May in Singapore: Your Ultimate Guide to Design Workshops & Creative Events in 2025
Published on May 1, 2025 | by DSGN arcHive
Curious to dive deeper into Singapore’s buzzing design scene? We’ve got the perfect spots lined up just for you.
May has arrived—and it’s bursting with creativity, colour, and culture. Across Singapore, there’s so much to see and do. Think Mothers’ Day celebrations, the return of the vOilah! France Singapore Festival, and plenty more. You’ll find lively fairs, pop-up exhibitions, and hands-on workshops popping up all over the city. Everywhere you turn, there’s something new to discover. From immersive storytelling to bold art installations and unforgettable dining experiences, the vibe is electric. So, whether you’re keen to try something new or just want to soak in the buzz, now’s the time. Singapore’s creative scene is thriving—and we’ve got the scoop on what not to miss.
Scroll down for the full scoop or jump straight to these highlights:
Must-Visit Fairs for Unique Finds
1. Mother’s Day Kindness Weekend
Looking to spoil Mum this Mother’s Day? Head over to Crane Joo Chiat for a special pop-up that’s all about celebrating her in style. It’s a lovely twist on their usual weekend affair—perfect if she enjoys a bit of shopping and discovering local gems. Expect charming booths, hands-on mini workshops, and a lineup of Singapore’s best-loved creators and craftspeople. Whether you’re helping her pick out something pretty for the home or simply giving her space to relax and treat herself, it’s the perfect way to spend the day together. Definitely one to bookmark!
When: 10am-6pm, 10 May to 11 May 2025
Where: Crane, Joo Chiat, 432 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, 427647
2. With Love
Launched in September 2024, this curated pop-up retail space is now entering its final chapter—so don’t miss your chance to explore it before it wraps. Featuring 30 standout brands from Southeast Asia and beyond, the spotlight here is firmly on women-led labels that celebrate intentional craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Whether you’re drawn to founder-led fashion, handcrafted jewellery, or stylish fashion-forward footwear, there’s plenty to browse. From curve-loving collections to elegant accessories, it’s a one-stop spot for gifts with heart.
When: Until 25 May 2025
Where: 23 Keong Saik Road
Performing Arts
3. Singapore International Festival of Arts, SIFA
Singapore’s biggest performing arts festival is back this May—and it’s set to be more exciting than ever. The Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) returns with a bold lineup spanning theatre, music, dance, film, and visual arts. First launched in 1977 as the Singapore Festival of Arts, it has evolved over the years to become a key moment in the city’s cultural calendar. This year’s theme, More Than Ever, celebrates 60 years of Singapore’s independence and the incredible growth of its arts scene. Expect a record number of local commissions, plus free performances at public spots like the SIFA Pavilion at Bedok Town Square and Little SIFA at Empress Lawn. It’s creative, it’s inclusive, and it’s the perfect way to dive into Singapore’s thriving arts community. So round up your crew—it’s time to experience the arts like never before.
Price: Free and paid
When: 16 May – 1 June 2025
Where: Various locations across the island
Festivals
4. VOILAH! France Singapore Festival 2025
Celebrate 60 years of France-Singapore relations at vOilah! 2025, running from April 23 to June 8. This vibrant festival showcases 20 programmes, emphasizing visual, performing, and cinematic arts. A standout is the “City of Others” exhibition at National Gallery Singapore, featuring over 200 artworks and archival materials that shed light on Asian artists in 1920s–1940s Paris. Additionally, “Two Rivers” by photographer Melisa Teo explores the poetic connections between Paris’s Seine and Singapore’s river. French photographer Nicolas Damiens presents “CITY SingaPOP,” capturing Singapore’s iconic landmarks in vibrant hues. Performances like “A French Kiss in Singapore” by Sing’theatre and “Les Arts in Nature” at Gardens by the Bay further enrich the festival. With such diverse offerings, vOilah! 2025 promises enriching experiences for all.
Visit https://www.voilah.sg/ for more information
Price: Includes free and paid admission
When: Until 8 June 2025
5. Singapore Heritage Festival
If you’re looking to connect with Singapore’s roots in a hands-on way, the 22nd edition of the Singapore Heritage Fest is not to be missed. This year’s festival shines a spotlight on Intangible Cultural Heritage—think food traditions, crafts, oral histories, and performances that have shaped our shared identity. There’s so much to explore. Go on guided tours and trails through Chinatown and beyond. Join kueh-making workshops or learn about the kebaya, then try your hand at a hands-on activity right after. Plus, look out for lively exhibitions and performances happening all around the island. It’s fun, it’s meaningful, and it’s a great way to celebrate the living heritage that connects generations of Singaporeans.
Registration is required for some events
Price: Paid and free events
When: Until 25 May 2025
Where: Various locations across the island
Hands-On Workshops and Other Fun Stuff
6. Creative activities at ArtScience Laboratory
Step into ArtScience Laboratory, where art, science, and technology come together in the most inspiring ways! This dynamic learning space invites visitors to explore creativity through hands-on activities and emerging technology. With programmes designed to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, problem-solving, and environmental awareness, there’s always something new to discover. From interactive workshops to sustainability initiatives, every session sparks curiosity and innovation. Whether you’re a student, a family, or just someone eager to learn, there’s a place for you here. Explore *five key themes*—from creative expression to engineering and wellness. Ready to dive in? Visit their page to discover the latest workshops and start exploring!
Price: Mix of Complimentary and Ticketed Programmes
When: Sun – Thu: 11am – 7pm, Fri & Sat: 11am – 9pm
Where: Basement 2, ArtScience Museum
7. Clayful Art Cafe
Looking for a fun way to get creative? Head over to the Clayful Art Cafe on Orchard Road for a unique, hands-on experience. You can pick from a range of ceramic pottery or glassware and let your imagination take over as you paint your own masterpiece. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking for a relaxing activity, this spot has everything you need. It’s the perfect place to unwind, create something special, and enjoy a little me-time.
Price: Studio fee per pax $30, student fee $20; Pottery and glassware pieces start from $8 and add on drinks $5
Where: 181 Orchard Rd., #03-23 Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Top Exhibitions to Explore
8. The LASALLE Show Exhibition 2025
If you’re after a dose of fresh creative energy, don’t miss The LASALLE Show Exhibition. Back for its annual run, this vibrant showcase celebrates the bold ideas and talent of LASALLE’s graduating cohort. With over 600 works on display, you’ll find everything from design and fine arts to film, animation, creative writing, and even art therapy. It’s a brilliant way to explore the next wave of industry-ready creatives, shaped by rigorous, practice-led research and serious skill. Whether you’re a design enthusiast, art lover, or just curious to see what the future of creativity looks like, this exhibition is definitely worth a visit.
Price: Free
When: 23 May–Wed 4 Jun 2025
Where: Various locations, LASALLE’s McNally Campus
9. City of Others: Asian Artists in Paris
Step into the rich artistic history of City of Others, an unmissable exhibition at the Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery. Featuring over 200 artworks—including paintings, sculptures, lacquerware, and decorative arts—alongside 200 archival materials and images, this showcase explores the influence of Asian artists in Paris during a time of global migration. Through their stories, discover diverse creative journeys, cultural exchanges, and groundbreaking artistic connections that shaped the art scene between the 1920s and 1940s. We visited and were completely immersed in the depth of personal struggles and artistic triumphs—you’ll want to set aside at least an hour to take it all in. A must-visit for art lovers and history buffs alike!
Price: Visitors may purchase Special Exhibition Passes via the Gallery’s website at $25 each ($15 for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents)
When: Until 17 August 2025
Where: Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery, National Gallery Singapore
10. Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses
Step into a world where fashion meets innovation at Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses. This breathtaking exhibition showcases the work of a true visionary, pushing the boundaries of design with cutting-edge technology and intricate craftsmanship. Van Herpen’s creations draw inspiration from nature, architecture, and the human form, transforming fashion into wearable art. Each piece reflects movement, metamorphosis, and the limitless possibilities of material and technique. From delicate 3D-printed structures to flowing, sculptural gowns, her designs challenge the very essence of couture. Don’t miss this chance to experience the future of fashion in a way that sparks imagination and wonder.
Price: Start from $18 per pax onwards, Get your tickets here
When: Until 10 August 2025, 10am – 7pm
Where: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
11. Mirror Mirror: Journey Into the Mind
Step into a world of imagination at Mirror Mirror: Journey Into the Mind, an immersive exhibition at ArtScience Museum. This multi-sensory experience blends art, interactivity, and neuroscience, bringing the wonders of human thought to life. Wander through eight striking rooms filled with illusions, vibrant colours, and captivating soundscapes. Each space explores deep themes like consciousness, memory, and identity, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the mind. Engage with installations that respond to your movements, revealing the connection between thought and emotion. Whether you’re curious about the brain or simply love interactive art, this exhibition is a must-see!
Price: Start from $18 per pax onwards, Get your tickets here
When: Until 6 July 2025
Where: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
12. Tulipmania
Looking for something colourful and full of culture? This tulip-themed exhibition is one to catch. It takes you on a journey through the eastern reaches of Türkiye, where wild tulips first bloomed. You’ll spot stunning varieties like Tulipa ‘Fire Wings’, Tulipa ‘Striped Crown’, and so many more. But it’s not just about the flowers.
There’s history woven through every corner. From the legendary Trojan Horse to the ancient site of Göbekli Tepe and the beauty of mosaic art, each piece tells a story. It’s vibrant, immersive, and packed with meaning. So if you’re in the mood for a fresh dose of nature and heritage, this exhibition is well worth a visit.
Price: Click here to secure your tix
When: Until 12 May 2025; 9am – 9pm
Where: Flower Dome, Gardens By The Bay
13. Portals
Portals, a bold new visual arts exhibition at the Battlebox in Fort Canning, reimagines history through a tech-driven lens. Rooted in real stories and archival research, it blurs the lines between past and present, challenging traditional narratives. Showcasing works by seven Singapore-based artists—Anthony Chin, Dongyan Chen, Ernest Wu, Jake Tan, Huijun Lu, Victoria Hertel, and Zul Mahmod—the exhibition explores how technology can reshape the way we see our history. Set within the eerie, history-laden walls of a World War II bunker, once a top-secret war room, Portals transforms the space into a site of reinterpretation and discovery. Visitors are invited to step inside, interact with the artworks, and uncover fresh perspectives on the past. More information on the Portals exhibition, bookings, and upcoming public programs is now available at cmdexe.art and @Battleboxsingapore.
Price: Starts from $20 per pax
When: Until 29 June 2025, Wednesdays – Sundays (incl. Public Holidays) | 10am – 5pm (Last entry 4pm)
Where: Battlebox @ Fort Canning Park, 2 Cox Terrace Singapore 179622
14. Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art
Curious about Singapore’s art journey? Head down to the revamped DBS Singapore Gallery and explore the first part of National Gallery Singapore’s latest long-term exhibition, Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art. Opened on 2 December 2024, this showcase features over 200 stunning art pieces and artefacts spread across four fascinating sections. The first part dives into Singapore’s art history from the 19th century to the 1960s, highlighting pivotal moments like colonialism, independence, and the nation’s early years. Celebrate the works of iconic artists such as Chen Wen Hsi, Georgette Chen, Cheong Soo Pieng, and more. With the full exhibition set to open in July 2025, now’s the perfect time to catch a glimpse of Singapore’s evolving artistic identity!
Price: Admission is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents; From $15 onwards for foreign residents and tourists
When: Ongoing
Where: Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery, City Hall Wing
15. Seeing Forest
Ever wondered how nature and city life intertwine? After making waves at the Singapore Pavilion at Biennale Arte 2024 in Venice, Seeing Forest by Robert Zhao Renhui is back home. Zhao, known for uncovering the mysteries of the natural world, highlights how resilient nature is and how it adapts to human society. Since 1998, his semi-fictional Institute of Critical Zoologists has brought us thought-provoking projects, and this one’s no different. The exhibition dives into how Singapore’s urban design has shaped its ecosystem, creating a mix of migrant species that mirrors the city’s melting pot of cultures. Plus, it explores themes anyone in a big city can relate to. This is one you won’t want to miss!
When: 10am – 7pm, Until 18 May 2025
Where: Level 3, Gallery 3, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark
16. Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship, Peranakan Museum
Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship! This exciting exhibition showcases the incredible story of three Peranakan women from Indonesia: Nyonya Oeij Soen King, her daughter-in-law Nyonya Oeij Kok Sing, and granddaughter Jane Hendromartono. From the 1890s to the 1980s, they made their mark in the batik scene. You’ll discover around 200 stunning batik textiles and other fascinating items that share their journey. As you explore, you’ll see how these talented women adapted to the changes around them, turning batik into both an art form and a successful business. Plus, you can join hands-on workshops, enjoy lively performances, and take part in guided tours. Don’t miss the contemporary art piece by Aiko Tezuka, which beautifully connects fabric and art. It’s a fantastic way to experience Indonesian batik through the vibrant lens of Peranakan culture!
Admission charges apply
When: Until 31 August 2025; Daily, 10am–7pm | Fridays, 10am–9pm
Where: Peranakan Museum
Inspiring Installations
17. Gallery Children’s Biennale 2025: Tomorrow, We’ll Be…
Looking for something fun and meaningful to do with the kids? The Gallery Children’s Biennale 2025 is back—and it’s a must-visit. Held at National Gallery Singapore as part of its 10th anniversary, this year’s edition is all about Joy, Kindness, Love, and Dream. It’s playful, it’s thoughtful, and yes—it’s perfect even for babies! Through colourful, multi-sensory installations by artists from Singapore and around Asia, little ones (and the young at heart) are invited to dream big and express themselves freely. Also, don’t miss Japanese artist Hiromi Tango’s stunning oversized flowers, each with Braille messages of kindness hidden in the petals. So if you’re after a creative day out that’s equal parts fun and inspiring, this one’s well worth a visit.
Price: Free admission
When: 31 May 2025 – 29 Mar 2026
Where: National Gallery Singapore
18. Speaking of which – A pop-up activation
If you’re up for something a little different, check out Speaking of which—a pop-up public art activation by The Everyday Museum. It’s part of the Singapore Heritage Festival 2025, and it’s worth a visit. This one dives into 1950s and 60s Singapore through lesser-known oral traditions and everyday social practices. You’ll see works by artist Wong Lip Chin and the Critical Craft Collective. Plus, there are literary gems by PR&TA and archival finds from the National Library Board. On select weekends, there’s more to explore with special programmes that dig deeper. And if you love audio trails, don’t miss this. Just scan and listen to stories, sounds, and voices that bring each space to life.
Price: Free
When: Until 25 May 2025, 12pm–8pm Daily
Where: Two Pop-up Experiences: Level 1 Urban Park, Guoco Tower & HarbourFront Centre Level 1 Atrium
And that’s a wrap! Keep an eye out for more updates on the coolest creative events happening in Singapore.
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About DSGN arcHive
DSGN arcHive is your exclusive key to unveiling the enigmatic essence of a city, all filtered through the prism of design. Far from the ordinary tourist paths. We reveal the city’s architectural marvels, urban intricacies, cultural tapestry, and eco-conscious revolutions that mold its distinctive soul. With us, you’re invited to savor the metropolis in an entirely chic and sophisticated light, a city that’s far more than what meets the eye.
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