1. Enjoy the spirit of the season

The Singapore River is action packed with free festive entertainment from Nov 14 to Jan 2. Whip out your cameras to capture spectacular fireworks on selected Fridays (from 9pm), sing your heart out with river carolers every Thursday to Saturday (from 7:30pm) and say hi to roving Christmas mascots every Friday (from 7:30pm). See the Singapore River Christmas website for the full list of performance dates and locations, to be sure you don’t miss your favorite act.

2. Snap up Christmas bargains

Whether it’s presents for your loved ones or just treats for yourself, there are plenty of places to shop along the river. At Clarke Quay Central check out Miss Empire’s glittery accessory lines, Shinnpark’s quirky range of gift ideas and SKYroom’s curated collection of local designer fashions.

There are great festive dining promos over at Clarke Quay too, such as fresh catch of the day at Fremantle Seafood Market. If you need a little excitement after your meal, head straight to Tang Music Box and belt out your favourite pop tunes.

Also, make the most of  UnionPay’s Spend and Win Promotion this Christmas. From Nov 14 to Dec 28, spend a minimum of $50 on your UnionPay card at establishments along the Singapore River for a chance to win up to $10,0.00 worth of exciting prizes. Terms and conditions apply. More info here.

3. Indulge in a riverside brunch

Fuel up before your Christmas shopping with brunch at The Novotel Square Restaurant, an open-kitchen buffet experience with international cuisine as well as Singapore favorites. Or head down to Swissôtel’s Ellenborough Market Cafe for an indulgent buffet dining experience along the banks of the Singapore River. If you’re more the type for some afternoon delight, reward yourself with exquisite pastries and cakes at Madame Patisserie.

4. Relish a delicious family dinner

For a special family dinner, try the Italian and contemporary European cuisine from Enoteca L’Operetta or indulge in the signature chilli stew crab from Red House Seafood. If you want to take it up a notch, try dining literally on the Singapore River on the last surviving pair of Chinese tongkangs in the city. Tongkang Riverboat Dining serves a range of cuisine including pasta, seafood and hot stone meats in a seating area on board the boat.

5. Celebrate with festive drinks

To ring in the festive season with evening drinks head to The Public House for casual and colorful beers in the heart of the Boat Quay action, or make tracks for nearby Charlie’s Tapas, Grill & Bar for premium tequilas and margaritas. For something a little different, try Float @ The Bay, Singapore’s first luxury floating bar that cruises along the Singapore River, from Clarke Quay through Boat Quay to the Marina Bay area.

6. Party the night away

Head to BQ Bar and revel with the after-work crowd enjoying the festive spirit along the river. Or if you fancy some beer on tap and perhaps checking out a sports game, make a beeline for Harry’s or for those more into live music and well-mixed cocktails, head to The Mad Men Attic Bar and take in the city lights from their rooftop. Or, for a full-on night of clubbing, there’s fashion-themed, crystal-encrusted nightspot f.Club and its roster of live DJs.

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