Geylang Serai, Singapore – The annual Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar commenced on , marking the start of the festive season for Singapore’s Muslim community and drawing visitors from across the multicultural nation. The bazaar, considered a cornerstone of Singapore’s Hari Raya celebrations, will run until , encompassing the entirety of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Stretching from Geylang Serai Market near Wisma Geylang Serai to the area beside Tanjong Katong Complex, the bazaar features over 500 stalls offering a diverse array of goods, from traditional Malay cuisine and festive decorations to clothing, carpets, and handicrafts. Organizers have emphasized a commitment to maintaining a vibrant atmosphere while ensuring accessibility and affordability for all visitors.
This year’s bazaar places particular emphasis on digital payment options. A partnership with Grab provides visitors with a 5% discount when using Grab Dine Out, and those making purchases at three different stalls with the feature are eligible for $3 Grab Dine Out vouchers, redeemable at over 1,000 businesses. Bazaar retailers are also being offered opportunities to participate in daily livestreaming sessions on Shopee, from 8:00 p.m. To midnight, to broaden their reach and sales.
Food and beverage vendors at the bazaar are subject to stringent requirements, with all stalls mandated to be either halal
-certified, Muslim-owned, or approved by a halal
certification consultant. This ensures adherence to Islamic dietary laws and provides reassurance to Muslim consumers. While the bazaar is slightly smaller this year, hosting 150 dedicated food and beverage vendors, the quality and variety of offerings remain a central attraction.
The bazaar’s theme, We Celebrate Together
, underscores Singapore’s commitment to multicultural harmony. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who launched the celebration, highlighted the diverse visitors to Geylang Serai as a testament to Singapore’s inclusive society. The event serves as a visible demonstration of the country’s social cohesion and its ability to embrace and celebrate different cultures.
Despite a rainy start on , over 1,000 people attended the opening ceremony at Wisma Geylang Serai. The bazaar will remain open daily from 10:00 a.m. To 11:59 p.m., with extended hours until 4:00 a.m. On the eve of Hari Raya, , to accommodate last-minute shopping for the festival.
Accessibility to the bazaar is convenient via public transportation, with Paya Lebar MRT Station being the nearest station. From there, visitors can easily walk to the bazaar grounds following clearly marked routes.
Visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid peak crowds and the afternoon heat. Bringing a portable fan, a small towel, and an umbrella are recommended, given Singapore’s tropical climate and the possibility of rain. Comfortable footwear is also essential, as exploring the extensive range of stalls requires considerable walking.
The Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar is not merely a commercial event; it is a cultural experience that embodies the spirit of Ramadan and Hari Raya. It provides a platform for local businesses, fosters community engagement, and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Malay traditions and cuisine. The bazaar’s continued success reflects its enduring appeal as a beloved Singaporean institution.
The bazaar’s extended run, lasting three days longer than previous iterations, allows visitors ample time to experience the festivities throughout Ramadan. This extended period also provides a boost to local businesses and reinforces the bazaar’s position as the largest Hari Raya celebration in Singapore.
For those seeking further culinary exploration, a guide to the best halal
food restaurants in Singapore is available, complementing the diverse offerings at the bazaar. The combination of the bazaar and the wider halal
food scene underscores Singapore’s commitment to catering to the needs of its Muslim community and promoting culinary diversity.
