Find your sparkle with Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay

This year’s edition features dazzling new light displays and a return of crowd favourites.

Do you feel it in the air yet? As the end of the year approaches, festive decorations and jolly soundtracks everywhere signal that Christmas is about to arrive.

As somewhat of an iconic event in Singapore’s holiday lineup, Christmas Wonderland returns for its eighth edition to Gardens by the Bay, from Dec 3 to Jan 2. The stellar programme of stunning light displays, carnival games and festive market, as well as the chance to have a photo with Santa, might be the reasons why it has attracted some 4.8 million visitors since 2014.

This year’s presentation ups the ante with dazzling new festive offerings set to impress, and features immersive themes that will transport you to the traditional holiday markets of Europe. 

SEE CHRISTMAS IN A WHOLE NEW LIGHT

The most splendid of the light displays – the Spalliera – is reaching new heights this year. At 20.5m tall (approximately seven storeys), it shines with a vibrant presentation akin to frozen fireworks in the night sky. Handmade in Italy, the design takes inspiration from the circular rose windows found in Europe's gothic churches, and will undoubtedly be the highlight of many Insta-worthy pictures.

Continue your journey with seven other illuminated displays, each with its own unique characteristics for distinct photo opportunities. The new Walk of Stars, presented by GrabPay, is a 44m-long tunnel made dynamic with thousands of programmable hue-shifting star-shaped LED lights. Every snap will offer a different vibe as you stand under the lit canvas. The other exhibit by GrabPay is the Enchanted Bridge. The 7.7m-tall structure comprising 100,000 LED lights forms a picturesque scene as it stands over a glowing lake. 

Fancy a ride? Hop on the Magical Carriage presented by The Tiara Society. This pretty vehicle makes for whimsical pictures, and will surely fulfil your princess dream. Be sure to strike a pose under the Merry Arch by Zenyum – designed to frame your photos in the most captivating way with its imaginative structure.

Look out, too, for Santa’s Sleigh and Ornament Ball, as well as a special BMW Joy Electrified display at the Supertree Grove, where one can view up-close the new BMW iX and iX3 cars.

AUTHENTIC EVERGREENS

In addition to stunning light spectacles, the organisers of Christmas Wonderland are bringing back much-loved classics that warm the hearts of visitors every year.

Mistletoe Alley Market returns with its European-style festive huts, filled with unique gift ideas to let you #StartSomethingPriceless with Mastercard. The DFS Christmas Huts are where you can get premium chocolates, artisanal teas, and toys for those Christmas stockings. Of course, this is also the place to stock up on wines and spirits for that festive gathering.

Or how about some handmade love with a free workshop? Let your children learn about hygiene and sustainability all at once by signing them up for a sustainable dough soap-making class at Fawn Labs’ hut.

From hand-poured candles and reed diffusers at Candescent Box to halal meatballs, bubble tea and desserts from caterer Sofnade, you’ll be hopping hut to hut to discover the many offerings, including those from Goodwood Park Hotel, Zenyum, Cosmose and Dollop Photobooths. And if you wish to preserve this year’s memories, the Happy Hut offers exclusive Christmas Wonderland official merchandise.

No Christmas is complete without a visit from Santa, so have your children stop by the La Casa di Santa Claus presented by Livingcare. This Christmas Wonderland tradition will make for a fond photo memory – no matter if one’s been naughty or nice.  

CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL CHEER

You’ve got the lights, now here comes the vibes. Throwing up some nostalgia in the most dramatic of ways is the Venetian double-storey carousel – a favourite across all ages. As you sail past the crowds on the ornate horses, have a closer look at the elaborate details of the ride, hand-painted by artists and made by skilled craftsmen in Europe.

If you’re hoping to win over the heart of your date, flex your skills at the many carnival game stalls. No Squid Game here – but have a go at old-school challenges such as fishing and darts, or rack up some points with the blockbuster and bowling stations to snag some instant prizes. Afterwards, stroll onwards to the Supertree Grove and enjoy the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show to wrap up the romantic evening.

Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay happens from Dec 3 to Jan 2, and tickets start from S$7 (only available online). Visitors can opt for any of the four hourly timeslots – between 6:30pm and 10:30pm daily. Do remember to adhere to prevailing government guidelines and safe management measures to enjoy a safe visit.

Save up to 30 per cent when you book your Christmas Wonderland tickets early.