With Ramadan well underway and Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaching at the end of March, Singapore is in full festive swing. The streets of Geylang Serai are glowing, bazaar stalls are packed, and the scent of freshly grilled satay and warm kueh drifts through the evening air. Whether you're celebrating or simply soaking in the atmosphere, here's your guide to making the most of the season.
The Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar — Bigger Than Ever
The anchor event of the season, the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, has returned for 2026 with over four hundred stalls stretching along Sims Avenue and into the surrounding side streets. This year's edition features a dedicated "Heritage Row" showcasing traditional Malay crafts, batik workshops, and live dikir barat performances every Friday and Saturday evening. Food-wise, the perennial favourites are all here — ramly burgers sizzling on flat-top grills, vadai stacked in golden pyramids, and murtabak folded to order — but look out for newer vendors offering Turkish ice cream, Korean corn dogs with a sambal twist, and charcoal-grilled otah tacos.
Kampong Glam's Intimate Night Market
For a more laid-back alternative, the Kampong Glam precinct around Arab Street and Haji Lane hosts a smaller but wonderfully curated night market on weekends throughout Ramadan. Expect artisanal perfume oils, handmade leather goods, and specialty coffee pop-ups alongside food stalls. The setting — with Sultan Mosque illuminated in the background — makes for some of the most atmospheric evening strolls in the city.
Festive Feasts and Dining Deals
Several of Singapore's top Malay and Indonesian restaurants roll out special Hari Raya menus in the weeks surrounding the holiday. Hjh Maimunah, the beloved Jalan Pisang institution, is offering a festive family platter that includes rendang, ayam masak merah, sayur lodeh, and a generous portion of ketupat for groups of six. Over at The Coconut Club on Ann Siang Hill, their Hari Raya set features a luxurious nasi lemak with wagyu rendang and a dessert of kueh salat made with high-grade Sarawak pandan.
Hotels are also getting in on the action. The Fullerton Hotel's buffet features a live satay station, a whole roasted lamb, and a dessert spread that includes every traditional kueh you can name. Meanwhile, Andaz Singapore at Duo is running a contemporary take with dishes like deconstructed lontong and sous-vide beef rendang.
Cultural Highlights Not to Miss
Beyond the food, Hari Raya is a celebration of community and culture. The Malay Heritage Centre in Kampong Glam is hosting free guided tours throughout the festive period, with special exhibitions on the history of Hari Raya traditions in Singapore. There are also open-house events across the island where residents of all backgrounds are welcome to visit, share a meal, and learn about the significance of the holiday.
Practical Tips for Bazaar-Goers
The Geylang Serai bazaar gets extremely crowded on weekend evenings, especially after nine p.m. If you prefer a calmer experience, visit on weekday nights between seven and nine. Wear comfortable shoes — you'll be doing a lot of walking. Bring cash for smaller stalls, though most larger vendors now accept PayNow and GrabPay. And pace yourself with the food; it's tempting to buy everything at once, but you'll enjoy it more if you graze over a couple of hours.
Selamat Hari Raya to everyone celebrating. May this season bring joy, togetherness, and plenty of great food.
