6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Christmas Wonderland 2016

Singapore's biggest yuletide fair, Christmas Wonderland returns for its third edition this year at almost twice the size as when it first started. Pop by Gardens by the Bay from now till January 1 2017 to bask in the festive atmosphere. Here are six reasons why you should certainly go.

1. Let it snow (sort of) right here in Singapore! 

Source: Christmas Wonderland

Not actual snow per se, but probably the closest we can get in sunny Singapore (and it does get the little ones equally excited :P). The Spalliera Castel del Monte, Southeast Asia's largest Luminarie sculpture, hosts 'Blizzard Time' daily at regular timings. Come revel in the wonder of snowflakes (foam) for a good five minutes each session!

2. Escape our perpetual heat in the Ice Palace and skate to your heart's delight! 

Source: Christmas Wonderland

Truth be told, Singapore's outdoor weather is not exactly ideal for Christmas merriments (however hard we try). This year, fret no longer and scurry into the Ice Palace to forget all about the relentless heat and humidity outside. Take on the 400 square metre indoor skating rink, slide down the 25 metre-long Ice Slide, or better still, let loose with a little snowball fight in the Snow Playground! Just remember to bring along a jacket 'cause it might get a little cold inside!

3. Instagram worthy shots aplenty. 

Source: Christmas Wonderland

Prepared to be dazzled by the magnificent lights all over the carnival grounds, with more than 60 Luminarie light sculptures on display nestled amidst the greenery within the Supertree Grove and the Dragonfly Bridge. This year, the sculptures feature an all-new 17th and 18th century Baroque architectural style, which is truly breathtaking to say the least.

4. Is it Santa's Polar Express at Gardens by the Bay? 

Source: Christmas Wonderland

In case you were wondering, Christmas Wonderland this year actually occupies a sprawling 57,000 square metres compared to last year's 35,000 square metres. What this means is that if you're carrying a toddler (or just a heavy backpack from school or work), it might be a hassle to cover all the sights at a comfortable pace. Hop onboard the Christmas train, and keep your eyes peeled for all the magnificent light displays all without leaving the comfort of your seat.

5. Sing along to Christmas Carols at the Cassa Armonica del Monte.

Source: Christmas Wonderland

What's Christmas without some good old Christmas carols? Enjoy a slew of traditional Christmas songs at the 8-metre tall Cassa Armonica del Monte gazebo, performed by some of Singapore's acclaimed choir groups from various schools, like the NTU Alumni Choir and the Dunman High School Choir.

6. Gingerbread mint hot chocolate? Honey Glazed Turkey Ham with Cranberry Sauce? Mulled wine? YES PLEASE

Source: Christmas Wonderland

All those ice skating and snowman building is sure to whet up an appetite, which is the perfect cue for a leisure stroll around the European-style Festive Market. Dig in to a wide array of tasty treats, such as the crispy Belgian waffles from Waffle Fling and fluffy poffertjes from The Dutch Pancake Store. I don't know about you, but the Crispy Cinnamon Apple Wanton (a Christmas Wonderland exclusive from the Travelling C.O.W) sounds extremely tantalising to me.

If you're more of a sit-down-and-eat kind of person, score yourself front-seats row to all the ice skating action at La Noël chez PAUL overlooking the rink. The Glass House by Harry's, a two-storey establishment is also another delightful option to enjoy a festive meal while taking in the amazing vantage view of the Spalliera Castel de Monte, the majestic Supertrees, and the Festive Market.

 This article was written by Ivan Lim