Immerse yourself in the spirit of Raya across the borders in Singapore

Festive Lights at Geylang Serai (Photo credits: Wisma Geylang Serai)

The Singapore-Malaysia borders have reopened just in time for the Raya celebrations. This year, Malaysians will be spoilt for choice on where to go celebrate, without restrictions, as life gradually returns to normal. And with the Vaccinated Travel Framework between Malaysia-Singapore up and running, it makes it even easier for family and friends to reunite after such a long separation.

This Raya, seize your chance this long holiday weekend to experience the spirit of Raya coming alive in Singapore. Pack your suitcases and create unforgettable moments this festive season with your loved ones. Here are the unique Raya-themed offerings and experiences that await you in Singapore.

Fill your stomach with festive goodies and get some last-minute Raya shopping done while being enchanted by a sea of colour and light at Geylang Serai. From traditional dishes like beef rendang and Sayur Lodeh to unique delicacies like 'Praffles' by Foodtitude, a waffle base made from waffle and Prata batter and Yakult cake by Ole Ole, there are 22 food stalls for you to choose from at the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar. Available from now till 8 May 2022, you can enjoy the iconic festival light-ups with a 'Gotong Royong' - Unity and Resilience theme this year as you stroll along Sims Avenue and Changi Road in Singapore.

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• Buka Puasa under the twinkling festive lights in Singapore

Projection Mapping at Sultan Mosque (Photo credits: Visit Kampong Gelam)

Aside from the Geylang Serai Hari Raya Light-Ups, Ramadan is kicking off with a big bang in 2022 with the comeback of the Cinta Cahaya Ramadan campaign, featuring projection mapping that paints the walls of the resplendent Sultan Mosque alongside fairy lights in the prominent precinct of Kampong Gelam. With the bustling nightlife rekindled and livening up the Ramadan atmosphere at the heart of Kampong Gelam, you can also take your pick at Walk Thru Souk's Bazaar by Laloolalang with more than 20 F&B stalls that will definitely satisfy your cravings, be it the traditional bazaar's must-haves or adventurous fusion street food.

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• Handcrafted souvenirs to bring home in these Ramadhan Workshops at Kampong Gelam

The best gifts come from the heart, not the store. Immerse your senses in the rich traditions, colourful histories and cultural values of Kampong Gelam through a series of workshops available to get your hands on. From leather crafting Ketupat coin pouches to personalised incense making, and from printmaking and crafting things like a mini Sajadah (prayer rug), add your personal touch to these handmade souvenirs. They make great thoughtful gifts for loved ones.

Register for the Leather Keypouch Workshop by Crafune here.

Register for the Incense Workshop by Sifr Aromatics here.

Register for the Printmaking and Craft Workshops by Lokka Lekkr Makers Studio here.

"Aminah in Kampong Gelam" Walking Tour (Photo credits: Let’s Go Tour)

Take a stroll in Kampong Gelam with your family and take in the history and sights through a theatrical walking tour – "Aminah in Kampong Gelam". Be immersed in this experiential theatrical tour as you travel to different locations as the storyline progresses. Then, explore Singapore with 'Makcik Aminah' as she shares about her olden days and fascinating tales of Singapore, complete with curated stories that tell the culture, history, and life values in a fun and impactful way.

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Book your theatrical tour over here.

• Rediscover Kampong Gelam with an out-of-the-ordinary tour with your family

Baju by Oniatta's Senandung 1974 collection (Photo credits: Baju by Oniatta)

• Level up your fashion game this festive season with these chic local clothing brands

If you love the 70s and silhouettes of traditional Malay fashion, you'll love Baju by Oniatta's new Raya collection – Senandung 1974. Celebrating all things traditional, Senandung 1974 upholds the utmost respect and regard for the Malay tradition, heritage, and culture. The selection of batik tulis for this collection is specifically from Surakarta, Yogyakarta and Cirebon. Oniatta Effendi, founder of Baju by Oniatta was also recently featured in the second season of Hello From Singapore. She shared how she has reimagined Batik in modern wardrobes, the inspiration behind her collections and the new releases to expect to see when you're in Singapore.

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Shop at Galeri Tokokita here.

Check out Oniatta’s episode on Hello From Singapore Season 2 here.

• Raya and Ramadan Food Guide from the Mouth-Watering Michelin Bib Gourmand Establishments to Halal Bars in Singapore

(L-R) Fairytail Bar’s Seasonal Ramadan Mocktails, Robin Merah Jambu - Kurma Fairytail mocktail

Get yourself a refreshing mocktail at the Fairytail Bar By The Halal Mixologist, Singapore's first halal rooftop gastro bar by The Halal Mixologist located right on top of D'hotel. Sip on handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktails while enjoying a bird's eye view of Singapore's downtown skyline. With unique mocktails inspired and named after birds, such as 'Asian Koel', a mocktail made of Sumatran coffee beans, cinnamon elixir Gula Melaka, and 'Toco Toucan', a mocktail made of lavender elixir, mint leaves, lime juice, and Sprite. They are also offering a special Ramadan Menu this year where you can enjoy a 3 or 4-course dinner with seasonal Ramadan mocktails like Robin Merah Jambu and Kurma Fairytail mocktail under the night sky.

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(L-R) Vegetable Dum Biryani - Chana Masala - Kulfi (Photo credits: Bismillah Biryani Restaurant)

Want to dine in a Michelin acknowledged restaurant without breaking the bank? Check out Bismillah Biryani Restaurant, a five-time winning Michelin Bib Gourmand Award establishment known for its dum-style biryani. Chef-owner Arif Salahuddin, created a healthier version of this classic dish with fresh ingredients without MSG, preservatives and additives while still making sure it's authentic. The restaurant is also Anthony Bourdain-approved and serves signatures like the melt-in-your-mouth mutton seekh kebab and kulfi.

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Website: https://www.bismillahbiryani.com/

The Malayan Council’s Classic Ondeh-Ondeh Cake (Photo credits: The Malayan Council)

If you're a fan of desserts like Putu Piring or Durian Pengat, The Malayan Council Café serves it in cake! The café serves Malay dishes with a Western influence, bringing together bold flavours, traditional profiles and unique combinations to give you an exquisite and unforgettable experience. Leave room for traditional desserts with a modern twist, ‘cause you will find classic Malay desserts turned into cakes like Ondeh-Ondeh, Bandung Lychee, Cempedak Sago, and quirky combinations such as Mango Boba and Chocolate Ovomaltine awaiting you and your family to get a taste in Singapore.

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Website: https://themalayancouncil.sg/

Discover and stay updated with the latest happenings and Raya experiences in Singapore on https://www.facebook.com/VisitSingaporeMY/

Stay updated about the processes and requirements for travelling to Singapore on https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/

(L-R) Sereine Kurung & Girls Set - Calme Girls & Boy Set (Photo credits: Thea Kids)

For a spin on the contemporary modern modest chic ‘Baju Raya’, ELDA’s Eid Collection 2022 – Cœur uses a subtle blend of geometric motifs and flowy fabrics, promising comfort and versatility for your Raya. A wardrobe necessity for women that is timeless and fashionable. With one and two-piece sets made of linen in understated yet stylish shared and wearable prints, you can also get matching sets for you and your children from the Raya collection from Thea Kids.

ELDA

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Shop Ladies at ELDA’s Website: https://eldastore.com/

Thea Kids

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Shop Kids at Thea Kids’ Website: https://theakids.co/

(L-R) SimpyRays' #RaysRaya2022 Evora - Nuqra (Photo credits: SimplyRays)

Look cute with your loved ones wearing matching family sets from SimplyRays! To create matching outfits for the whole family, SimplyRays has a wide array of family sets this year for the #RaysRaya2022 Collection, ranging from florals to batik-inspired prints and even solid-coloured versions in multiple shades.

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Shop SimplyRays’ here.