Media Room

Model trains and Labubu toys brought some early Christmas cheer to 60 lower income union members and their families who are beneficiaries of NTUC-U Care Fund, when they visited Gardens by the Bay today.

Accompanied by Guest-of-Honour, NTUC Deputy Secretary-General Mr Heng Chee How, the families participated in a series of fun activities such as assembling Labubu-themed terrariums, painted Christmas ornaments to hang on Christmas trees in Flower Dome, as well as toured the Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show floral display. NTUC Secretary-General Mr Ng Chee Meng, and NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and Director (Care Division) Mr Melvin Yong also joined in the activities. 

Complimentary Access to Flower Dome and Cloud Forest for NTUC-U Care Fund beneficiaries

In partnership with NTUC, Gardens by the Bay will be giving out 5,600 Flower Dome and Cloud Forest tickets to NTUC-U Care Fund beneficiaries. This initiative is part of Gardens by the Bay’s Gift of Gardens community outreach initiative, which provides complimentary access to the Gardens for local residents who may not have the resources to visit. Eligible beneficiaries who have successfully balloted for the tickets can bring up to four other visitors to the two conservatories on their selected visit date from 18 December 2024 to 16 January 2025.

Gardens by the Bay CEO, Mr Felix Loh said, “Christmas is not only the season of giving, but also for people to come together. As an inclusive garden that hopes to reach out to everyone so that they can enjoy the benefits of nature, Gardens by the Bay is heartened to have the opportunity to work with NTUC-U Care Fund to bring joy to their beneficiaries, especially the children, who would particularly love our Christmas Train Show in Flower Dome this festive season.”

NTUC Secretary-General, Mr Ng Chee Meng said, “Today’s event at Gardens by the Bay is a heartwarming reminder of the spirit of giving that defines this festive season. Through the NTUC-U Care Fund, we are committed to caring for and improving the lives of our NTUC members who need it most.  NTUC’s continued partnership with Gardens by the Bay is one of the many ways we support our beneficiaries.”

Gardens by the Bay Partnership Plans with NTUC-U Care Fund in 2025

More Gardens by the Bay experiences are in the pipeline in 2025 for NTUC-U Care Fund beneficiaries as part of an ongoing partnership. During the March 2025 school holiday period next year, there will be opportunities for lower income families to be engaged in various activities.

NTUC Deputy Secretary-General, Mr Heng Chee How said, “NTUC is happy to bring the joy of this festive season to our members and their families served by the NTUC-U Care Fund. We are also most appreciative of this partnership with Gardens by the Bay and look forward to doing more together in the journey ahead."

These experiences include educational activities such as sustainability-themed tours where beneficiaries will learn about eco-friendly practices and environmental conservation. They will also have the opportunity to participate in exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, gaining insight into how horticulturists grow temperate plants in the tropics for floral displays. This is part of NTUC-U Care Fund’s recent collaboration with NTUC Club on the Empowering Dreams Programme, which aims to enrich the lives of children and youths from lower income families through transformative recreational and educational experiences.

Along with these experiences for NTUC-U Care Fund’s beneficiaries, Gardens by the Bay will also offer a series of training sessions for NTUC Club’s volunteers. This will prepare them to lead guided tours for NTUC-U Care Fund beneficiaries and design their own activities at Gardens by the Bay, as part of the Empowering Dreams Programme.

The whimsical magic of miniature trains winding through elaborate landscapes – an American festive tradition for more than a century – comes to Singapore for the first time on a scale never seen before. The inaugural Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show (滨海湾花园圣诞列车之旅) opens in Flower Dome today and runs until 5 January 2025.

Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States in Singapore, five model trains chug along more than 100m of complex railroads composed of loops and overhead trails, across diverse scenes showcasing the best of America, right in the centre of Flower Dome. Young and old alike will have fun following the route of the trains and spotting icons like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal along the way. All around, festive plants such as 16 different varieties of poinsettias, as well as the largest collection of conifers – 480 of them, in 49 different varieties – bring the feel of Christmas to Gardens by the Bay.

Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Train Show will bring 2024 to a close – a year where Gardens by the Bay is projected to hit its highest overall visitorship ever at 14 million. This number will surpass the pre-Covid high of 13.7 million visitors in 2019.

The American tradition of holiday train shows has its roots in the early 1900s, when families placed model trains beneath their Christmas trees at home. After all, this was the era of the great American railway, and trains had a strong association with the holiday season as locomotives carried people home to their families. Over time, this cherished custom evolved into large-scale shows during the Christmas season, which are popular with families.

Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance Mr Chee Hong Tat, and Ambassador of the United States of America to Singapore His Excellency Jonathan Kaplan officially launched the floral display in Flower Dome today.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh said, “Christmas is a special time of the year for people to come together. With trains helping to connect people across distances, our visitors can celebrate this joyous occasion with their loved ones at Gardens by the Bay’s first-ever model train-themed display, set amidst ornately-crafted international icons like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty. Not only will children enjoy watching the miniature locomotives go by, but we hope our debut holiday train show will also inspire a sense of childhood nostalgia in everyone else, and close the year on a festive high.” 

A cross-cultural effort across nationalities

The Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show is a cross-cultural effort between the Gardens’ horticulturists, American counterparts like New York Botanical Garden, United States Botanic Garden and garden railways specialist company Applied Imagination, and even model train aficionados in Singapore.

Some American landmarks featured in the show are intricate botanical models handcrafted from plant materials like pinecone scales, twigs and seeds, on loan from New York Botanical Garden and United States Botanic Garden. The two public gardens – with the United States Botanic Garden being the oldest continuously operating public garden in America, having opened in 1820 – hold well-loved holiday train shows every year. These botanical models, such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal and the United States Botanic Garden Conservatory, are showcased outside of the Americas for the first time.

New York Botanical Garden CEO and The William C. Steere Sr. President Ms Jennifer Bernstein said, “The New York Botanical Garden has proudly presented our Holiday Train Show® to generations of visitors for more than 30 years. We are pleased to share select plant-based replicas of New York City landmarks that have been featured in our exhibition with visitors to the Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show.”

United States Botanic Garden Executive Director Dr Susan K. Pell said, “It’s an honour to be invited by our colleagues at Gardens by the Bay to be a part of their holiday season show. We love collaborating with public gardens around the world, and we hope the model of our 1933 Conservatory made from dried plant parts will delight visitors and inspire them to learn more about the botanical world.”

In a ground-up community effort, model train hobbyists in Singapore were involved too. Led by Mr Thomas Bhat, a German who lives in Singapore, seven individuals were involved in areas such as advising on technicalities behind the train set-up and choice of train models on show, as well as putting together the trains, tracks and miniature decorative props.

Other railway highlights from around the world

In collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Singapore, a recreation of a vintage Swedish railbus invites visitors to explore authentic railway artefacts, such as railway lamps, signages and the train conductor’s lunchbox, on loan from the Swedish Railway Museum. Companions on this Swedish-themed journey include the gnome-like Nisse and a wood-carved Dala moose hand-painted by nine young beneficiaries from the Children's Cancer Foundation. There is also a showcase of model trains and dioramas featuring the railway landscapes of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

In a proudly local spin, the Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show also pays tribute to Singapore’s rail journey with recreations of the façade of Raffles Place MRT station and a MRT train cabin, in a collaboration with SMRT Corporation. Visitors will be able to learn about the history of Singapore’s MRT system and even see a rail component artefact on loan from the Singapore Rail Discovery Centre, which is open only to organised visits.

The Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show is supported by Bloomberg, Dalio Philanthropies, Federal Express Singapore and SMRT Corporation.

Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show

Date: Until Sunday, 5 January 2024

Time: 9am to 9pm

Venue: Flower Dome (Admission charge applies)

More than 6,000 preserved plants across 40 species, carefully selected for their diverse colours and rich textures, bring Disney and Pixar characters to vivid life as colourful topiaries in Disney Garden of Wonder. The diverse botanical palette used includes sea holly, moss, baby’s breath, roses, and more. Another 30,000 live and preserved plants were used to craft the detailed surrounding landscapes.

The floral spectacle, which took 17,000 painstaking manhours to put together by hand, makes its Singapore debut today, as Disney Garden of Wonder was launched in Gardens by the Bay’s Floral Fantasy by Senior Minister of State, Ministry of National Development Tan Kiat How. The show will run until 31 March 2025.

Organised in collaboration with Disney and supported by Singapore Tourism Board, Disney Garden of Wonder sees beloved Disney and Pixar characters such as Mickey Mouse and Friends, Snow White, Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc., and more transformed into delightful horticultural displays.

For example, to create Ariel from The Little Mermaid’s trademark red locks, Amaranthus caudatus, known for its striking, cascading tendrils that mimic the flow of hair underwater, was used. Her tail was crafted with Ruscus hypoglossum, a plant chosen for its glossy, blue-green sheen that represents the scaly texture of a mermaid’s tail. Meanwhile, her seashell top was made of blue-magenta hydrangeas, which lend a rich, textured appearance with their large, rounded flower clusters.  

The eight topiary sets of Disney Garden of Wonder, each spotlighting different characters, are:

• Mickey Mouse: this 3m-tall sculpture can be found welcoming visitors to Disney Garden of Wonder, located outside Floral Fantasy
• Steamboat Willie
• Winnie the Pooh 
• Snow White
• Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian from The Little Mermaid
• Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc.
• Carl Fredricksen, Russell, Dug and Kevin from Up
• Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Aliens from Toy Story

There is also a Flavours of Singapore zone, which celebrates Singapore’s culinary scene by playfully reimagining Disney characters with local food delights in vibrant floral displays. Shiok! Keep a look out for:

• Donald Duck with Chilli Crab
  • Chilli crab, a spicy signature local dish, makes the perfect match for the feisty and lovable Donald Duck in this display.    
• Stitch with Durian
  • What happens when a mischievous alien comes face-to-face with a durian? This display imagines the galactic troublemaker, Stitch, crash landing into a durian stall and taking a bold bite out of the spiky king of fruits!
• Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, with Ice Kachang
  • Pull up a chair and chope a seat with Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck! In this traditional shophouse display, the best pals are pictured chilling out with a bowl of ice kachang that is as sweet as their lifelong friendship!

As a bonus for Disney fans, discover Hidden Mickeys that will appear on the rain curtains in Floral Fantasy.

Gardens by the Bay Assistant CEO May Yeo said, “Many of us grew up with Disney and Pixar stories, and whether it is Mickey Mouse, Snow White, or Buzz Lightyear and Woody, these beloved characters have established a place in our hearts. This festive season, Gardens by the Bay is holding Disney Garden of Wonder in Singapore for the first time – where timeless characters are presented as colourful, charming topiaries in a stunning showcase that combines floral artistry with Disney magic. The intricate beauty of the topiaries, coupled with the familiarity of these fan-favourite characters, will appeal to both families and individuals across generations. Even with this exciting new showcase in Floral Fantasy, ticket prices remain the same for local residents.”

Visitors can round off their experience at the Floral Fantasy gift shop, which has been transformed with a new Disney-inspired look and various fun activities. Disney has teamed up with local brands for a wide selection of floral, Disney-themed merchandise, launching exclusively at Disney Garden of Wonder, including:

• Disney-themed cookies in an assortment of flavours such as Milo Dinosaur and Lychee Rose from Annabella Patisserie, that come in collectible tins and pouches with floral Disney designs
• Mickey-shaped pork Bak Kwa in tins with limited edition Mickey and Minnie designs, from Fragrance
• Plush toys, bags, water bottles, keychains, fans and more accessories inspired by Disney characters

And more collections to come. The Floral Fantasy gift shop is accessible to the public without tickets to Disney Garden of Wonder. 

In addition, for the first time ever, Disney icons Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are unveiling brand-new outfits inspired by Singapore's unique charm. Drawing inspiration from the Garden City, their stunning new ensembles feature elements referencing Singapore's National Flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim, adding a delightful local touch to their iconic appearances.

Fans and families will have the exciting opportunity to meet and greet special Disney friends dressed in their new Singapore-inspired designs on select dates in 2025. More details will be shared on Gardens by the Bay’s website.

More festive offerings at Christmas at the Gardens – Singapore’s largest Christmas celebration

While visiting Disney Garden of Wonder, ring in the holiday season with Christmas at the Gardens, Singapore’s largest festive celebration. Other highlights include:

Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show (2 December 2024 to 5 January 2025)

Flower Dome’s very first Christmas Train Show floral display takes inspiration from the cherished American holiday tradition of model trains under the Christmas tree. A spectacular display of trains wind past elaborate miniature landscapes featuring American landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. The journey continues with a charming vintage Swedish railbus, showcasing Sweden’s cultural icons, and concludes with a life-size replica of a SMRT train cabin at Raffles Place, adding a local touch.

Christmas Wonderland (29 November 2024 to 1 January 2025)

The 11^th edition returns bigger and brighter than ever, offering more immersive experiences, dazzling light displays, and vibrant festive performances. Perennial favourites like Blizzard Time are back, where snow falls in the tropics beneath a stunning 20m-tall Spalliera. There are four times more light installations than previous years, including a 6m-tall trio of Merry Bears and a 50m-long Walk of Lights tunnel.

A preview of the upcoming Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show took place today when His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden came to the Gardens during his first state visit to Singapore. At the preview, the King viewed a recreation of a charming 1950s Swedish railbus carriage, which carries authentic vintage artefacts on loan from the Swedish Railway Museum.

The Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show, which opens on December 2, is an all-new floral display that showcases elaborate model railways and landscapes spanning across the centre of Flower Dome, inspired by large-scale festive train shows overseas.

King Carl XVI Gustaf also opened the A Botanical Christmas with Carl Linnaeus exhibition, which pays tribute to the renowned Swedish botanist who devised the naming system of all living organisms in the natural world that is used today. 

The Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show and A Botanical Christmas with Carl Linnaeus are part of CHRISTMAS AT THE GARDENS, a slew of events this year-end at Gardens by the Bay to celebrate the yuletide season – its biggest consolidation of festive events ever. The full lineup includes:

1. Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show （滨海湾花园圣诞列车之旅）
2. A Botanical Christmas with Carl Linnaeus (卡尔·林奈的植物圣诞之旅)
3. Santa Meet and Greet
4. Disney Garden of Wonder (迪士尼奇妙花园)
5. Christmas Wonderland（圣诞仙境）

Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show

2 December 2024 to 5 January 2025
Flower Dome

In the United States, train shows are a beloved holiday tradition rooted in the early 20th-century practice of families placing model trains under their Christmas trees and building on the landscape year after year.

Experience this emotive slice of Americana in the Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show, where a painstakingly elaborate set-up of model trains chug past miniature versions of iconic American landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal and the Empire State Building. Presented in collaboration with the US Embassy in Singapore, some of these miniature landmarks, crafted from plant material, are on loan from the New York Botanical Garden and United States Botanic Garden. These national gardens hold their own festive train shows that are highly popular with families.

The rail journey continues on a charming note as visitors can board a vintage Swedish railbus with its iconic yellow-orange finish and rounded front, in a collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Singapore. Companions on this Swedish-themed trip include a wood-carved Dala moose and gnome-like Nisse – both essential parts of Sweden’s culture.

Finally, in collaboration with SMRT, the journey ends in Singapore with a life-size replica of an SMRT train cabin and the iconic façade of Raffles Place MRT station.

A Botanical Christmas with Carl Linnaeus

21 November 2024 to 5 January 2024
Flower Dome

Carl Linnaeus is the renowned Swedish botanist who is credited with binomial nomenclature, the revolutionary system of naming and grouping all living organisms that is used today. Think Homo sapiens – the scientific name for man, where the genus comes before the species.

Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists travelled to Sweden to see Linnaeus’ countryside estate Hammerby, and have tried to recreate what they saw down to the small details, such as the iconic “falun red” of his cottage. “Falun red” is the signature colour of Sweden’s wooden cottages, barns, and houses. It is named after the city of Falun, whose copper mines provided the by-products, mixed with rye flour and linseed oil, to produce the durable red dye.

The exhibition in Flower Dome bridges the contemplative solitude of Hammarby with the scholarly fervour of Linnaeus’ discussion room. Botanical specimens, journals, maps, scientific illustrations, and humble tools offer a glimpse into 18th-century scientific inquiry. Plants in his garden at Hammarby are replicated, and visitors can look forward to a picturesque landscape of delphiniums, geraniums, and salvias. This exhibition is presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Singapore.

Santa Meet and Greet

14 and 15 December 2024
Flower Dome

Santa Claus is coming to Gardens by the Bay – all the way from Finland! In partnership with Finnair, visitors to Flower Dome can meet and greet with Lapland’s Santa Claus for a festive photo opportunity to cherish.

Disney Garden of Wonder

1 December 2024 to 31 March 2025
Floral Fantasy

Disney Garden of Wonder debuts at Floral Fantasy with large-scale topiary and floral sculptures of beloved Disney characters. For the first time in Singapore, Gardens by the Bay will reimagine Disney and Pixar favourites as stunning horticultural displays. Organised in collaboration with Disney and supported by Singapore Tourism Board, there will be eight topiary sets featuring the following characters:

• Mickey Mouse
• Steamboat Willie
• Winnie the Pooh
• Snow White
• Ariel and Flounder from The Little Mermaid
• Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc.
• Carl Fredricksen, Russell and Dug from Up
• Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Aliens from Toy Story

There is also a Flavours of Singapore zone, featuring locally inspired takes on Disney characters in playful situations, alongside Singaporean culinary favourites:

• Donald Duck and Chilli Crab
• Stitch and Durian
• Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, and Ice Kachang

*Concept arts above is for illustrative purposes only.

Christmas Wonderland

29 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Supertree Grove and Outdoor Gardens

The 11th edition of the outdoor festive market Christmas Wonderland, presented by Trip.com and organised by Blue Sky Events, offers an expanded array of new and immersive experiences. This year’s event features more dazzling light displays and the return of fan favourites such as “snow” in the tropics during Blizzard Time. Carnival games, festive performances by local artists, and delectable food from popular F&B outlets round up the experience.

For more details, visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/christmas.

For the first time in Singapore, Disney and Pixar favourites such as Mickey Mouse and Friends, Disney Princess heroines, Toy Story characters and more are presented as charming topiaries at Gardens by the Bay’s Floral Fantasy.

Organised in collaboration with Disney and supported by Singapore Tourism Board, Disney Garden of Wonder opens at Floral Fantasy on 1 December 2024. It takes inspiration from Walt Disney World’s annual EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival in Florida, USA, where Disney characters are transformed into delightful horticultural displays. It will run until 31 March 2025.

Floral Fantasy, just a stone’s throw from Bayfront MRT, is an attraction that presents whimsical and creative landscapes of floral artistry that segue into each other through an intimate, meandering space.

Disney Garden of Wonder features eight topiary sets, each with different characters such as:

• Mickey Mouse
• Steamboat Willie
• Winnie the Pooh
• Snow White
• Ariel and Flounder from The Little Mermaid
• Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc.
• Carl Fredricksen, Russell and Dug from Up
• Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Aliens from Toy Story

There is also a Flavours of Singapore zone, featuring locally inspired takes on Disney characters in playful situations, alongside Singaporean culinary favourites. Keep a look out for:

• Donald Duck and Chilli Crab
• Stitch and Durian
• Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, and Ice Kachang

*Concept arts above are for illustrative purposes only.

A floral, Disney-themed pop-up store, with engaging activities and exclusive Disney-themed merchandise that will be launching at Garden of Wonder, rounds up the experience.

For people of all ages, admission tickets to Garden of Wonder are on sale now at www.gardensbythebay.com.sg. Tickets are priced at $12 for local resident adults and $8 for children or senior citizens, and include a round-trip shuttle service between Bayfront Plaza (location of Floral Fantasy) and Flower Dome. 

Gardens by the Bay’s flagship post-examination programme, Race to Sustainability!, has reached a new milestone with nearly 5,000 students participating this year, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for environmental stewardship among Singapore's youth. The event was officially flagged off by Guest of Honour, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-Charge of Trade Relations, Ms Grace Fu, this morning at Supertree Grove. This year’s Race to Sustainability! is a satellite event as part of the Clean & Green Singapore campaign, and in support of the Year of Public Hygiene.

Over the course of two days, upper primary and secondary students from 21 schools will navigate the Gardens and work in teams to complete a series of quests relating to biodiversity, climate change, conservation and sustainability.

This year also marks the first time Race to Sustainability! has been expanded to include tailored programmes for lower primary and tertiary students, such as guided tours and educational talks. In addition, there are free activities to engage the public on the topic of sustainability.

Gardens by the Bay CEO, Mr Felix Loh, said, “At Gardens by the Bay, we are founded on sustainability principles and driven by a commitment to educate and inspire. We are heartened by the increasing participation in our Race to Sustainability! programme, which demonstrates a growing interest in environmental issues among the younger generation. Through this event and the complementary activities open to the public, we hope to foster a shared sense of environmental responsibility and ignite a call to action amongst our community.”

Debut of "Unhappily Ever After” exhibition in Asia among free public activities

Showcased for the first time in Asia are 15 artworks - including five new pieces created specially for Race to Sustainability! - from the "Unhappily Ever After" series by New York-based animation artist Jeff Hong.

The artworks in this thought-provoking series reinterpret familiar Disney characters in stark, often dystopian settings, to highlight critical issues such as environmental destruction, animal rights and social inequalities, and their devastating impact on humans and wildlife. Displayed on recycled TV screens, the exhibition not only highlights the role of media in consumerism and environmental degradation, but also showcases how it can be repurposed as a powerful tool for environmental advocacy.

“Unhappily Ever After" is one of three public exhibitions at this year’s Race to Sustainability!. Also on display is a 7m-long installation titled "Sustainable Singapore: Today and Tomorrow", which highlights innovative solutions for sustainable living. The interactive exhibit is jointly presented by eight public agencies — Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), Housing & Development Board (HDB), Land Transport Authority (LTA), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), National Environment Agency (NEA), PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, Singapore Food Agency (SFA), and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). 

Additionally, the "Make a Wish for a Greener Future" display invites members of public to write their wishes on recycled textiles and tie them on metal trellises repurposed from the Gardens’ past floral displays, as a collective commitment to sustainability. 

Unveiling of Gardens by the Bay’s new solar-powered electric cruisers

Also making its debut today is a new fleet of solar-powered electric cruisers made possible with the sponsorship of S$1 million from OCBC. These eco-friendly vehicles can generate close to 70% of their operational power directly from solar energy.

The use of solar power is expected to significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, contributing to the goal of lowering overall energy consumption and reinforcing the commitment to sustainable practices throughout Gardens by the Bay.

Ms Helen Wong, Group CEO, OCBC, said, “Gardens by the Bay has been a strategic partner of ours since OCBC Skyway opened there in 2012. Over the years, we have worked closely with their team to create several community engagement activities. Just recently, OCBC staff volunteers organised a day of fun at the Gardens for close to 200 people: These were less-privileged families who are being supported by the Families100 Programme by OCBC. We therefore were quick to make up our minds when Gardens by the Bay approached us with a proposal to further enhance their sustainability efforts. This initiative is also entirely in line with OCBC’s climate action initiatives, which seek to move us towards a low-carbon world. The 60 solar panels to be installed on the cruisers will generate close to 70% of the power needed to ferry thousands of visitors. An impressive feat. We are happy to be able to contribute to the Gardens’ efforts in reducing carbon emissions.”

Gardens by the Bay’s first Australian-themed floral display Carnival of Flowers (澳洲花卉嘉年华) launched today with a mini “floral float” parade. Sixteen children from TOUCH Child Care (Clementi) marched alongside Gardens’ horticulturists and an Australian delegation that flew in specially from the city of Toowoomba in Queensland.

After all, the Carnival of Flowers floral display is presented in collaboration with the Toowoomba Regional Council and inspired by Australia’s longest running and most famous flower show – the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers – of which a float parade is an annual highlight. Following today’s launch, the floats made by the children in their art class, will be put on show in the floral display in Flower Dome, which will run until November 17.

Toowoomba is known in Australia as the Garden City, and in tribute to its reputation, over 8,000 plants from 30 varieties feature in Gardens by the Bay’s edition of Carnival of Flowers. These include exotic-looking native Australian species like the waratah and banksia, which are making their debut at Gardens by the Bay.

Carnival of Flowers was officially launched today by Senior Minister of State for Defence and Manpower Zaqy Mohamad, together with High Commissioner of Australia to Singapore His Excellency Allaster Cox, and Mayor of the Toowoomba Regional Council Geoff McDonald, who flew in to Singapore with a more than 30-person delegation from Toowoomba.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “This is Gardens by the Bay’s first Australian-themed display, and we are delighted to partner with the Toowoomba Regional Council, host to the longest running flower show in Australia, to introduce the beautiful blooms from their Garden City to our visitors.”

Mayor of Toowoomba Regional Council Geoff McDonald said, “The Carnival of Flowers display at Gardens by the Bay is an extraordinary way to celebrate the 75^th anniversary of Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers, Australia’s reining major tourism event. We are honoured to have our region showcased at the world’s premier horticultural attraction. Since 2017, Toowoomba Region and Gardens by the Bay have built a strong relationship, committed to horticultural excellence. As a gateway to Queensland’s agricultural heartland, Toowoomba offers exceptional culinary experiences, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, just 90 minutes from Brisbane International Airport. We invite you to explore our region’s unique offerings and discover the beauty of Queensland.” 

Exotic flora and spectacular floats

Many Australian plants have unusual forms due to their adaptations to endure harsh environmental conditions such as arid climates, poor soils, and wildlife threats. Some of the unique native blooms featured in Carnival of Flowers include grevillea, which has a spider-like structure with long, nectar-rich styles replacing traditional petals, and the bottlebrush-resembling pink mulla mulla, which has cone-shaped, cylindrical flower heads densely packed with tiny, soft flowers. Meanwhile, the waratah is often compared to a pincushion because of its dome-like head of tightly-packed tubular flowers.

Visitors can also look forward to 14 different varieties of kangaroo paws – the largest selection ever on show – in uncommon hues like blue-green and purple. This whimsical plant has woolly, tubular flowers that resemble a kangaroo’s curved fingers.

In a nod to the Toowoomba Carnival of Flower’s annual float parade, there will be spectacular floral floats crafted from preserved flowers in the floral display. These include a Ferris wheel more than 4m in height and a rotating carousel that breaks from tradition – the animals featured are those found on an Australian farm!

The floral display will also be adorned with almost 400 wooden ornaments of Australian flora and fauna, such as kangaroos, echidnas, platypuses and eucalyptus leaves – jointly painted by students from Singapore’s Canberra Primary School and Toowoomba’s Rangeville State School, in a virtual collaboration.

First Nations art and larger than life paper flowers

Australia’s First Nations culture will be conveyed through art specially created by Toowoomba and Bunya Mountains artists for the floral display. The 3m-tall Genestreaming Journey Sculpture is a gift to Gardens by the Bay. The sculpture is a giant evolutionary tree highlighting deep time connections between species over millions of years. Shaped like a budding flower, it features First Nations art on the inside and naturalist art on the outside. It is a collaboration between artists Ben Beeton and Mali Moir, First Nations artists, engineers and Toowoomba artists. These sculptures are a nationwide initiative in Australia which celebrate First Nations culture, scientific discoveries, and conservation. This is the first time that a Genestreaming Journey Sculpture is being exhibited beyond Australian shores. It symbolises the friendship between Singapore and Australia. 

The second piece of art are digital artworks by Australia First Nations Mununjali artist Kim Walmsley, featuring her interpretation of Songlines – a route through landscapes that is embedded with the geographical, mythological, and cultural information of First Nations people. Her artwork will be showcased on areas such as the totem poles in the yarning circle – a traditional gathering place used by First Nations people to share their experiences and build relationships – recreated in the floral display.

The floral display also features larger-than-life sculptures of native Australian blooms crafted from paper and other materials by Singaporean paper artist Pei Li (also known as PeiPer). This is her first exploration of Australia’s unique flora, including the Golden Wattle, the country’s national flower known for its fluffy, brush-like appearance. Each flower of the Golden Wattle has approximately 1,680 stamens, and Pei Li meticulously sculpted each stamen from a mix of thread, clay and wire, then colour-sprayed them individually, before fixing them to the core.

Please refer to Annex for highlights of unusual plants of Australia in the Carnival of Flowers floral display.

Gina Mae Alba, a Filipino domestic worker who has been working in Singapore for the past 30 years, has been visiting Gardens by the Bay on her days off for years. This month, for the first time, she had a first-hand look at how one of the Gardens’ floral displays is put together when she volunteered in the set-up of the Gardens by the Bahay Kubo: A Fiesta of Orchids (花园家园: 菲律宾兰花庆典) floral display in Cloud Forest, which opened today. Not only are the orchids endemic to the Philippines regarded as some of the most beautiful in the world, but the country is also home to some of the world's most diverse orchid species.

Working alongside Gina was Filipino student Fibi Dela Cruz, an undergraduate at the National University of Singapore. Most of her friends in Singapore are not familiar with the Bahay Kubo – a traditional stilted house that bears strong similarities to the kampung house – and she is looking forward to sharing this little-known aspect of Filipino culture with Singaporeans.

They are among some 20 diverse Filipinos including domestic workers who volunteer with HOME (Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics) and students in the National University of Singapore’s Filipino Cultural Club – who helped to put together the orchid display alongside Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists.

Beyond a simple dwelling, the Bahay Kubo – which takes centre stage in the floral display amidst a landscape of orchids – is synonymous with the Filipino culture of the community coming together to help, as all the men of a neighbourhood will lift a Bahay Kubo on their shoulders and manually relocate it when a family wants to move.

Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng, opened the Gardens by the Bahay Kubo: A Fiesta of Orchids display today. With the floral display a collaboration between Gardens by the Bay and the Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore, Minister was joined by the Ambassador of the Philippines to Singapore, His Excellency Medardo G. Macaraig, as well as the Secretary of Migrant Workers, Department of Migrant Workers, Mr Hans Leo Cacdac. This year also marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and the Philippines.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Philippines is well-known amongst orchidologists to be home to some of the most beautiful orchids in the world. Naturally, the horticulturists at Gardens by the Bay were excited to bring a display of the country’s orchids to our Cloud Forest. We hope some of the Filipino elements like the Bahay Kubo will be an interesting introduction for our visitors to the rich culture of our neighbour, and also engender a warm home-away-from-home feeling for our local Filipino community .”

There are more than 40 taxa of orchids which can trace their origins to the Philippines in the floral display, including iconic varieties from the Vanda, Dendrobium, and Phalaenopsis genera. A highlight of the floral display is the limited-time blooming of the Waling waling or Vanda sanderiana, a coveted orchid species affectionately known as the Queen of Philippine flowers, that is even worshipped as a Diwata, or fairy, by the indigenous Bagobo people.

Other exquisite orchids on display include the Phalaenopsis schilleriana, one of the most widely sought-after and cultivated species in the genus and an ancestor of many well-known pink moth orchid hybrids today, as well Trichoglottis atropurpurea, commonly known as the dark-purple Trichoglotti due to the striking purple of the flower’s labellum, which resembles a tongue.

Please refer to the Annex for visuals and more information on these orchid species.

The Philippines is also a haven for biodiversity with diverse fauna. One of the most notable is its national bird, the Philippine eagle. Widely considered the largest eagle in the world in terms of length and wing surface area, life-sized models of the majestic bird are in the floral display. Other animals of the Philippines, such as the heavily built carabao and tiny tarsier (called “the world’s smallest monkey”), are also featured.

On loan from the collection of the Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore are several traditional artefacts that embody Filipino culture. These include kiping chandeliers – made from arranging sheets of rice paper to replicate the appearance of real leaves, ornamental lanterns called parol that are put up during the Christmas season (which begins in September in the Philippines), and traditional hand-woven mats called baníg. Also on show are the sungka, a traditional Philippine game that is played with small stones, beans, or seeds, and rows of holes in the earth or a board – not far from Singapore’s congkak, and the kulintang, an instrument consisting of bronze gongs on a wooden board.

The opening of Gardens by the Bay’s annual Mid-Autumn Festival (滨海花园庆中秋) was marked by Minister for National Development and Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration Desmond Lee lighting up a two-storey tall nostalgia-themed lantern set designed by popular local illustrator Lee Kow Fong.

Floating on Dragonfly Lake, Celebrations(同欢童乐蜻蜓月)lantern set incorporates over 23 elements of a traditional Mid-Autumn Festival, including colourful cellophane lanterns and old school treats like gem biscuits and piggy biscuits.

Drawing inspiration from the nostalgic playtime in one’s childhood, the festival features nine intricately designed lantern sets and the largest-ever Flower Carpet. All of these draw inspiration from Singapore’s past — from the Dragon and Pelican playgrounds to the five-foot ways — that inspire reminiscence, or for the young, encourage a journey of discovery into what growing up was like before.

Minister Lee also flagged off a Mass Lantern Walk, where members of the public lit the way with lanterns featuring Ah Guo’s signature characters, as they followed a vibrant dragon dance troupe towards Supertree Grove.

At Supertree Grove, Minister Lee joined Mayor of Central Singapore District Denise Phua, Mayor of Northeast Singapore District Desmond Choo, Mayor of Southeast Singapore District Fahmi Aliman, and over 50 members of the community to place the final plants into the Flower Carpet to declare it open to public.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “This year, Gardens by the Bay’s lantern displays and the return of the Flower Carpet are united by the theme of nostalgic children’s play. For many of my generation who remember the old days, it will be an experience tinged with reminiscence, while for the younger generation, it will be one of discovery of the fun of ages past. We hope this will bring about meaningful cross-generation conversations during a special time when friends and family traditionally gather, as they share with each other their different experiences.”

A First for Ah Guo: From Illustration to Three-dimensional Lantern

To bring out the theme of nostalgia, Gardens by the Bay partnered the artist Lee — popularly known as Ah Guo — as his whimsical art works often depict scenes and cultural celebrations familiar to Singaporeans. This marks the first time Ah Guo’s illustrations have taken on a three-dimension incarnation.

Ah Guo’s signature characters — Kiddo (小不点), Momo (默默), and Xiao P (小P) — along with a new character created specifically for Gardens by the Bay, the floral shirt-donning rabbit Bin Bin (滨滨, a play on the first word in the Chinese name for Gardens by the Bay), have also been incorporated into the other lantern sets.

These include The Shophouse (骑楼下的中秋) at Golden Garden, which invites visitors to take a stroll along a pathway lined with traditional shophouses and their five footways, and The Dragon Playground (童年游乐场), a lantern set at Supertree Grove, which also transforms into a stage for free cultural performances on selected weekends.

Wishes Beneath the Moonlight (大嘴鹈鹕的美好世界) features the now-demolished Pelican playground of Dover Road, which is still a nostalgic icon of many Singaporeans’ childhoods. Vertical Mid-Autumn (小不点竖中秋) is inspired by the traditional practice of hanging lanterns on high bamboo poles.

For an experience of how other countries celebrate Mid-Autumn, stop by the Joyful Childhood Memories: Folk Games from Korea (快乐的童年回忆：韩国民间游戏) lantern set, presented by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea.

In another first for Ah Guo, fans can spot his Mid-Autumn Festival illustrations covering a carriage on the MRT that runs on either the North-South or East-West lines.

Cultural activities, fun-filled carnival games and a diverse array of delectable street food round up the Mid-Autumn Festival experience at
Gardens by the Bay. 

Win exclusive Ah Guo merchandise and meet the man himself

Mid-Autumn Festival 2024 at Gardens by the Bay is supported by Stellar Ace, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, EVA Air and Singapore Press Holdings’ SPH Media’s Chinese Media Group

Nostalgia Blooms: Gardens by the Bay's Flower Carpet Returns

The theme of nostalgia continues with another highlight of this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival — the return of the Flower Carpet (花毯). This year’s Flower Carpet depicts Singapore's iconic Dragon Playground surrounded by a vibrant border of national flower, the Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim. For the first time, visitors can immerse themselves in the installation by walking on a specially designed pathway.

Spanning 44m in diameter — roughly the length of two tennis courts placed end-to-end — it is created with vibrant chrysanthemums in red, green, pink and yellow of eight different cultivars, as well as Cyathula prostrata, known for its resilience to outdoor elements. 

This year's Flower Carpet is 1.5 times the size of last year’s inaugural edition and used 75,000 live plants. It was put together through the collective efforts of over 20 horticulturists and more than 250 of Gardens by the Bay’s volunteers across 10 days.

One key difference is that this year’s Flower Carpet is made up entirely of potted plants unlike floral carpets in other countries, which traditionally use cut flowers. While the choice of plants, such as chrysanthemums, is similar, potted plants last longer and are more sustainable, as the plants can be replanted in the Gardens’ other spaces after the end of the Flower Carpet. In response to feedback from the public on last year’s edition, walkways have been incorporated into the design this year, so that visitors can walk into the floral fabric for an immersive experience, which makes for better photo opportunities.

The Flower Carpet is open for public viewing for free from 10am to 10pm from 5 September to 15 September. In addition to the 2.5m viewing platform in front of the Flower Carpet, visitors can enjoy the entire display from the OCBC Skyway or the World of Plants outdoor gardens.

Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Carpet is made possible with the support of Tote Board.

Mid-Autumn Festival 2024 at Gardens by the Bay

Date: Wednesday, 4 September to Sunday, 22 September 2024

Time: 6 pm to 10 pm

Location: Gardens by the Bay. Admission is free.

For more information, visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/midautumn.

Please refer to: 

Annex A: Lantern Sets

Annex B: Cultural Performances

Annex C: Cultural Activities

Annex D: Gardens by the Bay X The Capitol Kempinski Singapore mooncakes

The UNESCO World Heritage-recognised Kew Gardens in London; Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania with its storied history dating back to the 1700s; and closer to home, Shanghai Botanical Garden, one of the largest gardens in all of China.  Atlanta Botanical Garden, often named among the best botanic gardens in the USA; Australia’s oldest scientific institution, Botanic Gardens of Sydney; and Cornell Botanic Gardens, a well-respected research garden whose verdant spaces serve as outdoor classrooms for students at the prestigious Cornell University.

These are some of the renowned gardens in the world whose leaders are converging on Singapore this week for the 8^th Global Botanic Gardens Congress jointly organised by the Botanic Gardens Conservation International and Singapore Botanic Gardens. In the lead up to the congress which opens tomorrow, six leaders came together today to speak at Gardens by the Bay’s inaugural symposium, How Gardens Around the Globe Stay Relevant in Today’s World. The symposium took place at Floral Fantasy and more than 100 people from the horticultural industry in Singapore attended the closed-door event.

The speakers at the symposium were:

• Ms Mary Pat Matheson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta Botanical Garden (USA)
• Mr Simon Duffy, Chief Executive of Botanic Gardens of Sydney (Australia)
• Dr Christopher P. Dunn, Elizabeth Newman Wilds Executive Director of Cornell Botanic Gardens (USA)
• Mr Paul B. Redman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens (USA)
• Dr Richard Deverell, Director of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (UK)
• Ms Yan Wei, Director of Shanghai Botanical Garden (China)

Never before in Singapore has there been a gathering of top names in the horticulture industry to share their thoughts on a topic common to all gardens, no matter their location. Gardens around the world have different purposes, and as such face different challenges. Yet the common objective that unites many gardens is that they all aim to engage the community. But how do gardens do this, in an era where people, particularly the young, are deeply involved in a crowded digital space that can seem distant from the natural world?

There was a lively panel discussion that followed the speeches, moderated by Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh. Gardens by the Bay’s Corporate Advisor Dr Kiat W. Tan rounded off the symposium with closing remarks.

Wander amidst recreations of the famous landscapes of Claude Monet’s home and gardens in France, such as graceful water lilies floating on a pond, or pretty scenes of blue delphiniums and purple foxgloves. Then segue into a world of changing lights and digital projections, classical music and the scents of nature – where Monet’s life and art become larger than life. For the first time in Gardens by the Bay’s history, the horticultural and the digital meld together in a one-of-a-kind showcase – at 2,650 sqm, it is more than three times the size of a regular floral display – that has never been attempted before.

Impressions of Monet (印象莫奈), a tribute to the master of French Impressionism, comprises two distinct but complementary elements – the Impressions of Monet: The Garden (印象莫奈：花园) floral display in Flower Dome, and a multi-sensorial immersive exhibition Impressions of Monet: The Experience (印象莫奈：体验) in the space adjoining Flower Dome.

Jointly presented by Gardens by the Bay and NEON, Impressions of Monet was officially launched by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat today. Impressions of Monet: The Garden will run until September 17, while Impressions of Monet: The Experience will continue for a limited period. Singapore residents enjoy complimentary entry to Impressions of Monet: The Experience from Mondays to Thursdays with a Flower Dome ticket purchase.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Claude Monet is an artist who holds special significance for a garden like us – as much as he was a master artist, he was also a passionate gardener who translated his love for plants into his famous paintings. As a show garden, Gardens by the Bay is in the unique position where we can bring out the beauty of Monet’s lovingly curated gardens and combine this horticultural experience with a complementary digital one through our collaboration with NEON. Collectively, we hope this will amplify Monet’s life and artworks for new audiences in a refreshing way.”

Executive Chairman & Group CEO of NEON, Ron Tan said, “We are excited to once again collaborate with Gardens by the Bay, to celebrate the art and life of the master of Impressionism, Claude Monet. With the recent accolades of being voted as the eighth best attraction in the world, Asia’s number one attraction and the world’s most photographed garden on Instagram, there is no better place in the world for us to bring to life the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet, located thousands of miles away in Giverny, France, than right here in Gardens by the Bay, Singapore. Together with our valued partners, we welcome visitors to join us in celebrating the beauty of art and the power it holds to connect people across cultures and continents, inspiring the visitors in Singapore and beyond.”

Impressions of Monet: The Garden

Impressions of Monet: The Garden is a floral display that recreates the landscapes of Monet’s renowned gardens, Clos Normand and the Water Garden, that formed the land of the iconic pink house where he lived in for 43 years. The scenes of Clos Normand and the Water Garden were the subject of many of his paintings.

The floral display features a curated plant palette of over 18,000 plants across 40 species, closely mirroring those that would be seen at Monet’s gardens during peak of summer, such as cleomes, delphiniums, digitalis, geraniums, hollyhocks, and sunflowers.

Monet’s early paintings featured vibrant colours and clear details, with short, quick brushstrokes capturing light and atmosphere. As he aged, cataracts blurred his vision and dulled his perception of colours, leading him to use broader brushstrokes and more muted tones. In the floral display, this change is subtly reflected in the planting palette in front of his house, where flowers of paler hues are closer to the house, which gradually transition to flowers with darker, more vivid colours the further from the house. This is a botanical analogy for Monet’s deteriorating eyesight and the impact on his artistic vision, as well as a tribute to his enduring dedication to his art despite this.

Water lilies, which inspired more than 250 oil paintings in Monet’s famous Water Lilies series, are a highlight. Eight varieties among the 10 on display were sourced from the longstanding Latour-Marliac nursery in France – the same place the artist first procured his water lilies all the way back in 1894. This is also the first time that water lilies are featured in a Flower Dome floral display. The green Japanese bridge in the Water Garden, another iconic element associated with Monet, is also recreated.

A replica of Monet’s pink house, measuring 4 metres tall and 9 metres across, takes prominent place in the centre of Flower Dome. Visitors can step in to explore the painter’s kitchen, where he spent time with his family, and dining room, where he entertained other creatives such as fellow artists, musicians and writers. There are also recreations of Monet’s salon and reading room. Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, which still stand today, is the second most visited tourist attraction in the region of Normandy, France.

Impressions of Monet: The Garden is supported by Bloomberg and official airline partner Turkish Airlines. Visitors may also stand a chance to win a pair of air tickets to France, sponsored by Turkish Airlines, when they share their best photos of the floral display on Instagram.

Impressions of Monet: The Garden

Impressions of Monet: The Experience is a multi-sensory experience celebrating the works and life of Claude Monet and his contemporaries through a dynamic display of light, colour, sound and fragrance across picturesque spaces.

For example, in the space called Vivid Dreams, visitors are introduced to Impressionism, where they learn about the movement and its main players such as Camille Pissarro, Edouard Manet, Gustave Caillebotte, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne and Edgar Degas, as well as their art.

When visitors step into the space called Night at the Lily Pond, they are ensconced by a night landscape, with images of wisterias and water lilies projected on the walls, and glimmers of light create glistening reflections on the waters of the water lily pond. This is an interpretation of a scene that enchanted Monet in his own gardens, and which became a theme prominently portrayed in many of his waterscape paintings.

Impressions of Monet: The Experience culminates in the Immersive Gallery space, where visitors are treated to a stunning display of Impressionist works accompanied by classical scores, and nature-inspired scents reminiscent of the lush gardens and vast landscapes which inspired them to create their timeless masterpieces.

Visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/monet for more details.

The sixth edition of the Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert (NDC) will be one with several firsts. The concert, which will take place on Sunday, 4 August, is the first official ‘live’ performance of the NDP 2024 theme song Not Alone by Benjamin Kheng. Themed Our Home, Our Heart, Our Singapore, the concert held at The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay also features an exciting line-up of local artistes, a myriad of family-friendly games and activities, and a vibrant fireworks display. Admission is free.

As Guest of Honour of the concert for the first time, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam alongside Ms Jane Ittogi will do a self-introduction in sign language, before leading the audience in reciting the pledge during the finale, as members from the Singapore Association for the Deaf accompany with sign language. In addition, performing groups in the community such as Diverse Abilities Dance Collective, will mark their first appearance at the concert, as they perform together with local artistes.

Hosted by popular audio personalities, Mediacorp 987’s Avery Yeo and Mediacorp YES 933’s Hazelle Teo, this year’s concert will be headlined by renowned songstress Olivia Ong who is set to serenade audiences with 如燕 (Like a Swallow), the iconic theme song for Mediacorp’s hit drama The Little Nyonya, as well as her latest tune 光影 (Azure) in a special debut. Meanwhile, homegrown musicians Shabir and Yung Raja, who have showcased their talents beyond our shores in regional Indian film soundtracks, will take to the stage to respectively perform their latest tracks The Name Is, in an NDC exclusive, and High Fashion.

President Tharman said: “This year’s concert features Singaporean performers with a diverse array of styles and backgrounds. Music has a unique power to open our minds and unite us. Occasions like this National Day Concert are valuable as they deepen our respect and appreciation for each other.”

Mr Niam Chiang Meng, Chairman of Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate on this meaningful concert for the sixth time, offering Singaporeans a specially curated concert featuring a wide ensemble of local talents and a range of activities for all ages. As the national media network, Mediacorp offers homegrown performers opportunities to showcase their talents across its platforms. This is aligned to Gardens by the Bay's core mission as a national garden and an accessible and inclusive leisure space for all Singaporeans to bond, regardless of their backgrounds. I look forward to everyone joining us to celebrate Singapore’s 59^th birthday together!”

Two hours of non-stop entertainment featuring local artistes and community groups

Concertgoers can also look forward to riveting renditions of past NDP theme songs such as NDP 2022’s Stronger Together by Taufik Batisah and NDP2021’s Breathing City by Sezairi, both winners of Singapore Idol.

Catch fan favourites We Are Young and Wonderwall, by music duo Jack & Rai who will be supported by an inclusive live band from Faith Music Centre, a social enterprise that conducts music courses for individuals, including persons with disabilities. Meanwhile, vocalist Amni Musfirah will enchant crowds with the popular Singapore ballad Bunga Sayang, accompanied by an uplifting dance sequence from the Diverse Abilities Dance Collective — a community initiative led by local company Maya Dance Theatre which aims to foster inclusivity through dance.

The celebratory mood sets to deepen as seasoned musicians Liu Ling Ling, Rahimah Rahim and John Klass bring a medley of beloved Singapore folk songs, including Singapore Town, 小人物的心声 (The Voice of the Ordinary People), Munneru Vaalibaa (Move Forward, Youth), and Geylang Sipaku Geylang (Come Home, Let’s Go Home), with backings by the lively rhythms of local band The Vasantham Boyz.

In addition, Mediacorp artistes Bonnie Loo, Desmond Ng, Jeremy Chan and JJ Neo will join hands with the talents from Mediacorp’s reality singing competitions Juara Mic Junior and Yaar Antha Star for a fun performance of K-pop boy band BTS’ catchy track Butter.

Please refer to Annex A for the bios of the hosts and performers.

Wide array of pre-concert festivities to kickstart the celebrations

There is also a wide range of pre-concert festivities lined up from 4.30pm, where concertgoers can groove to the beat of live song covers, and enjoy a wide range of activities including go-kart races and nostalgic carnival games. Additionally, purchase of Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert 2024 #SGYesWeCan tote bags are available on-site, with proceeds going towards Gardens by the Bay’s community outreach initiative Gift of Gardens, which allows the disadvantaged and disabled to enjoy the cooled conservatories for free.

The event is organised with the support of community partners Dads for Life, NTUC, People’s Association and SAFRA, who will be providing activities and opportunities for Singaporeans from all walks of life to enjoy the celebrations.

Please refer to Annex B for more details on the pre-concert activities and performances.

The Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert 2024 will take place from 4.30pm onwards on Sunday, 4 August at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay. The concert will also air on mewatch, Channel 5 and Mediacorp Entertainment on YouTube on Sunday, 17 August, from 7.30pm to 9.00pm.

For more information, please visit mediacorp.sg/ndc.

A Tree of Laziness, an orchid that resembles a monkey’s face, and a flirtatious flower that appeals to hummingbirds by day but beckons to bats by night. A bear that looks like it is wearing spectacles, and a beautiful bird so revered that “resplendent” is part of its name.

These may sound like characters from a work of fiction, but they are real elements of cloud forests – and brought to life in The Hidden Forest (秘境森林) at Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest. The latest revamp to the cooled conservatory, The Hidden Forest is an immersive digital art experience that aims to educate as much as entertain.

The Hidden Forest is a collaboration with Japanese creative company NAKED, INC. Playing out on the third and fourth levels of Cloud Forest, the experience portrays the interconnectedness of plant and animal life in the unique and layered ecosystems of cloud forests. Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing launched The Hidden Forest today.

The idea of The Hidden Forest was mooted on a plant sourcing trip by Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists together with some members of the Singapore media to Latin America in 2023. During a visit to Wilson Botanical Gardens in Costa Rica – a country renowned for its cloud forests – a discussion between horticulturists of both countries centered on ways the biodiversity of cloud forests could be made known to more people.

Gardens by the Bay Assistant Director of Conservatory Operations Clarice Xue, one of the horticulturists on that trip, said, “Cloud forests are not easily accessible places and remain remote to most people. Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest was created to bring the flora of cloud forests closer to more people, to raise awareness of the fascinating plant life there which are incredibly vulnerable to climate change, and The Hidden Forest is our latest attempt to do this via a digital platform. Through an immersive and interactive installation, we can now present a more complete showcase of the rich biodiversity and critically endangered plants that we cannot otherwise bring in.”

The fragile, fascinating ecosystems of cloud forests

Cloud forests, scattered across Central and South America, southern Mexico and parts of the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, eastern Africa, and New Guinea, are found between 500m and 3,500m above sea level, and form only 1 per cent of forests in the world.

Characterised by limited sunlight and high humidity, cloud forests are home to rich biodiversity that cannot be found anywhere else, and the plants and animals live together in symbiosis, from feeding the other to helping to ensure each other’s survival. The fragile ecosystems in cloud forests are under threat of climate change and the impact of human activities.

When visitors enter The Hidden Forest, movement across the darkened space stimulates the growth of myriad plant life found in cloud forests, from the Cecropia tree, nicknamed the Tree of Laziness because it is a food source for sloths, to flowers from the Passiflora genus, whose bright colours attract hummingbirds in the daytime, and whose scent appeals to bats at night. Other plants that visitors will see grow in front of their eyes are the distinctive Monkey-faced Orchid (Dracula simia), which aside from its unusual appearance, also bears the moniker of the vampire because of its elongated fang-like sepals and citrusy orange scent, and the Red Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia sanguinea), which has become extinct in the wild.

As visitors move down to the next level, they encounter more of the animals of cloud forests up close. Touch the walls, and a sloth making its slow way along a branch of a Tree of Laziness appears. The sloth also helps to pollinate the tree through defecation of the seeds when it descends to the ground once a week. Spot an Andean Bear, which is also called the spectacled bear because of the cream-coloured fur circles around its eyes, an omnivorous bear reliant on bromeliads for food and the “cup” formed by their rosette-shaped leaves for water. A vibrantly-coloured Resplendent Quetzal may fly past – a rare opportunity to spot a threatened bird species that is considered one of the world’s most beautiful.

The launch of new 5G digital learning trails

Today, Minister Chan, along with 18 students from Nan Chiau Primary School, also tried Gardens by the Bay’s new 5G digital learning trails, produced in partnership with M1 and with the support from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). Like The Hidden Forest, the digital learning trails are an effort to make the natural world come alive for more people, and in particular, bring students closer to nature and sustainability concepts.

With the 5G digital learning trails, Gardens by the Bay’s indoor educational programmes for primary and secondary school students are now fully digital. Primary and secondary schools can sign up for a facilitated programme which includes the specially curated 5G digital learning trail. Students will each be provided with an iPad to participate in various digital activities that cover Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.

The limits of Gardens by the Bay’s educational programmes can be stretched by augmenting the user experience with rich media in a virtual interactive environment. With 5G, these activities can use rich media like augmented reality and high-resolution videos to better engage students, which will help them appreciate concepts more readily. Tapping on a 5G network also allows for group games and activities to be conducted seamlessly.

Students will learn concepts such as plant pollination, plant adaptions and the many uses of plants. For example, augmented reality will help them visualise how pitcher plants – common in cloud forests – attract flying and crawling insects to fall into their “cups”. Through the app, students can get up close to various parts of the pitcher plant, such as looking into its “cup” to see the acidic enzyme solution that will eventually digest the fallen insects, to enhance their understanding.

From just five petals to more than 90; from typical pinks and reds, to two-toned, to a shade some horticulturists call “black” – over 16,000 roses of nearly 70 varieties feature in Gardens by the Bay’s Rose Romance floral display. The fifth edition of Rose Romance opened today in Flower Dome and runs until June 30.

This year's Rose Romance, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Singapore, also explores the rich cultural heritage of Türkiye, influenced by the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome.

The floral display was officially opened by Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for Education and Foreign Affairs Dr. Maliki Osman, alongside the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Singapore His Excellency Mehmet Burçin Gönenli.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh said, “Gardens by the Bay strives to bring the world to our visitors through the ever-changing floral displays in Flower Dome. In our second collaboration with the Turkish Embassy, we are excited to spotlight Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage and horticulture, through showcasing the Damask rose for the first time, as well as recreations of their architectural treasures. The Damask rose only blooms once a year, and together with the unusual ‘black’ roses we have brought in, are rare horticultural experiences in Singapore we hope visitors will enjoy.”

Ambassador of Türkiye to Singapore H.E. Mehmet Burçin Gönenli said, “In light of last year’s successful Tulipmania display, we are delighted to partner once again with Gardens by the Bay in presenting Türkiye’s natural, cultural and historical beauties in Singapore. This year marks the 55^th year of bilateral relations and the 10^th anniversary of the signing of the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Singapore and Türkiye. Rose Romance floral display takes place against that backdrop. We look forward to welcoming our Singaporean friends, future couples and families to this captivating and romantic Rose Romance floral display throughout June.” 

Nearly 70 rose varieties in a spectrum of forms and colours

Türkiye produces approximately 65 per cent of the world’s demand for rose oil, as the cultivation of Damask roses is an industry in Isparta, a southwestern province known as “Rose City”. In addition to Damask roses, Rose Romance has also brought in the “black” roses of Türkiye. These blooms are so-named because of the dark, rich hue of their velvety petals.

In addition, there are other unique roses on show, which diverge from the conventional appearance of a rose. The Rosa ‘Sunshine Babylon Eyes’ is a striking variety with just five petals, yet featuring a vibrant centre of pink and yellow, that creates an illusion of a flower within a flower. On the other end of the petal spectrum, there is Rosa ‘Leonardo da Vinci’, named after the artist and which boasts of over 90 petals in a striking shade of deep pink.

The roses are complemented by flowers such as delphiniums, lavender, carnations, and petunias.

Bringing Türkiye’s historical and geographical wonders to Flower Dome

In consultation with the Turkish Embassy, the perhaps lesser-known side of Türkiye is brought to life with detailed recreations of the country’s historical and geographical wonders. These include the Roman columns of Hierapolis, a prosperous spa town during the Hellenistic period, alongside the Antonine Fountain from Sagalassos, once a thriving city of the Roman Empire. Visitors are transported back to when ancient Greece and subsequently Rome, once shaped Türkiye.

There is also the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pamukkale – which translates to “Cotton Castle” in English – a sight beyond imagination where nature causes the formation of cottony-white travertine terraces contrasted against azure spring waters.

Visitors can also experience quintessential Turkish architecture through a recreated Bodrum house with its distinctive, white-washed exteriors and blue accents, a style which is emblematic of Türkiye’s Aegean coast. A traditional rose distillery setup offers a glimpse into Isparta’s rose oil production, while a perfume storefront, decorated with authentic Turkish items, brings to the display a vibrant marketplace atmosphere.

For a limited period, Rosense skincare products made from Isparta roses, will be available for the first time in Singapore at Gardens by the Bay’s retail shop. 

Win air tickets to Istanbul

Visitors can stand a chance to win a pair of tickets to Istanbul through a social media contest courtesy of Turkish Airlines, the official airline partner of Rose Romance. To participate, they can post their favourite photos of themselves at Rose Romance on Instagram, tag @gardensbythebay, and share what they loved most about the floral display in the caption. 

Rose Romance

Date: Sunday, 2 June to Sunday, 30 June 2024
Time: 9am to 9pm
Venue: Flower Dome (Admission charges apply)

For more details, please visit https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/rose

Please refer to the Annex for more information on:

●       Rose varieties of note

●       Social media contest

It’s time to delve into the fascinating world of emotions as Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival (滨海湾花园儿童节) opened today in an exciting collaboration with Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 (脑筋急转弯2)! The launch event was graced by Guest of Honour Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

Happening at the iconic Supertree Grove, Children’s Festival is the only Inside Out 2-themed outdoor carnival in Southeast Asia with large-scale installations. Children can learn about their feelings through play at the various interactive installations inspired by beloved Inside Out 2 characters, ahead of the 13 June release of Inside Out 2 in Singapore.

Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley who’s about to begin high school, just as headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! The core Emotions Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear and Disgust, are joined by new arrivals Anxiety, Envy, Ennui and Embarrassment.

Visitors can also look forward to a special edition of the nightly Garden Rhapsody light and sound show during the duration of Children’s Festival. Titled The Medley of Emotions, the lights on the Supertrees as well as the Memory Orbs within the Kaleidoscope of Memories installation will synchronise their illumination and change colours in harmony with the Inside Out soundtrack every evening at 7.45pm and 8.45pm.

In addition, there will be outdoor screenings of Disney and Pixar movies on the first two weekends, Inside Out 2-themed merchandise, carnival games, fringe activities and more! Visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/childrensfestival for information.

Gardens by the Bay's Children's Festival 2024 is supported by Singapore Tourism Board and Tote Board.

This year’s Children’s Festival is also held in conjunction with the month-long National Family Festival, led by the Families for Life Council and its partners across the people, public and private sectors to celebrate families and to encourage everyone to prioritise family time.

The six Inside Out 2-themed installations at Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival

Come the June holidays, get ready to delve into the fascinating world of emotions as Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival (滨海湾花园儿童节) returns for its 10^th edition – this time, featuring an exciting collaboration with Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 (脑筋急转弯2)!

Kicking off on 25 May at Supertree Grove, this will be the only Inside Out 2-themed outdoor carnival in Southeast Asia with large-scale installations. Children can learn about their feelings through play at the various interactive areas inspired by beloved Inside Out 2 characters, such as Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear and Disgust – alongside new Emotions Anxiety, Envy, Ennui and Embarrassment! Get in touch with your emotions ahead of the 13 June release of Inside Out 2 in Singapore.

Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley who’s about to begin high school, just as headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! Joining the core Emotions is a group of new arrivals perfectly suited for the teenage years!

Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival runs until 22 June and most of the activities are free.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “We all want our children to be happy and healthy. This year we are excited to team up with Disney for the 10^th edition of Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival. Kids can learn about stress and emotions in a fun way through relatable characters and heartwarming stories such as those from Disney and Pixar. More importantly, the event will allow families to bond and spend meaningful time together.”

Singapore Tourism Board’s Director of Attractions, Entertainment and Tourism Concept Development Ashlynn Loo said, “We are thrilled to support Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival – the only place in Southeast Asia where families can enjoy an Inside Out 2-themed outdoor carnival with large-scale installations. We hope visitors will enjoy the fresh and captivating experiences by exploring the various zones inspired by Inside Out 2’s Emotions. As we continue to welcome more visitors back to Singapore, we look forward to bringing more compelling leisure experiences that will appeal to both local and international visitors, as part of our continued collaboration with Disney, solidifying our position as a vibrant leisure and entertainment destination.”

Gardens by the Bay's Children's Festival 2024 is supported by Singapore Tourism Board and Tote Board.

This year, Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival is held in conjunction with the month-long National Family Festival, led by the Families for Life Council and its partners across the people, public and private sectors to celebrate families and to encourage everyone to prioritise family time.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery inspired by Inside Out 2 characters

At this year’s Children’s Festival, families can look forward to an array of installations and activities inspired by both the core and new Emotions of Inside Out 2.

*Concept arts below are for illustrative purposes only.

Kaleidoscope of Memories

This centrepiece installation is inspired by the Long Term Memory storage facility that houses millions of Riley’s memories in the Inside Out story.

Children’s Festival has brought this scene to life with colourful, illuminated Memory Orbs at Supertree Grove. Visitors can create their own Memory Orb by scanning a QR code at the installation and completing three simple steps: select the character that best reflects one’s emotion, pose for a photo, and upload your very own Memory Orb to the Kaleidoscope of Memories, where it will be projected alongside others’ memorable moments on the animated wall of this installation.

Mood Swings

The Emotion Joy is the theme of this installation, featuring swings that will be sure to delight children and all who are young-at-heart.

Expression Doodles

Coping with complex emotions is explored at this installation. With designs themed after Sadness and Embarrassment, children may “paint” with a water brush and watch doodles on the installations appear before their eyes.

Emotion Mirrors

Can you keep your cool at this tricky installation? Inspired by the Emotions Fear and Anxiety, attempt to complete the mirror maze and gigantic buzz wire games in nerve-wrecking time challenges.

Fort Pillowtown

Inspired by Ennui, children can lie back and relax at the Fort Pillowtown installation, or let their imaginations run wild within the cosy pillow fortresses that they can build.

Memory Orb Mountain

The whirlwind of emotions experienced throughout the evocative journey culminates in harmony and balance at this play area of large inflatable balls symbolic of embracing and balancing all our emotions. Visit in the evenings to catch the balls aglow! 

Visitors can also look forward to a special edition of the nightly Garden Rhapsody light and sound show during the duration of Children’s Festival, titled The Medley of Emotions. In addition to the lights on the Supertrees, the Memory Orbs within the Kaleidoscope of Memories installation will also synchronise their illumination and change colours in harmony with the Inside Out soundtrack.

Garden Rhapsody plays at 7.45pm and 8.45pm every evening.

Complimentary Disney and Pixar themed activities, movie screenings and more

Free activity trail booklets are available, with suggested activities to keep kids entertained such as collecting stamps. Visitors who complete their booklets and collect all the stamps may redeem an Inside Out 2 sticker sheet that is exclusive to Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival.

Visitors with a complete set of stamps may also redeem a souvenir keychain with a Gardens by the Bay exclusive design, that can be customised with little charms inspired by Inside Out 2, while stocks last. Visit the redemption counter to find out more.

Members of the public are also invited to enjoy complimentary outdoor screenings of Disney and Pixar favourites such as Coco, Elemental, Finding Dory and Incredibles 2 on the first two weekends of 25 May and 26 May, and 1 June and 2 June.

Visitors looking for a different experience can buckle up and hop aboard the Train of Emotions for a scenic train ride through Supertree Grove. Separate charges apply for the train ride.

Fringe performances and carnival games

Fringe performances such as bubble blowing, juggling and magic shows will come on during evenings of the first three weekends for all to enjoy.

There are also carnival games for the active ones and, for those who like to get hands-on, craft workshops to create their own Memory Orbs, musical boxes, friendship bracelets and more. Separate charges apply for these activities.

Be among the first to bring home Inside Out 2-themed merchandise in Singapore

Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival will also be one of the first places in Singapore where shoppers can get their hands on Inside Out 2-themed merchandise at a special retail pop-up. Inspired by fan-favourite Disney and Pixar characters, discover a delightful range for all ages, spanning apparel, reversible bucket hats, tote bags, drinkware, cushions, stationery and more.  

Limited time promotions, best dressed contests and more

Between 25 May and 9 June, visitors may also win tickets to a movie screening of Inside Out 2. They will need to take a creative photo of their adventures at Gardens by the Bay’s Children's Festival and upload it to their Instagram account with the hashtags #GBBChildrensFest #gardensbythebay #InsideOut2SG. Each winner will receive four movie tickets and a discount voucher to shop online at Disney Store (DisneyStore.asia) for more Pixar collectibles.

As a bonus, visitors whose submitted photos feature Inside Out 2-themed outfits stand an additional chance to win Gardens by the Bay’s “best dressed” contest! Besides the hashtags above, tag @DisneyStoreSG to qualify for a chance to bring home a set of Disney Store Inside Out 2 plushies or playsets. Terms and conditions apply.

Visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/childrensfestival for more information.

Slippers may be innocuous footwear in most contexts, but in the world of plants, the slipper orchid is anything but simple. This unusual-looking flower with the pouch-like sepal that resembles a lady’s slipper (hence its common name), practises what scientists intriguingly call “pollination by deceit”.

An insect is drawn by the vibrant colours of the orchid to land on its surface, which is slippery enough that the unsuspecting insect falls into the pouch. As it scurries its way out, it carries pollen grains on its body. For its tumble, the insect gets nothing in return, not even food – unusual for flowering plants.

Slipper orchids are among the 50 fascinating orchid species and hybrids of Cambodia showcased at Orchids of Angkor Wat, Cloud Forest’s newest orchid display, and an inaugural collaboration with the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore. The display was launched today by Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Social and Family Development, Eric Chua, and Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to Singapore, His Excellency Sok Khoeun. Other unusual orchid species include the unpredictable Vandachostylis, an orchid bearing endless surprises for breeders as all its progeny can look quite different depending on which of its genus parent is more dominant, and Dendrobium Adastra whose profuse, drooping blooms resemble a stunning “waterfall of flowers” – a phenomenon almost impossible to achieve in Singapore’s weather.

The orchids showcased at Orchids of Angkor Wat include species that are native to Cambodia, or hybrids that can trace their parentage back to orchids from Cambodia.

Since the ancient Khmer Empire, orchids have captured the imagination of the country through time, as well as captivated the outside world. Orchids were also revered as symbols of nobility and hallmarks of religious beliefs and have been documented in carvings throughout the ancient city of Angkor. However, despite having such a rich diversity of orchids, it is thought that only slightly more than half of the 500 species in Cambodia have ever been documented.

In a display that focuses on the country’s natural history, culture and ethnobotany, the Khmer Empire and the ancient city of Angkor serve as the backdrop. Taking centrestage is a 3.5m tall recreation of Angkor Wat, the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and an icon of the Khmer Empire. The facade that visitors see in the display is meant to replicate the same view in Cambodia as they make their way towards the sprawling temple complex.

Flanking the temple are palm trees – Cambodia’s national tree – as well as a wide array of orchids in a myriad of colours. Visitors are also able to experience a glimpse of the gateway to Angkor Thom, with devas (gods) paving the walkway.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Angkor Wat is one of the most visited attractions in Asia, and we are honoured to partner with the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore to recreate this majestic landmark at Gardens by the Bay, while also introducing visitors to Cambodia’s rich orchid heritage.”

Also on display are five stone replicas of scenes that are present in significant architecture around Angkor, including the walls of Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple. These include scenes that depict the daily lives and the divinities of Cambodia during the Khmer Empire, to name some examples. The replicas are on loan to Gardens by the Bay from the Cambodia-based Artisans Angkor, a workshop that dedicates itself to preserving authentic craftsmanship from Cambodian artisans.

After more than a decade, Supertree Grove is ready for a new addition to its staple of free night-time programmes – the artistic installation Borealis (约定极光).

Conceptualised by Switzerland-based artist Dan Acher, Borealis is both a work of art and a technological performance, where the Northern Lights is recreated in the centre of Supertree Grove when beams of laser light travel through particle clouds.

Visitors to Gardens by the Bay got to experience Borealis for the first time today, when Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minster for Law Edwin Tong launched the first public screening.

From May 5, Borealis can be experienced every Saturday and Sunday at 9pm, and Monday at 8pm. The installation will last for 30 minutes each time. Borealis joins the night repertoire at Supertree Grove, which includes the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show, where the lights on the Supertrees dance to a changing musical soundtrack, that takes place daily at 7.45pm and 8.45pm.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Our Supertrees have become iconic to Singapore’s skyline, making Gardens by the Bay one of the most photographed destinations in the world, and the nightly Garden Rhapsody at the Supertree Grove has attracted millions of visitors from near and far. It has been more than 10 years since Gardens by the Bay opened, and it is now timely to add something new to the beloved icon that Supertree Grove has become, in line with our aim to always bring special experiences to our visitors. Not everyone can see the Northern Lights in their lifetime, so we hope Borealis will allow our visitors to experience a hint of this enchanting natural wonder.”

Central to the theme of Mr Acher’s work is designing experiences that disrupt routines and create connections among people regardless of their differences. Borealis aligns with Gardens by the Bay’s purpose as a place for everyone in the community to come together, by bringing a far away phenomenon that not everyone will get to see in their lifetime, closer to people in Singapore.

Variations in wind, humidity and temperature make Borealis an ever-changing experience, where each encounter is unique due to the changes in movements, colour and density of the light beams. Accompanying the installation is a custom atmospheric soundtrack by French composer Guillaume Desbois, which contributes to the installation’s dreamy and contemplative mood.

Since 2016, Borealis has travelled to more than 40 cities across Europe, Australia, Asia and the US, including Hong Kong, Sydney and London. Borealis at Gardens by the Bay is its first permanent installation and kicks off in the rare bumper year for Northern Lights sightings. This year is the peak of the solar cycle, where natural occurrences of the cosmic lights phenomenon are at an all-time high in more than two decades.

Borealis at Gardens by the Bay is made possible with the support of community partner, Tote Board.

The annual Tulipmania (梦幻郁金香), which sees the centre of Flower Dome burst into colour with tens of thousands of tulips in bloom, is the first floral display at Gardens by the Bay to reach its 10^th edition. Since its launch in 2013 – a year after Gardens by the Bay opened to public – Tulipmania has become one of the Gardens’ top three floral displays with the highest visitorship, alongside the cherry blossom showcase Sakura and the Christmas show Poinsettia Wishes.

This year’s Tulipmania was launched today by Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and National Development Sim Ann, along with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Singapore Her Excellency Anneke Adema. Tulipmania, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Singapore, will run until May 26.

While Gardens by the Bay constantly refreshes its offerings, such as introducing new thematic flowers to its floral displays every year, Tulipmania has proven so popular that it has become a staple show. This year’s floral display pays tribute to the inaugural show in the design of the centre field. Just like in 2013, tulips are uniformly planted in rows of singular colour, evoking the charm of traditional Dutch tulip fields.

Over the years, Tulipmania has evolved, showcasing diverse themes, from tulip recreations of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings to the landscapes of Kazakhstan and Türkiye, where wild tulips originated. This year’s show goes back to its Dutch roots. After all, the Dutch first coined the term “Tulipmania” and popularised tulips, the most sought-after cut flower bulb across Europe in the 17^th century.

This year’s floral display also features the modern side of the Netherlands for the first time, with examples of technological advancements such as wind turbines and vertical farming, in addition to the traditional tulip fields.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Tulipmania has a special place in Gardens by the Bay’s history as our first ‘blockbuster’ display going way back to when we first opened. Celebrating its 10^th edition today, the idea of a field of blooming tulips in tropical Singapore was unimaginable to most, which explains the crazy queues of fascinated visitors to catch the sight on its opening day in 2013. This early success not only endeared Gardens by the Bay to Singaporeans, but also made the world sit up and take notice of what Flower Dome is capable of. This paved the way for seven to eight changing floral displays in Flower Dome every year, including signature shows featuring dahlias, cherry blossoms, roses and orchids.”

Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Singapore Her Excellency Anneke Adema said, “The Netherlands is about tulips, certainly! However, my country is also about working on our future, finding solutions to serious global challenges. We are grateful for excellent cooperation with Singapore on this."

New tulip varieties at Tulipmania

Taking centrestage is what brings people back year after year – the tulips. Some 54,000 tulips of more than 20 varieties are set to charm visitors all over again. Every show introduces new varieties, and this year, there are four to look out for:

• Tulipa Purple Circus – This fringed tulip has white flowers with eye-catching pinkish-purple accents. Its unique frayed edges on the petals provide an extra dimension of texture and interest to the blooms.
• Tulipa Double Negrita – The petals of are a deep, rich shade of velvety purple, creating a dramatic contrast against the green foliage. It is a double-petaled tulip, which means it has more than the usual number of petals and sepals in multiple layers, giving each flower a fuller appearance akin to peonies or roses.
• Tulipa Negrita Crown – A crown tulip with flowers in an intense dark violet colour. The petals of crown tulips roll up at the edge, into an almost-tubular shape, giving it a crown-like appearance.
• Tulipa Crown of Dynasty – A crown tulip with flowers that are pink with a cream base. The colours become more saturated as the flower matures.

The vibrant rows of tulips are complemented by double-petaled daffodils – the Double Daffodil Heamoor and Daffodil Peach Swirl – sourced from the Netherlands. These daffodils are not as common as their single-petaled counterparts and have gained popularity for their lusher and showier appearance.

Modern Dutch innovations juxtaposed against traditional elements

The landscape of Tulipmania is peppered with elements of the idyllic countryside of old Holland, such as a traditional windmill, watermill and thatched-roof farmhouses.

Juxtaposed against these quintessential Dutch icons are models of wind turbines up to 5.5m tall that highlight the Netherlands’ evolution towards a focus on sustainability and renewable energy. In fact, urban farming technology by Dutch firm Priva is already being used by vertical farms in Singapore. Examples of this set-up by local farms Green Harvest and Greenhood can be found in Mediterranean garden of Flower Dome, featuring crops such as microgreens, and Asian leafy vegetables like Choy Sum and Bok Choy.

On display in Tulipmania is also the full set of 104 Delft Blue miniature houses from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the official airline partner for Tulipmania. As a way of sharing Dutch culture with the world, these miniature houses have been presented to Business Class passengers on intercontinental flights since the 1950s. Each little house is modelled after a real Dutch building of historical and architectural interest.

For this year’s Tulipmania, visitors have two opportunities to win economy-class round trip air tickets sponsored by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Visitors can scan a QR code at the floral display to play an online game, where they are required to match the Delft Blue Houses with the correct house numbers. Correct entries will enter a lucky draw with a chance to win a pair of air tickets to Amsterdam. Visitors can also take part in a Mother’s Day social media contest, to stand a chance to gift their mother a trip to a destination of choice in Europe. Please refer to the Annex for more details on the contests.

In celebration of Tulipmania’s milestone 10^th edition, Gardens by the Bay will be giving away complimentary cut tulips in Flower Dome over the weekend of May 4 and May 5 from 9am, on a first come first served basis, while stocks last.

Refer to the Annex for more information on:

• Tulip varieties of note
• Tulip-themed craft workshops
• Contests by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

The second Starbucks store has opened at Gardens by the Bay, at community space Active Garden. Located along the waterfront promenade facing Marina Bay, the store is a 10-minute stroll from Bayfront MRT station.

The new pet-friendly Starbucks store, which has a 130 square metres indoor area and 100 square metres alfresco area, is surrounded by greenery. The store showcases floral artistry based on an “Enchanted Forest” theme conceptualised and put together by Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists. Through a mix of “live” tropical plants and preserved flowers, the store is infused with both greenery and colour. For example, a 8.3 square metres feature wall showcases a river of preserved blooms in rainbow colours, that flows through a forest composed of moss.

In line with Gardens by the Bay as a garden built on the principles of sustainability, the new Starbucks store is on track to achieve Greener Store certification. Each Starbucks Greener Store has a unique combination of sustainable features that ranges from features like energy and water efficient equipment and appliances, low-emitting paints and sealants, Grounds for Your Garden program, as well as energy efficient HVAC temperature systems and more.

The store at Active Garden will set aside used coffee grounds for Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists to do composting, which can then be used to enrich soil for growing plants.

Gardens by the Bay Senior Director of Retail and Leasing Prisca Teh said, “Active Garden was designed as a dedicated community space for local residents to gather and bond amidst nature. With its focus on bringing the community together, Starbucks shares similar objectives as Gardens by the Bay. Not only does the new Starbucks store at Active Garden complement such shared objectives beautifully, it is also sustainability-focused, just like Gardens by the Bay.”

Starbucks Singapore General Manager Patrick Kwok said, “Since the beginning, Starbucks has been rooted in a mission to nurture human connection. We’re thrilled to open this new store, committed to being a community space for our customers within the lush gardens. With sustainability-focused operations in mind, Starbucks Active Garden is another step taken towards our overall goal to being resource positive.”

Active Garden, which opened in 2022, is a 10,000 square metres purpose-built green space for people across generations to connect with one another through physical, social and learning activities. There is no admission charge for the public to enjoy its facilities, such as the multi-generational fitness equipment, outdoor musical instruments and two lawns. There are also talks, workshops and events held throughout the year to engage the community. A barrier-free space, Active Garden has been awarded the Green Mark Platinum Award.

The first Starbucks store at Gardens by the Bay, which opened in 2021, is located at Golden Garden near the Main Entrance.

Mystical, magical, mist-shrouded – such words previously used to describe Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest by visitors took on a new meaning today, when horticulturists unveiled their interpretation of the earthly paradise of Shangri-La inside the cooled conservatory.

Azaleas of Shangri-La (香格里拉杜鹃天堂) is Cloud Forest’s new floral display that features more than 15 varieties of brightly coloured azaleas in pink, red, yellow, orange, and cream hues, ranging from shrubs as small as 30cm to as tall as 4m. The show transports visitors into an enchanting landscape inspired by the countries and regions of the Himalayas, which is often touted as the real inspiration for Shangri-La – a fictional utopia first written about by English author James Hilton in his 1933 novel Lost Horizon.

Madam Halimah Yacob, the Chancellor of the Singapore University of Social Sciences officially openedcAzaleas of Shangri-La today, which will run until May 5.

Gardens by the Bay Assistant CEO May Yeo said, “Azaleas of Shangri-La posed a different kind of challenge for horticulturists – how do you bring to life a concept that is essentially fictitious? Inspired by this exciting opportunity, our horticulturists put themselves to the test to bring forth another new and fresh offering for our visitors. We hope to have succeeded in crafting a beautiful existence away from the world at large; one that exudes an atmosphere of wellness and serenity, within the tranquillity of the Cloud Forest.”

One of the highlights is an interpretation of one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery. The temple’s white-washed walls and slanted pagoda-style roofs finished in gold have been recreated for the floral display.

The monastery is set amidst a lively Tibetan village. Classic Tibetan infrastructure is adorned with brightly-coloured decorative elements such as paintings, intricate wood carvings and symbols of sacredness, tranquillity and kindness. Vibrant Tibetan lanterns made from colourful paper or silk in rich hues of red, yellow, blue and white, create a festive and joyous atmosphere during celebrations. When lit, they symbolise wisdom and enlightenment, and the dispelling of ignorance. A wooden gazebo is charmingly adorned with azaleas.

An array of traditional herbs, including those native to the Himalayan region such as lingzhi, cordyceps and saffron can also be seen. These herbs bring with them various health benefits – antibacterial and antifungal properties, the ability to boost immunity, treat a variety of disorders, as well as promote overall health and well-being.

Upcoming new offerings in Cloud Forest

Beyond Azaleas of Shangri-La, Gardens by the Bay will be introducing an upcoming series of new offerings in Cloud Forest this year, in line with its objective to provide visitors with fresh experiences.

The Hidden Forest, an immersive, interactive digital art experience that makes flora and fauna of cloud forests come alive, is set to open in mid-2024 – the first major enhancement at Cloud Forest since July 2021. The experience was conceptualised and designed in collaboration with Japan’s NAKED, INC., a creative art and design company known for its interactive art experiences through cutting-edge technologies.

There will also be two new orchid displays putting the spotlight on the Southeast Asian region for the first time. Orchids of Angkor Wat will open in May, followed by a Philippines-themed display in the second half of the year which showcases the archipelago’s rich diversity of orchid species.

The ninth edition of Gardens by the Bay’s iconic Sakura floral display marks the first time that visitors can enjoy a day-to-night experience since the debut show in 2016. Inspired by the city of Kyoto, the iconic Kinkakuji Temple takes centrestage, in which visitors can step into and imagine they are within the actual temple – a UNESCO World Heritage site. At night, the floral display is transformed into a landscape inspired by “yozakura” (night sakura) in Japan. At the Gardens, the trees are specially lit and there are light projections that only appear when the sky darkens.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for National Development and Finance Ms Indranee Rajah opened the Sakura floral display this evening with the traditional breaking of a sake barrel. Joining her were Ambassador of Japan to Singapore His Excellency Hiroshi Ishikawa, Gardens by the Bay Chairman Mr Niam Chiang Meng and Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh said, “The affection that Singaporeans have for Japanese culture has made our Sakura floral display, now in its ninth year, a beloved event. This year’s edition is especially exciting as we introduce ‘yozakura’, or night sakura, for the first time, offering visitors the chance to also experience cherry blossoms in a different way after dark. Together with the Japanese cultural fringe programmes and the much-anticipated return of Anime Garden, this year’s Sakura season at Gardens by the Bay promises to be an exciting and unforgettable one.”

More than 140 cherry blossom trees amidst quintessential Japanese elements

This year’s floral display features more than 140 cherry blossom trees of over 40 varieties, including crowd favourites such as Prunus Accolade, known for its abundant clusters of pink blooms, Prunus Kiku Shidare with its distinctive weeping form, and Prunus Pendula Rubra which has an umbrella form and bears deep pink to red flowers. Visitors can also expect to see a new European plum blossom species, Prunus domestica, which stands out with its white to pale pink flowers.

The essence of Kyoto is also conveyed through a traditional thatched house like those from Miyama Village, which is known for its peaceful, old-world charm. Elements of Japanese gardens feature in the floral display, such as an engawa, a contemplative veranda found in traditional homes, and the soothing sounds of a sozu, a bamboo water fountain commonly seen in Japanese gardens.

There is the chozuya, a large basin with wooden dippers used to purify oneself before entering sacred shrines and temples as well as ema, small wooden plaques hung at shrines or temples for people to write their prayers or wishes on.

Nestled in the landscape are Ikebana arrangements by local societies, Ikenobo Ikebana Singapore, Singapore Sogetsu Association, and Ikebana International Singapore Chapter 135.

At dusk, the Flower Dome transitions into “yozakura”, with soft lights casting a glow on the blossom trees, creating scenes inspired by the night landscapes in many Japanese cities during sakura season. Paper cranes that adorn the entrance of Flower Dome come to life with LED lights, while projections transform the ground into a koi-filled stream or a street where fallen sakura petals are teased by a gentle breeze.

Visitors to the Sakura floral display stand a chance to win a pair of economy class tickets to anywhere in Japan, sponsored by official airline partner All Nippon Airways. Refer to the Annex for details on how to participate.

Japanese cultural activities and the return of Anime Garden

Complementing the Sakura floral display are Japanese cultural programmes on selected weekends beginning tomorrow. Organised in partnership with the Embassy of Japan in Singapore’s Japan Creative Centre, the public can see traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, music and dance performances, demonstrations of the mochi-pounding tradition, a screening of Japanese animated film Josee, the Tiger and the Fish, and more.

Making a return to the Supertree Grove after a four-year hiatus is Anime Garden. On March 30 and March 31, anime enthusiasts are in for a treat, with a packed weekend schedule that includes appearances by regional cosplay artists such as Baobao, Thames Malerose, Mikki, and Xiaoyukiko, who will also be judges for the popular Cosplay Singles Competition.

Anime Garden will also feature an exciting concert line-up of Japanese artists, including legendary anisong singer Hiroshi Kitadani, known for singing multiple opening themes of the popular anime series One Piece, including the popular We Are!

The marketplace will feature a cosplay hub with booths offering merchandise from cosplayers and unique works by artists and creators from various parts of the region. Additionally, for those who love Japanese cuisine, a broad selection of food and drinks will be available throughout the event.

The Sakura floral display 2024 is supported by official airline partner All Nippon Airways and Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Singapore Foundation.

Refer to the Annex for details of the Japanese cultural programmes and Anime Garden.

From this year, Gardens by the Bay will focus on strengthening its role as a People’s Garden by rolling out new initiatives catering to disabled and special needs individuals. This is part of its commitment to be an inclusive garden, incorporating the feedback from various social service agencies on how it can better support the recreational needs of underreached segments of beneficiaries under its Gift of Gardens community outreach initiative.

The initiatives are designed to make the Gardens’ experience more accessible to those who face physical challenges or are cognitively different, such as people with dementia or autism. The efforts will be divided into two categories – “hardware” (such as changes in infrastructure, landscape and operations) and “heartware” (such as fostering an inclusive mindset among staff and volunteers).

The details were announced at the Community Reunion Dinner (团园) held today. This is the first reunion dinner of its kind at Gardens by the Bay where more than 400 beneficiaries from varied backgrounds – children and youth, senior citizens, disadvantaged families, special needs individuals, ex-offenders and migrant workers – came together for a diverse Chinese New Year feast and lo hei.

Organised under Gift of Gardens, the reunion dinner was graced by Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore and Ms Jane Ittogi. This is the first Gift of Gardens event that President attended as its new Patron.

Gift of Gardens was started in 2012, the same year Gardens by the Bay opened to public, as part of its objective to be a People’s Garden that reaches out to all in the community. Under Gift of Gardens, Singapore residents who may not have the resources to visit or are individuals with disabilities, receive free access to the cooled conservatories. Their visits may also be complemented by guided tours, engagement activities or community events. To date, Gift of Gardens has reached out to more than 200,000 beneficiaries.

Gardens by the Bay Assistant CEO May Yeo said, “As a People’s Garden, Gardens by the Bay constantly seeks to widen our offerings and deepen the engagements especially for the underserved. Over the years, our strengthened interactions with beneficiaries and social service agencies have helped us better appreciate where and how we can do more, so that more people can experience the Gardens in greater ways. Gardens by the Bay is committed to being an inclusive garden for all. Among some of the new initiatives under Gift of Gardens, we will extend our reach to individuals who may face challenges visiting us, such as those with physical disabilities or are cognitively different, and even providing employment opportunities for those who need a place to start.”

More facilities to foster inclusivity

• A quiet hour in Flower Dome for visitors on the autism spectrum
  To accommodate the needs of visitors on the autism spectrum, Flower Dome will open an hour earlier on the last Saturday of every alternate month with operations tweaked, for example with music and announcements muted. The experience will conclude with a nature-themed workshop in a quiet space. A trial in partnership with St Andrew’s Mission School was recently completed, and there are plans to start this in the second quarter of 2024.
   

• Priority space for users of personal mobility aids during Garden Rhapsody
  Garden Rhapsody, a music and light show at Supertree Grove, takes place every night at 7.45pm and 8.45pm. The free show is popular with visitors and often sees the Supertree Grove fill up with crowds. A dedicated space is set aside at Supertree Grove for individuals in personal mobility aids like wheelchairs to enjoy the show.
   

• Sensory trails for the visually impaired
  Gardens by the Bay is in consultation with the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped to develop sensory trails in Flower Dome and the outdoor gardens that enable the visually impaired to enjoy nature through their other senses. Conducted by trained Gardens by the Bay volunteers, these trails help participants to experience the Gardens through plants with interesting textures, shapes, sizes and scents. Participants can also learn how such traits are often adaptations that help plants survive in their specific environment. The sensory trails are targeted to begin in October this year.
   

• Barrier-free access maps for the physically challenged 
  Last year, Gardens by the Bay worked with Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and SG Enable to map out universal access routes to enable wheelchair users to plan routes that enable them to move about easily within its premises. This collaboration is part of SLA’s support for the Enabling Masterplan 2030, which sets out a vision for Singapore to be an inclusive society by 2030. In this pilot initiative, data relating to routes that are barrier-free such as those with wheelchair-accessible covered linkways, ramps, footpaths, pedestrian crossings and overhead bridges with lifts were collected and mapped. Eventually, a barrier-free access routing function will be added to OneMap as an additional mode of wayfinding, to supplement the existing public transport, cycling and driving modes.
   

• Inclusive children’s playground
  In a collaboration with the Ministry of Social and Family Development, 1,500 sqm of space at the Active Garden community space will be developed into an inclusive children’s playground with play facilities for children including those with disabilities. The new playground is targeted for completion this year.
   

• A better Gardens experience for seniors, persons living with dementia, and their caregivers
  As part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) that was signed, Gardens by the Bay will be leveraging AIC’s expertise to curate enhanced experiences for seniors, especially frailer seniors, persons living with dementia, and their caregivers.
  
  These efforts include jointly exploring and implementing strategies to make Gardens by the Bay more accessible and enjoyable such as:
  - Promoting initiatives to support and reach out to caregivers of seniors and persons living with dementia, including wellness activities tailored to the needs of caregivers
  - Raising awareness about a new community engagement programme within the Gardens for frailer seniors from the Community Care sector, so that they can enjoy curated activity sessions (e.g. making terrariums) and visits to Flower Dome
  - Piloting a new tailored horticultural therapy programme at nursing homes for residents to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

An inclusive mindset for staff and volunteers

Beyond new facilities to strengthen inclusivity, Gardens by the Bay is also working on fostering an inclusive mindset within the organisation.

For example, under the MOU with AIC, Gardens by the Bay will continue with joint efforts in building the capability of its volunteers and frontline staff through training in dementia awareness, activity facilitation and communication skills to better engage with persons living with dementia and frailer seniors.

Gardens by the Bay is also an inclusive employer. In an inaugural collaboration with Autism Resource Centre, the Gardens hired its first batch of special needs individuals as horticultural assistants this month, after a period of training. As part of the horticultural team, they will be working with horticulturists and volunteers in the care and maintenance of Active Garden.

A Community Batik mural symbolising a Gardens for all

A highlight of the Community Reunion Dinner was President Tharman and Mrs Tharman, together with beneficiaries from Fei Yue Community Services, Singapore Association for the Visually Handicapped, The Helping Hand and The Salvation Army, putting the finishing touches on the last piece of a five-piece Community Batik.

Special needs artist Nicole Koo from non-profit ART:DIS was commissioned to design the 1.5 m-tall and 4.2 m-wide mural. The Community Batik was split up so that more than 80 individuals from the four social service agencies could work separately to add colour to Nicole’s design, and today was the first time everyone got to see all five pieces put together.

Nicole was also present this evening to assist in completing the last piece of the mural. The completed mural will be displayed at Active Garden for all visitors to enjoy.

Come July 12, visitors to Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome will get to experience a first-of-its-kind exhibition that seamlessly combines multi-sensory immersion and the beauty of nature with Impressions of Monet (印象莫奈).

Centred on the art, life and gardens of the master of Impressionism, the French painter Claude Monet (1840 – 1926), visitors to Flower Dome can experience two distinct but complementary aspects of the exhibition in one location:

• Impressions of Monet: The Garden（印象莫奈：花园）– a floral display that recreates the landscapes of the renowned gardens of Monet’s home in Giverny, France, that were the subject of many of his paintings
• Impressions of Monet: The Experience（印象莫奈：体验）– a multi-sensory immersive experience that celebrates the works and life of Monet and his contemporaries

Impressions of Monet is jointly presented by Gardens by the Bay and NEON.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “Nature is therapeutic, beautiful and a constant theme in the life and works of Claude Monet. Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists were inspired by Monet’s passion for gardening, which is reflected in some of his most iconic paintings, to recreate scenes from his spectacular garden through a tapestry of horticulture and floral artistry. By partnering with NEON, we hope to marry art, nature, and technology to present to our visitors an experience like no other before.”

Executive Chairman & Group CEO of NEON, Ron Tan said, “Lauded as one of the most influential Impressionist painters of the late 19th century, Claude Monet’s dedication to exploring the nuances of light and colour has left an indelible mark in the world of art. NEON is thrilled to embark on this journey of artistic exploration with Gardens by the Bay, to bring to life his remarkable talent in capturing the immediate and transient effects of light and colour, in an immersive showcase that promises to enchant visitors young and old.”

Impressions of Monet: The Garden

Flower Dome’s centre field is transformed several times a year according to the different theme of each changing floral display. For Impressions of Monet: The Garden, the centre field presents landscapes that reflect scenes of Monet’s garden in his home in Giverny, France, which he lived in for 43 years, and where his artistic flair and deep love for gardening came together. 

Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, which still stand today, is the second most visited tourist attraction in the region of Normandy, France. Not only is Monet’s house recreated, but Gardens by the Bay’s horticulturists also recreate scenes from the house’s adjoining garden, which was called Clos Normand, and the land at the bottom of Clos Normand which Monet acquired later and was called the Water Garden. The landscapes of Clos Normand and the Water Garden served as inspirations for Monet’s paintings in his later years.

Through the colour, form, and vibrancy of a carefully curated plant palette, horticulturists bring to life scenes from Clos Normand and the Water Garden. Plants similar to those in Monet’s original gardens, such as hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums and geraniums are featured.

In homage to Monet’s Water Garden, the unusual green Japanese bridge that he was so proud of and is associated with him is recreated, and water lilies are featured in Gardens by the Bay’s floral display for the first time – after all, these are the eponymous subject of one of his most renowned works, the Water Lilies series.

Impressions of Monet: The Experience

Impressions of Monet: The Experience, a multi-sensory experience celebrating the works and life of Claude Monet and his fellow Impressionists, begins as visitors cross over from Flower Dome’s centre field to enter the front façade of the house of Monet. 

Visitors embark on an immersive adventure into French Impressionism, indulge their senses with the sights and sounds of 19th century Europe as seen through the eyes of Monet and the Impressionist painters.

Set to a powerful classical score and showcasing the full breadth of the Impressionist movement, a stunning display of famous, inspirational images surround the visitor as they get lost in the vibrant colours and intricate details of the Impressionists' works.

Breathtaking paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas and many more. In a rich, dynamic display of light, colour, sound and fragrance, the masterpieces of the Impressionists come to life.

Visitors also have the chance to examine the Impressionists' sources of inspiration via photographs and video displayed alongside their works. 

The intention is for visitors to forge their own paths and find their own meaning as they wander through the galleries, exploring hidden nooks, viewing artworks from new angles and discovering unique perspectives. But for many, the greatest pleasure lies in simply standing still, indulging the senses as waves of sights and sounds, intense and beautiful, wash over them.

Impressions of Monet: The Experience is a multi-sensory experience created and produced by Grande Experiences and uses SENSORY4™ immersive technology to bring art to life through an incredible application of light that even the artists themselves could not have envisaged.  

In commemoration of the Year of the Wood Dragon, a dragon that reaches the height of two-storeys at 7m tall and stretching 15m across, rises in the centre of Flower Dome amidst more than 1,000 dahlias of 40 varieties. This dragon is the centrepiece of Gardens by the Bay’s Dahlia Dreams floral display, which opens on Friday, January 19.

For the first time, the annual Chinese New Year floral display involved over 30 beneficiaries fromDementia Singapore, made up of persons living with dementia and their caregivers, who came together over the course of a week to create 30 floral arrangements made of preserved hydrangeas, lunarias, and statice in the auspicious colours of red and yellow. These floral arrangements were then incorporated into the body of the dragon centrepiece, forming its “scales”.

Such flower arrangement sessions have therapeutic benefits for individuals with dementia, such as cognitive and sensory stimulation, enhancement of motor skills, and bolstering of self-esteem as well as a sense of purpose. It is also an occasion to make precious memories, which is particularly poignant for those with dementia and their loved ones.

Spanning a variety of Dementia Singapore’s unique services, these participants are clients of namely the Family of Wisdom enrichment programme, the Voices For Hope empowerment programme and the social service agency’s CARA membership programme.

Gardens by the Bay Assistant CEO May Yeo said, “The participation of Dementia Singapore beneficiaries and their caregivers not only added a unique charm to the dragon centrepiece, but we hope we have also provided a beneficial activity to engage them. Chinese New Year is traditionally about family, and it is particularly meaningful how the effort put in by individuals with dementia and family members who are often their caregivers, will in turn contribute to a wonderful experience for visitors and their families to Gardens by the Bay this festive period.”

Dementia Singapore CEO Jason Foo said, “This initiative helps affirm the fact that we all have a role to play in building a more inclusive society. Not only is this a great way to leverage the cognitive benefits of the visual arts for people living with dementia, particularly the natural splendour of floral design, but allowing them to contribute directly to such an important centrepiece is surely as intrinsically rewarding. Ultimately, it should remind those living with the condition that despite dementia, there are many ways to continue living fruitfully. And we hope that fellow members of the public, whom we encourage to be more mindful of dementia and its impact, would subsequently be reminded of their active contribution to the cause.”

Dinnerplate dahlias and other lucky blooms

Gardens by the Bay’s signature dinnerplate dahlias, so-called because some measure up to 25cm in diameter, make a return in the Dahlia Dreams floral display. There will also be dahlias of varied shapes and forms. Varieties of note include:

• Dahlia ‘Gloriosa’ – Lively red petals splashed on a creamy yellow base, resembling the strokes of an artist's brush.
• Dahlia ‘ Duet’ – A striking two-toned decorative dahlia with bold purple petals and crisp white tips.
• Dahlia ‘ Spartacus’ – A bold, monochromatic decorative dahlia characterised by its dramatic deep wine-red petals.
• Dahlia ‘ Bodacious’ – Petals that boast a gradient of sunset orange at the base, lightening to a sunny yellow toward the tips.
• Dahlia ‘ Kenora Lisa’ – A delicate, multi-hued decorative dahlia, featuring creamy peach petals from their base, transitioning to blushing soft pink at the tips.

Complementing the dahlias are other Chinese New Year blooms such as celosias, asters, chrysanthemums, cymbidiums, guzmanias, oncidiums, marigolds, pussy willows, hydrangeas, lilies, and camellias.

Eight auspicious dragons in Flower Dome

This year, visitors can look forward to seeing eight dragons in Flower Dome. Flanking the dragon centrepiece are four colourful dragon lantern sets, each symbolising the elements of metal, water, fire and earth, which are deeply rooted in Chinese culture. There is also a pair of dragons captured in mid-dance, embodying the traditional dragon dance performed during Chinese New Year and is believed to bring good luck to people.

Rounding off the dragons is The Bearer of Infinite Blessings, a 6m-tall dragon sculpture specially created by British sculptor James Doran-Webb for the Dahlia Dreams floral display, which welcomes visitors when they enter Flower Dome.

Breathing out smoke and set amidst a water feature, the sculpture is constructed from approximately 2,000 pieces of wood repurposed from dead trees as well as recycled stainless steel and took 9,000 hours to put together. The Bearer of Infinite Blessings symbolises prosperity and renewal this Chinese New Year. After Dahlia Dreams, the sculpture will travel to the United Kingdom to be showcased at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show by The Royal Horticultural Society in May.

To usher in positivity for all visitors, the floral display also features a scene that interprets the Chinese saying 鱼跃龙门, which translates into “carps leap over the dragon gate”, a metaphor for courage and the pursuit of greatness amidst challenges.

To add to the Chinese New Year festivities at Gardens by the Bay, visitors can look forward to River Hongbao 2024 in the outdoors, which will be returning from February 8 to February 17 for its fourth edition at the Gardens. Highlights include a 140m-long dragon lantern stretched across two Supertrees and suspended 5m above ground at the Supertree Grove, and an 18m-tall God of Fortune. 

From April this year, Gardens by the Bay volunteers who have undergone training in geragogy to better engage with senior visitors, will get to apply their newfound skills in workshops they will be running under the Intergenerational Learning Programme with Council for Third Age (C3A). This is a cross-generational collaboration where the volunteers will conduct courses for seniors, such as terrarium making, together with youth volunteers.

This is just one initiative that is part of Gardens by the Bay’s efforts to add to the breadth of experiences available to its volunteers – not all of whom work with plants. In fact, its volunteers are active in various areas beyond horticulture, for example in interfacing with visitors in customer service roles, an opportunity for volunteers that started two years ago. This is part of Gardens by the Bay’s aim to cultivate a broader definition of community stewardship of a national garden, so that it involves a diverse cross-section of the community to help run one of the foremost gardens in the world.

The new initiatives were announced by Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration Desmond Lee at Gardens by the Bay’s Volunteers Appreciation Night held today.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh said, “As a national garden, we hope individuals from all segments of our communities will be attracted to volunteer with us. We hope to grow our volunteer base beyond traditional plant lovers to include other passionate members of our community, to serve in different domain areas like education, outreach, and even customer service. Our volunteers not only bring along their wealth of experience and skills with them, but also fresh ideas and enthusiasm to co-create an international icon which we can be proud of.”

Gardens by the Bay currently has over 1,000 volunteers, of which about 500 are regulars who volunteer at least once every quarter. Over the next three years, the Gardens aims to double the number of regular volunteers to 1,000.

New initiatives for volunteers in 2024

The new initiatives that Gardens by the Bay will be rolling out this year to engage volunteers come under a partnership with C3A and cover three broad areas.

• Gardens by the Bay aims to increase the number of senior volunteers through C3A’s network, with the goal of recruiting 120 senior Service Ambassadors over the next two years.
• Over the next three years with support from the Silver Volunteer Fund, more than 500 volunteers and Gardens’ staff will undergo training programmes including geragogy workshops, intended to help trainees learn techniques to adapt to seniors’ specific learning characteristics, and also how better to engage them using technology and online tools.
• To foster active aging, Gardens by the Bay and C3A will organise regular programmes at the Active Garden community space. This will give volunteers more opportunities to use their newfound skills, picked up from the training, to engage with seniors.

From seniors, plans are also underway to bring on board more young people as volunteers too, to further diversify the volunteer pool at Gardens by the Bay.

Different backgrounds, different skillsets

Volunteers Appreciation Night was a celebration of the contributions of the many volunteers at Gardens by the Bay, who have been involved in various aspects of the Gardens through the years, in areas such as horticulture, education, community outreach and customer service. When volunteers come from a cross-section of backgrounds, they bring with them different experiences that add value to how they can contribute.

Take Hossine Md Mukul for example. Mukul is a migrant worker from Bangladesh who has been in Singapore for the last 14 years and works as a commercial painter. Last year, he started to volunteer to lead tours for migrant workers to Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, making the experience special for them since he can explain the finer points in Bengali. It all began in 2021, when Mukul attended a tour of the cooled conservatories as part of Gardens by the Bay’s efforts to integrate the migrant worker community in collaboration with The Salvation Army. He found the experience so meaningful that he wanted to pay it forward.

Poon Siew Luan, a child psychologist before she retired, has volunteered at Gardens by the Bay since 2016. She often tells other volunteers to introduce colours when facilitating activities that require them to engage with young children, as this is important for improving memory and supporting emotional regulation. Such knowledge stems from her 25 years of experience working with special needs children and those with learning difficulties, and is one way she translates a lifetime of professional skills into her current volunteer work.