In the blink of an eye, we are diving into the final quarter of 2016. September is almost here and we hope you are pumped up for the line-up of exciting events for the month.

Treat yourselves to a spectacular night at the Singapore F1 Night Race, stuff yourselves silly during Mid-Autumn Festival, learn to craft a lantern, catch your favourite idols Jay Chou and The Simple Plan live, and/or party like there’s no tomorrow at Ultra Music Festival Singapore etc.

Here are 9 Events to Check out in Singapore in September.

Source: Wikimedia

#1 GRAND PRIX SEASON SINGAPORE

2016 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix is held across the weekend at the Marina Bay Street Circuit. Get your wallets ready and prep your ear plugs to witness an exhilarating race.

Cars aside, visitors can also look forward to live gigs by world-famous celebrities such as Bastille, Imagine Dragons and Kylie Minogue.

When: Friday, 16 September 2016 to Sunday, 18 September 2016

Source: Kids World

#2 KIDS WORLD FAIR

Held at Suntec Convention Hall, the two-day event Kids World Fair is Asia’s Largest Enrichment Fair and aims to promote education, fun and health in bringing up children.

There are 30 over workshops, 50 over health brands and many interactive family-friendly games to partake in. A must-visit for parents with little ones!

When: Friday, 02 September 2016 to Sunday, 04 September 2016

Source: Esplanade

#3 LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOP

Running out of fun ideas to keep your kids entertained? Why not sign up them up for a 90-minute Lantern-Making Workshop! This hands-on day class is conducted at Esplanade classes are available in either English or Mandarin.

Tickets cost S$8 per pax and there are sessions held at 10.30am and 3pm.

When: Saturday, 10 September 2016 and Sunday, 11 September 2016

#4 MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL

Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with your loved ones on this very special day by munching on delicious mooncakes whilst admiring the moon at its roundest. Several places in Singapore such as Chinese Garden and Chinatown will be commemorating this occasion with thematic performances.

When: Thursday, 15 September 2016

Source: AP Photo

#5 SIMPLE PLAN TAKING ONE FOR THE TEAM TOUR

Simple Plan is on their Taking One For The Team Tour and will be performing live in Singapore on 05 September 2016 at The Coliseum, Hard Rock Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa Singapore at 8pm.

Standard tickets start from S$138 and door tickets start from S$158.

When: Monday, 05 September 2016

Source: Hype

#6 ‘THE INVINCIBLE’ JAY CHOU CONCERT TOUR

Save the date for 03 September 2016, because Mandopop king Jay Chou will be serenading the crowds at National Stadium at 8pm. This is one night we are totally looking forward to!

The multi-talented Taiwanese artist is conducting his seventh world tour and tickets start from S$118.

When: Saturday, 03 September 2016

Source: Felix Pro

#7 ULTRA SINGAPORE

Ultra Singapore is Southeast Asia’s only full-fledged edition of the Ultra Music Festival. Held across three stages at Ultra Park at Bayfront Avenue, the music event boasts an impressive line up where party animals can anticipate gigs by Above & Beyond, Afrojack, Alesso, DJ Snake, Kygo and Tiësto etc.

Admission to the two-day festival starts from US$190 per pax.

When: Saturday, 10 September 2016 and Sunday, 11 September 2016

Source: Gusto Italiano

#8 GUSTO ITALIANO 2016

If you are a fan of pastas, pizzas, and just about anything Italian, Gusto Italiano 2016 is the place to be. Leading Italian restaurants all around Singapore will be participating in the event, and you can even get to taste dishes from world-renowned Italian chefs.

There will be various events happening for the entire month of September through October for Gusto Italiano, such as wine pairing and culinary workshops, and even a gala dinner!

When: Thursday, 01 September 2016 to Saturday, 15 October 2016

#9 WICKED THE MUSICAL

You don’t need to be a musical enthusiast to enjoy a good theatrical show like WICKED. It is one of Broadway’s most famous and celebrated productions of all time, and has already won about 100 international awards.

A hit with both the young and old, be taken in with the classic story of friendship and have your breath taken away with the impeccable performance numbers and stage production.

Standard tickets for the musical starts from S$55 from SISTIC.

When: Thursday, 29 September 2016 to Sunday, 30 October 2016

Have you already spent a bomb this Valentine’s Day on the present(s) for your lover? Then you now need to think of activities that will not cost an arm or a leg.

Singapore is a country filled with amazing things that you can do for free. And these activities and places can be pretty romantic, too.

If your ideal Valentine’s Day is a simple day out to spend quality time with your loved one,  here is a list of 10 Free Things to Do This Valentine’s Day 2016. Take a fun hike or visit a museum, as long as you are with someone you enjoy company with, you know your day will be splendid.

#1 CYCLING AT CONEY ISLAND PARK

Coney Island Park is just about the most popular haunt in recent months for all who fancy some outdoor adventure. Breezy and pretty, with tall trees that are lush and very beautiful. Rent a bicycle or bring your own for a self-cycling tour around Coney Island Park.

Read: Guide on Coney Island Park and what you can expect.

#2 EXPLORE GARDENS BY THE BAY

A large part of Gardens By The Bay is free and if you still have not been there, you absolutely must. Dubbed as the icon of Singapore now, Gardens By The Bay has lots to impress with its flora and fauna. There are also endless photo spots here; capture your loving moments away to remember your special day out!

#3 FLY KITES AT MARINA BARRAGE

Yes, it is cliche but we love it. Just being worry-free and flying a kite, with a view of Marina Bay, sounds like the perfect day for us. Unadulterated, without a care about the world. Why not have a picnic while you are at it too?

#4 GO FOR AN EXHIBITION AT ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM

Exhibitions are usually free of charge here, with an exception of a few. And Artscience Museum always has the best exhibitions.

#5 HAVE A FUN DAY AT THE BEACH

Singapore may not have the best beaches in Asia, but we sure have very clean ones. You can go for a tan, have a picnic, take a dip or play a game of beach volleyball. Whatever it is, you and your partner can take the time to let loose and just have fun.

#6 RAIL CORRIDOR – SINGAPORE’S VERY OWN VERSION OF NEW YORK’S HIGH LINE

Singapore is set to come up with its very own version of New York City’s The High Line on the Rail Corridor – the former rail line will be transformed into a park that will stretch across 24 kilometres, making it 10 times longer than The High Line. With the Rail Corridor set to be developed, one should not pass up the opportunity to see and photograph it in all of its natural glory, before it loses its identity and its atmosphere.

Read: 10 Uncharted Nature Trails in Singapore.

#7 HAVE A PICNIC AT SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

This gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a beautiful and huge garden with a stunning Swan Lake. And it is one of the best spots in Singapore to have a picnic at! Pack along some cupcakes, strawberries, cookies and champagne. To make things sweeter, prepare a secret surprise dish for each other! It can be your lover’s favourite snack, or his/her craving.

#8 ROMANTIC WALKS AT MARINA SOUTH PIER

Marina South Pier is where ships dock and the ferries stop at. The huge stretch of coastline is ideal for a quiet, romantic walk with your lover. Take a breather from your hectic work life and enjoy the lovely, uninterrupted stroll.

#9 VISIT ANIMALS AT SPCA

Are you both animal lovers? What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than to use your time on rescued animals? Caring for furry darlings will surely make your Valentine’s Day more meaningful!

#10 VISIT NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE

The National Gallery Singapore has only opened its doors to the world last year, but they are fast becoming a favourite spot among Singaporeans and tourists alike. If you haven’t set foot in the new compound, perhaps this could be your answer to Valentine’s Day?

Read: Guide to National Gallery Singapore and What You Can Expect.

Why not bring your partner for a staycation? Here are 15 Romantic Staycation Ideas in Singapore To Celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day is coming and if you are always looking for ways to break your usual dating routine(s) with your partner, we might just have the answer for you. Truth to be told, it can be easier than you think. Whenever you see a fun activity that your friends shared on their social media, or from a drama serial, or anything at all – note them down on your mobile phone.

Another easy method is just to recall the things you used to love to do (before life caught up on you). Was it singing karaoke with your buddies? Having a friendly match of snooker? Or simply staying at home playing board games? Revisit them.

There are so many possibilities and even more ways to keep the love alive. Here, we share with you some Valentine’s Day Date Ideas – 9 Fun Activities & Thrilling Things to Do in Singapore.

#1 GAME NIGHT FOR 2

By game, we mean board games, videos games and so much more. No grown adult can get over the thrill of a simple game like Jenga or Monopoly. But of course, you can always snuggle up in bed and fight zombies on your Xbox, too!

#2 BAR HOP

Instead of stationing yourself at one location, go to a couple and try their various signature cocktails. Cocktails are getting more and more love and attention here in Singapore, and everywhere around the world, there are a ton of really interesting flavours awaiting your discovery.

Read: 8 Interesting Cocktails with a local twist you should try in Singapore.

#3 TAKE A TOUR AROUND THE ISLAND

You can rent a motorcycle (if you can ride) or simply grab a bicycle and go for a spin. There are several park connectors for those who are going by bicycles, and for the adventurous ones who are going on a motorcycle, take a route that you normally wouldn’t and navigate your ways together as a couple!

#4 DO VOLUNTEER WORK TOGETHER

Volunteers are always needed in many non-profit organisations. Research online beforehand to check out which organisation needs your help, or if there are any campaigns over the weekend that still requires manpower. Give back to the society together in the company of your loved one; how meaningful!

#5 GO FOR DANCE CLASSES

Venture out of your comfort zone and try something you wouldn’t normally do. Sign up for dance classes; ballroom dancing is a good one to start on. This dancesport is both beautiful and intimate, and requires much communication and coordination. That should pretty much strengthen you as a couple, and we can pretty much guarantee that you will have a “ball” of time here.

7. REVISIT YOUR CHILDHOOD

Think something as simple as building a lego structure or making a kite from scratch and getting it up in the sky. You would not know the absolute excitement of something as carefree and simple as this, until you actually do it with your partner! The simplest joy that you grew up with will always be a bittersweet happiness to relish.

#6 GO TO AN ESCAPE ROOM

Escape rooms are popping up everywhere. Book a time slot and get ‘trapped’ in a room together with your partner. This simple game will have you working together through communication, and it will certainly strengthen your relationship while learning new attributes about each other.

8. PLAN A PICNIC

Not a lavish sit-down dinner kind of couple? You aren’t the only one! Plan a picnic instead. Take the chance to whip up dishes with love for each other, then find a spot in Singapore that bears symbolic meaning to your relationship. Perhaps it is the park where you first kissed, or the Barrage where you first flew a kite together?

8. HIT THE BEACH

When was the last time you took a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores and stop to listen to the sounds of the waves crashing? The beach is somewhere so relaxing, and it calms all senses. Take your lover’s hand, kick off your shoes, and just frolic under the sun at the beach! The best things in life are free like that.

For recommendations on where to dine at on Valentine’s Day, read our guide to the most romantic restaurants in Singapore.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Because the nights ain’t all about alcohol and partying.

While most people might think there’s nothing much to do in Singapore – apart from hitting the clubs or watering holes – after dark, we beg to differ.

There will always be something healthy and non-toxic to enjoy after dark. Here, we have 9 Night Activites You Can Do in Singapore.

#1 NIGHT SAFARI

If you’re a nocturnal being like the residents here, the world’s first night zoo, which opens from 7.30pm to 12am offers a host of activities to dispel boredom of any kind. From its nightly interactive shows to tram rides and hiking trails around the compound, this place is also perfect for animal-lovers who think it’s too hot to pay a visit at the Singapore Zoo, which opens in the day.

80 Mandai Lake Road, take bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio station, 927 from Choa Chu Kang or 926 from Marsiling and Woodlands stations

Where do you go when you’re looking to escape the city bustle, or are simply seeking pocket-friendly options for a quiet retreat? Here are 6 places in Singapore to escape to.

#2 NIGHT FISHING/PRAWNING

Looking for activities to accommodate a bigger group of friends? Prawning/fishing farms that open till late are a great way to bond. Think of it as a mini BBQ gathering, only food is provided fresh. We love that the atmosphere is reminiscent of a rustic kampong gathering, where everyone sits around waiting for a bite (or a few) to happen. And, when you’ve finally got something at the end of the line, just pull your rod up, grab the prawn or prawns, and put it on the barbeque pit. The best part: You won’t have to go looking for supper should you feel nippy after all that hard work.

You can try these 24-hour spots: Anglers’ Paradise (#01-11 Punggol Golf Club), Hai Bin Jurong (241 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, The Village) or East Coast Prawning (#01-06 1020 East Coast Parkway).

#3 NIGHT CYCLING

Some places are best admired at night, especially when it’s cooler, less crowded, and the lights come out. A few places you can check out include the Punggol Waterway, East Coast Park towards Changi Village and….. A word of advice: Wear light-coloured clothing, especially if you’re going to be on the roads, so drivers can watch out for you. Also, if you’ve got novice cyclists in your group, make sure they remain in front of the group so you can look out for them should they come into any problems.

#4 KITE-FLYING

There aren’t many places in Singapore where we can fly a kite. Marina Barrage is a popular spot if you want to indulge in that unadulterated activity at night, though. Parking is relatively cheap, and you get lots of space to send your kite up the sky. It is usually windier at night too, and that’s when it is truly therapeutic to fly your kite and see it dance freely amongst the sky full of stars.

No idea what to do during the weekends? Here are 9 things you can do for free in Singapore.

#5 HELP, WE’RE STUCK

Locked rooms (a series of rooms that let you solve solutions through a series of clues for you to “escape”) have been gaining popularity with young people these days. Unleash your inner Sherlock, so you don’t have to ask the staff to “bail” you out of these rooms!

Try Xcape Singapore (closes 11.30pm on weekdays and 2am on Fridays and Saturdays), Breakout Escape Game (closes midnight on weekdays and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays) and The Escape Artist (midnight daily)

6. BULLSEYE

Fancy yourself an accurate shot? There a few dart bars or dart joints, which open till late. We chanced upon Darts Culture at Cineleisure (it closes at 4am!) when we were thinking of places to head to after midnight, and this one didn’t disappoint. The dart machines are electronic, and definitely safe for everyone, including beginners.

Other places to try: i Darts Singapore (1am for weekdays and public holidays and 3am for weekends and eves of public holidays) and Forest Darts Café & Pub (2am).

#7 WALK IN THE PARK

For those seeking a tranquil environment not far from the city centre, you can take a leisurely stroll around the Gardens By The Bay (Bayfront Station, Exit B). The Gardens offers a verdant respite as you take in the plants and sights of the city amidst the cool night weather. While the conservatories and the Dome close earlier, the Bay South Outdoor Gardens open till 2am.

#8 LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING

Perfect for night owls and those who’re too busy to shop for their groceries in the day, Mustafa Centre (Farrer Park Station, Exit G) offers a myriad of items for sale. From fragrances to jewellery, everyday items such as shampoo, soap and produce (through its supermarket upstairs) are available as well.

#9 SECONDS? YES, PLEASE!

What’s a foodie to do in the middle of the night when most eateries are closed? Seek out the ones which aren’t (duh!). Places like Café Le Caire, Salted Caramel Artisan Ice Cream, Spize, 2am dessert bar and a few others open till late, which serves those looking for second rounds (we mean dessert) after dinner.

Got more suggestions? Let us know in the comment box, below!

About the writer:
Amanda Tan has written pieces for several publications, which include stories on food, lifestyle and beauty. She believes life is too short for regrets, and hopes to live in London (just for the experience). She is also a self-professed cake addict, and can never resist a slice, at any time of the day. If you’d like to share life hacks, travel tips and general advice, you can drop her a note at scented19@gmail.com.

If you truly love someone, every day should be like Valentine’s Day.

It’s great to be in love, there are so many sweet things that you can do with your partner: surprise her with a candlelight dinner during a weekend; snuggle in bed on a cold rainy day; send silly messages to each other throughout the day; buy a flower for her even though there’s no special occasion.

Guys, you do not need a reason to be romantic. You should always do things to make her feel special; she is, after-all the most important person in your life. Everyone likes list posts, so here are some romantic ideas/things to do with your partner.

There are many things in this world which I do not understand, but there is one thing I am sure of – love always wins.

Short getaway

Budget airlines like Jetstar, Tiger, AiaAsia have completely redefined the travel experience. With prices of air-tickets falling faster than a soufflé, there’s really no excuse for not going on a holiday. Plan for a 3D2N getaway to nearby cities like Phuket, Bangkok, Bali and surprise him/her. It is the best Valentine’s Day Gift for your partner.

Staycation

‘Staycations’ have become very popular in recent years, and it is a good alternative if you want to avoid the hassle of planning for a holiday.

Resorts World Sentosa (8 Sentosa Gateway Resorts World Sentosa Tel: +65 6577 8888) has a 3D2N Tropical Special at $788 which includes two nights stay at Hotel Michael Deluxe Room, Hard Rock Hotel Deluxe Room or Festive Hotel Deluxe Family Room; and one day pass to Universal Studios Singapore for Two.

Hotel Fort Canning (11 Canning Walk Tel: +65 6559 6770) is the perfect setting for couples to escape from the busy world and go a romantic rendezvous over the weekend. They are currently offering a Valentine’s Day promotion for S$380++ per room per night. The package is also inclusive of breakfast for two at The Glass House and complimentary champagne, wine and juices plus canapés at the Lobby Lounge from 6-8pm.

Be it anniversary, birthday, Christmas, or Valentine’s day, going for staycation is a romantic idea for all occasions.

Take a cooking class together

AFC Studio (181 Orchard Road #07-02 Orchard Central Tel: + 65 6834 4829) is the place to go for good and relatively affordable cooking classes. They offer different cooking classes (two hour class is $45/pax) ranging from baking French cakes; to learning how to prepare authentic Indonesian dishes. I think it is a romantic idea to take cooking classes, and it is a great way for you and your partner to have fun and enjoy quality time together.

Cook candle light dinner

There’s nothing more romantic than preparing a candlelight dinner for your partner. It doesn’t have to be fanciful dishes, it just has to be prepared by you.

Go for a romantic Picnic

A romantic picnic is a wonderful way to spend a lazy day with your boyfriend/girlfriend, and best of all, it’s a romantic gesture which doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can pack sandwiches, and your partner’s favourite snacks.

And of course, you can always “cheat” by buying from gourmet shops. Head to Jones the Grocer (12 Dempsey Road Tel: +65 6476 1512) or Da Paolo Gastronomia (290 Orchard Road, #B1-20 The Paragon Tel: +65 6738 1462) to get some food, before heading to Botanic Gardens or Marina Barrage for a picnic.

For those of you who are planning to do a picnic at Botanic Gardens, you can get pizzas from Casa Verde (1 Cluny road Singapore Botanic Gardens Tel: +65 6467 7326); they have an ongoing 1-for-1 pizza promotion (Monday to Thursday, 11am – 9.30pm) for takeaway.

(To the guys reading this: I would suggest bringing along a bottle of champagne too – it’s perfect for a simple and romantic picnic.)

For more recommendations, please read my Guide to Valentine’s Day Dinner 2012

Do share with us what are some of the romantic things that you do with your boyfriend/girlfriend. Remember, it’s not about what you do, but who you do it with. Have fun with your partner!