Closer Lives Travel and Lifestyle Blog: Your Guide to Adventure and Cultural Discovery

2 EPIC FREE Light Shows You Can See EVERY NIGHT in Singapore

12 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Like us, you may have heard that Singapore can be expensive. Indeed it can be for accommodation, but when it comes to activities, this city-state has it covered! We were shocked to be able to see not one but TWO absolutely FREE light shows in Singapore, that you can see within an hour of each other, for the perfect romantic night out!

Colorful light show in Singapore's skyline with illuminated trees and vibrant text: "Garden Rhapsody & Spectra Light Show."

The evening starts off at the incredible Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, getting there nice and early to secure a spot lying down beneath the giant trees. The Garden Rhapsody Light Show starts at 7.45pm, lasts around 15 minutes, giving you an hour to get a good spot on the bay for the incredible 9pm Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay Sands.

In between both shows you get to cross a highway on an incredible bridge, walk through the famous MBS Resort, including its impressive The Shoppes Mall, complete with its own Changi Airport style 'mini Jewel' water fountain.

Night skyline view of a city with illuminated skyscrapers and a glowing glass dome by the waterfront. Logos of various companies are visible.

In this post, we will tell you a little bit about Singapore's incredible Gardens by the Bay, which is a must-see in itself, and also offers many free activities. We will then show you some of our Garden Rhapsody Light Show highlights, along with how to get to the Spectra Light Show from there, and what to expect once you get to Marina Bay Sands. Oh and just so you know, if you prefer video highlights, we have that covered too!

In This Post...

● What is Gardens by the Bay?

● The Garden Rhapsody Light & Sound Show

● The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

● Spectra - A Light & Water Show

● How to Get from Gardens by the Bay to Spectra

● Our Garden Rhapsody & Spectra Light Show Experience Rating

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What Is Gardens by the Bay in Singapore?

Gardens by the Bay's story is one of vision, innovation, and a deep love for nature. It's a tale that stretches back to 2005, when Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, dreamt of transforming the city from a "Garden City" to a "City in a Garden." He envisioned a green oasis amidst the urban jungle, a space that would boost environmental sustainability, enhance quality of life, and become a national icon.

In 2007, the seeds of this futuristic Eden were sown. Supertrees, the now-iconic vertical gardens, rose from the ground, their steel skeletons soon adorned with a vibrant tapestry of plants. Cooled conservatories, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, were constructed, promising journeys into fantastical ecosystems. Every element, from the cascading waterfalls to the intricate walkways, was meticulously designed to celebrate nature and its vital role in a thriving city.

Woman with braided hair and a tattoo walks past "Gardens by the Bay" sign under a cloudy sky, holding a water bottle. Trees and construction visible.

At the heart of Gardens by the Bay lies the iconic Supertree Grove, a mesmerizing forest of 18 steel giants reaching towards the heavens. These aren't your average trees, though. These are marvels of innovation and beauty, blending nature and technology like a futuristic fairy tale. Supertrees range from 25 to 50 meters tall, dwarfing visitors and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Gardens and beyond.

Tall, tree-like structure with intertwined branches in a lush garden setting. Various shades of green dominate the scene under a cloudy sky.

But these titans aren't just empty shells. Their "skin" is adorned with a breathtaking vertical garden, housing over 162,900 plants of more than 200 species. Bromeliads, orchids, ferns, and flowering climbers weave a tapestry of life across the steel skeleton, creating a stunning ecosystem in the sky.

Tall, tree-like structures in a garden with people walking below. Overcast sky, lush greenery, and a futuristic vibe.

These aren't just aesthetic marvels; they're champions of sustainability. Seven of the Supertrees are equipped with photovoltaic cells, harvesting solar energy to power the Gardens' lighting and irrigation systems. Others function as air exhausts for the cooled conservatories, contributing to the Gardens' efficient climate control.

The best part is that much if the site is completely FREE to walk around, relax and chill! There are a plethora of monuments, themed parks, exhibits and leisure areas too. This is THE place to be in Singapore, especially if you only have limited time and a tight budget!

Giant tree-like structures covered in greenery, connected by a skywalk, surrounded by lush foliage under a cloudy sky. People walk on the bridge.

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The Garden Rhapsody Light & Sound Show

So now that you know about Gardens by the Bay, lets get to know the epic Garden Rhapsody Light Show. A breathtaking display of lights, music, and technology set amidst the lush greenery of one of Singapore's most iconic attractions, this is a must-see. Here's everything you need to know about this enchanting spectacle!

Vibrant purple and blue illuminated structure resembling a tree against night sky, with intricate branch patterns and foliage. Futuristic mood.

⪢ Location

The Garden Rhapsody Light Show takes place at Gardens by the Bay, a sprawling nature park located in the heart of Singapore. The show specifically occurs in the Supertree Grove, where towering vertical gardens known as Supertrees stand.

⪢ Schedule

The show typically runs twice nightly, with the first showing starting around 7:45 PM and the second around 8:45 PM.

⪢ Duration

Each performance of Garden Rhapsody lasts for approximately 15 minutes, during which the Supertrees come alive with a dazzling display of lights and music.

⪢ Themes

The show features different themes throughout the year, ranging from seasonal celebrations to collaborations with renowned artists and musicians. These themes often incorporate elements of nature, technology, and Singaporean culture, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for the audience.

⪢ Technology

The Garden Rhapsody Light Show utilizes cutting-edge lighting and projection technology to illuminate the Supertrees in a mesmerizing array of colors and patterns. Synchronized to an evocative soundtrack, the lights dance across the Supertrees, creating a harmonious blend of music and visual artistry.

Illuminated tree-like structures with glowing green and blue lights against a dark night sky, creating a vibrant and futuristic mood.

⪢ Free Admission

Similar to the Spectra Light Show, Garden Rhapsody is free for all visitors to Gardens by the Bay, making it accessible to both locals and tourists.

⪢ Crowd Experience

The Supertree Grove can get quite crowded during the show, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early can help you secure a good spot for viewing the spectacle, whether you prefer to watch from directly beneath the Supertrees or from a distance.

⪢ Best Viewing Spots

While the entire Supertree Grove offers excellent vantage points for viewing the show, some of the best spots include the viewing deck at the OCBC Skyway, which provides a bird's-eye view of the illuminated Supertrees, as well as the ground-level viewing areas surrounding the grove.

⪢ Additional Tips

It's a good idea to arrive at Gardens by the Bay well before the showtime to explore the park's other attractions, such as the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories.

The Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Gardens by the Bay offers a magical experience that combines nature, art, and technology in a unique and unforgettable way. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Singapore or a seasoned traveler, this enchanting spectacle is sure to leave you awestruck!

People walking by high-rise buildings and ArtScience Museum at night in Singapore. The skyline is illuminated, with a lively, vibrant mood.

If, like us you go for the 7.45pm showing, you will be able to comfortably make the Spectra Light Show at 9pm, via The Shoppes Mall in Marina Bay Sands. Much of the crowd will most likely be doing the same thing! It is an impressive walk, with plenty of awesome photo opportunities taking the bridge out of Gardens by the Bay, over the highway that cuts across the lit skyscrapers of the Singapore cityscape, and into the architectural marvel that is the famous hotel itself.

Take a closer look at our walk through the mall in the next section, before we get to the marvel that is the Spectra Light and Water Show!

City skyline at night with illuminated skyscrapers, lush greenery, and a reflective river. Calm atmosphere with glowing lights.

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Dive into Luxury & Dazzling Delights: Exploring The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Imagine strolling through a shopping paradise bathed in the glow of Singapore's skyline. Picture iconic luxury brands lining opulent avenues, all accessible from the comfort of a world-class resort. That's the magic of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, a retail wonderland that is every bit as fashionable as the stores themselves.

People walk in a bustling shopping center with a canal and red boats below. Signs point to Casino and Expo areas. Bright, lively atmosphere.

The bridge over the highway leads straight into the mall, and the entrance is impressive. It brings you out at the upper level, so you get to see the full spectacle of the mall itself. It has been designed to impress, and will have you looking all over the place at the sparkly signs and interesting features, such as the canal that runs through the middle of it!

While only here for a short time as we were passing through to grab a good spot for the light show, we immediately knew it was worth coming back to check out further! We hope you do too. Here are a few things you can expect at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands:

⪢ Step into a Fashion Fairy-tale

Prepare to be dazzled by over 170 luxury boutiques, each housing the crème de la crème of fashion. Think Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton – the list goes on! Witness the architectural marvel of the world's only floating Louis Vuitton Island Maison, or marvel at the unique Apple store, entirely surrounded by water. It's a feast for the eyes, even if your wallet begs to differ!

⪢ Beyond Retail Bliss

The Shoppes is more than just designer labels. Indulge in a culinary adventure with over 200 restaurants and cafes, from Michelin-starred delights to casual bites. Craving dim sum with a view? Or perhaps a sky-high cocktail overlooking the city lights? The Shoppes caters to every palate and mood.

Fountain with swirling water and glass structure, surrounded by people watching. Evening setting, reflections visible. Energetic and vibrant.

⪢ A Jewel of a Fountain

Before you enter the shopping haven, don't miss the mesmerizing Jewel, a captivating rain vortex cascading through a seven-story atrium. It's a free, Instagram-worthy spectacle that sets the stage for your luxurious adventure. If you are coming from Gardens by the Bay entrance, you will find it at the opposite end as you walk in.

⪢ Effortless Connectivity

The Shoppes seamlessly connects to the Bayfront MRT station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Singapore. No need to worry about taxis or navigating traffic – just hop on the train and be whisked away to your shopping haven.

⪢ Foodie Paradise

From casual food courts to celebrity chef restaurants, The Shoppes caters to every craving. Indulge in Michelin-starred delights at Beni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, savor authentic Italian fare at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, or grab a quick bite at the many food courts offering local and international cuisine.

Oh and a quick shout out to TWG Tea on the Bay for this epic store! We both love tea, and when we saw this place we were hugely impressed with its stunning appearance! What a great store! If you are a tea lover like us, you are going to want to check this place out.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is more than just a shopping mall; it's an experience. It's a chance to indulge in luxury, savor world-class cuisine, and marvel at architectural wonders. So pack your bags (and your credit card!), and get ready to embark on a shopping adventure you'll never forget!

Bonus Tip: Check out The Shoppes' website for exclusive deals, events, and a directory of all the amazing stores and restaurants waiting to be explored!

Night view of a cityscape with a glowing hotel, illuminated ferris wheel, and vibrant skyline reflected in a river lined with trees.

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Spectra - A Light & Water Show

The Spectra Light Show in Singapore is a captivating audio-visual extravaganza that takes place along the iconic Marina Bay waterfront. It's one of the city-state's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its mesmerizing display of lights, music, and water effects.

Night city skyline with a vibrant water fountain show. Purple lights arc over the water, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from the Spectra Light Show: