With Singapore’s 53rd birthday just around the corner, you may be feeling the patriotic pinch by now. And sure, we’ve got plenty of homegrown fashion and accessory brands that range from edgy to elegant, but once you’ve become a regular at those hip hangouts, you’ll be wanting more of that distinctive Singapore style.
That’s where these free-to-enter pop-up artisan markets come in. They’re a great way to find local brands, designers, and craftsmen that we may not have otherwise come across. Plus, if we’re getting nitpicky about it — supporting local talent is probably a better way to celebrate Singapore than simply donning red and white threads… right?
Anyway, stroll through these upcoming events for your dose of National Day retail therapy.
Carouselland
The massive indoor marketplace by Carousel returns for the National Day weekend with 400 booths hawking new and pre-loved goods. Set to the theme of “Trails & Treasures”, this event is where you can hunt for vintage fashion, retro trinkets, and quirky gifts.
For a good dose of #LocalPride, check out workshops and sharing sessions by up-and-comers and top dogs on our creative scene – from content creators and brand owners to artists and photographers.
Aug 11-12, noon-9pm at Marina Bay Sands, Exhibition Halls A & B.
Made in SG: Creator’s Market
The second Creator’s Market by co-working space WeWork sets up shop along Robinson Road, with participating brands such as Sojao, The Work Room, Pew Pew Patches, Concrete Everything, Kindred Teas, Hush Candles, Ang Ku Kueh Girl, A.Muse Projects, and loads more. Plus, local musicians Shak and Aarika Lee & The Next Movement will be on hand to provide the beat backdrop.
Aug 4, 11am-5pm at WeWork 71 Robinson.
Power Station Art Market
For one electrifying night only, the Singapore Land Authority unlocks the abandoned Pasir Panjang Power Station for an open house, in collaboration with The Local People’s Art Market. Besides this unique opportunity for you to get a glimpse of the former power station, the event will showcase retail booths, music gigs, and art installations.
As you munch on bites from Popaganda, The Better Half, and The Travelling C.O.W., groove to melodies by Shirlyn + The UnXpected, The Apex Project, Lunarin, and Ginette Chittick, check out 10 “caged art” exhibitions, and contribute at a food donation drive for Food from the Heart. Those interested to help the underprivileged can bring non-perishable foods such as instant beverages, canned items, and condiments.
Aug 22, noon-midnight at Pasir Panjang Power Station.
The Local People x PUB: National Day Celebrations
For an unobstructed view of fireworks lighting up the night sky, head over to Marina Barrage on National Day itself for a day of festivities, with carnival games and rides, music performances, and food trucks to keep you well fed and entertained.
Those who never miss a National Day Parade can catch this year’s one, which will be screened live, after you’ve shopped your heart out and emptied your wallet for artworks, fashion pieces, and other trinkets made by local craftsmen.
Aug 9, 11am-9pm at Marina Barrage.
Twilight: Flea & Feast “Proudly Local”
The indoor bazaar’s third edition boasts a local lovin’ theme, with over 100 stalls displaying street food, apparel, accessories, designs, and crafts by homegrown F&B and retail brands. To get into the spirit of things, the entire space will also be covered in props and decorations inspired by popular local icons.
If you need a break from carrying all those shopping bags, then good news — you’ve got options: You can settle into a seat for one of the three film screenings, get your game on at activity booths, mingle with familiar-faced mascots, or chill to the tunes of local buskers.
The first 50 visitors to complete a social media challenge will get a limited edition “tapau” series pin with designs like bandung, kopi o, and teh tarik done in collaboration with Pindemic. Also look out for an area for the little ones where children under the age of 12 hawk their kid-friendly products such as clothes, toys, and snacks.
Aug 3-5, 10am-10pm at Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre, Halls 401-402.
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