The annual Hari Raya festivities are back, and this year, expect the Geylang Serai area to be lit up with more than 900,000 LED bulbs, with plenty of arts activities to entertain the throngs of people gathering at the month-long market.
It seems short, but it’s been nearly a year since every Instagram-lovin’ millennial swarmed the (very) crowded walkways of Geylang Serai Bazaar for hipster snacks like rainbow bagels, fried Oreos and salted egg churros during the Ramadan period. If you missed out on the festive atmosphere last year, you’ve got a month to make up for it at this year’s edition (May 25-Jun 24), where you can try bizarre creations like candy floss burritos and rainbow planet ice cream buns, alongside traditional delicacies such as kuih tart (pineapple tart) and kuih bangkit (tapioca cookies). Just be prepared to fight the crowds and jostle your way through more than 1,000 stalls at the bazaar. Yes, over 1,000 — so claustrophobes stay away.
Of course, the festivities aren’t just about the annual market (although you should check out what it looked like way back when) — simply stroll through the light centrepieces along Sims Avenue and Changi Road to explore the massive installations, which include a 12m-wide kelong and sampan where weekly performances and screenings of popular Malay movies will be held.
Also look out for a temporary exhibition housed in a contraption inspired by the weaves of a ketupat (rice dumpling), as well as a pop-up museum featuring fishing boats, gongs, and traditional Malay games.
The Hari Raya Light Up 2017 is at Geylang Serai from May 20-Jul 7. Free.
Reader Interactions