Preparations for Chinese New Year begins in January in the leads up to the event in mid February. This is a good time to visit Singapore and soak in the festive atmosphere. Amble through the night market of Chinatown and suss out a dizzying selection of delicious sweets and delicacies. For a fun cultural immersion, sign up for our Private street food tour of Chinatown and Little India and let our local guides share from their personal experiences of the Lunar New Year as you learn the customs and traditions among the Singaporean Chinese communities.
If you’re a fan of timeless soft rock, Air Supply’s 50th Anniversay World Tour in Singapore is not to be missed. Catch Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock live on 4 January 2026 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, performing the beloved hits like “All Out of Love”, “Making Love Out of Nothing at All.” and more.
From 22 to 31 January, the Singapore Art Week takes over the city with a creative lineup of exhibitions, programmes and art installations in galleries, museums, and public spaces. Participate in hands-on workshops, discover local talent, and experience new ways of seeing and experiencing art. Our top pick is The Print Show Singapore by Singapore Tyler Print Institute that documents the practices of important contemporary artists that offers visitors a special opportunity to delve deeper into this enduring medium.
Massive light projections, stunning installations and programs transform everyday spaces into extraordinary canvases for audiences to interact with. This annual festival extravaganza turns the museum district into a mesmerizing wonderland of art, food and lifestyle. A special highlight to include in your list of things to see and do in Singapore this January! Come alone on a relaxed photography trail or partake in the festivities with family and friends!
Catch the fast-paced excitement of rugby sevens action at the National Stadium. A great opportunity to see international players, including Olympic gold medalists from France and New Zealand. Beyond the match, there are family challenge zones, children’s play zones and rugby activities that is great for kids and families!
January 2026 in Singapore is a bustling travel season, packed with exciting events alongside the city’s top attractions and fascinating museums. It’s the perfect time to join our Private Custom Walking Tour with a local guide, offering insights into Singapore beyond the usual sightseeing. Contact us to find out more and plan your personalized experience!