I think it's safe to say no other nation quite goes all out celebrating the holiday the way they do in the States. But if you're living here in Singapore, no worries! Halloween is a pretty big deal here, too now. .
Take note: this year, Halloween conicides with Deepavali so a lot of the events are not on the actual holiday.
Where to go Trick-or-Treating?
Woodlands
Location: Woodlands
Time: October 31 (6 PM - 9 PM)
The granddaddy of all trick-or-treating takes place in the Woodlands. The community-driven event started way back in 2007 so it's one of the longest-running Halloween trick-or-treating here. Halloween in the Woodlands is like no other trick-or-treating you've ever experienced. Every house goes all out with the decorations, preparing for the throngs of people. In fact, realtors tell people who rent there that they are expected to particpate in the fun! There is even a contest for best decorated house.
The roads are shut down to traffic as hordes of people weave through the masses, going house to house for candy. People who live in the area say they give out about 5,000 pieces of candy every year – and that's giving only one piece per person! A lot of people have parties, too. If you're invited to one, bring a bag of candy or two to help out your hosts. candy is really expensive here.
The video below was shot pre-Covid and, as you can see, it really is like trick-or-treating you've never seen before! Things are a bit different post Covid so you may find fewer people this year, but it will still be busy. Trick-or-treating in the Woodlands is always on the actual holiday, October 31.
Singapore's Woodlands on Halloween night
This year, there is also a rooftop party on Halloween night which sounds like it might be a great option for little kids.
Other Neighborhoods
Many condos have their own event so check to see if your building is hosting one. Often, you must sign up if you're willing to hand out candy. And a big hint: buy your candy early as it sometimes sells out. Mustafa has the best deals.
And there are also lots of trick-or-treating opportunities in the malls, but probably not on the actual day.
Other neighborhoods in Singapore also typically host Halloween trick-or-treating on a smaller scale than the Woodlands.
Some neighborhoods like Chip Bee Gardens welcome all for trick-or-treating, but you must be a resident of the area to attend their carnival.
Check the One PA website for more info about the ridiculousnumber of neighborhood Halloween fairs.
Here are some of the other big trick-or-treating events.
Namly Estate
Location: Namly Park @ Namly Place
Time: October 26 (6.30 PM - 8.30 PM)
Namly Estate’s Halloween Party is called “Namly Halloween 2024.” Another long-running event with a house-decorating costume, too, this event is welcome to all. There are all sorts of things going on such as a best dressed contest and even a magic show! To join the best dressed contest, visit the photobooth at 6.15 PM. There will be three categories: Groups, Junior (12 years old and below) and Open (13 years old and above)
Opera Estate
Location: Opera Estate Football Field, Swan Lake Ave
Time: Saturday, 26 October 2024 (5.30 PM - 8.30 PM)
Trick-or-treating is open to all, but for $5 you get a goodie bag, snacks and games.
Watten Estate
Location: Watten Estate Rd.
Time: October 26
Another trick-or-treating event with a small carnival that includes games, face painting anda photo booth.
Keeping Your Kids Safe
In the States, Halloween can often be on a cold night. It seems like the first cold snap of the year always seems to come on October 31. Moms are often desperately trying to figure out how to layer up the kids under the costumes so they still look cute, but stay warm. Heck, in the Northeast, you might even trick-or-treat in the snow on a rare year.
That is definitely NOT the case in Singapore. Trick-or-treating is a sweltering and hot affair. I mean, freaking hot. So it's really key to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Parents, you also need to drink a lot of water! Look for costumes that don't have too many layers. Pay attention to your little ones as you go. The plus of sweating so much? You don't often have to do a quick-strip to make it to the bathroom in time!
If you head into the Woodlands in particular, make sure you hold onto your kids and have a plan if they get lost. You might even write their phone numbers on the kids' arms!
Also, take younger kids right when trick-or-treating opens, particularly in the Woodlands, before it gets dark. Little ones get a bit freaked out by the scary decorations a tnight and they are also easily lost in the dark. The whole thing can be a bit overwhelming for them. And dont' feel like you have to hit every house.
All told, your kiddos will have a blast – and so will you! Looking for some adult fun, Singapore has that in space. Check out this article!
Enjoy your holiday!
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