The 23rd edition of the festival explores Singapore’s maritime heritage through river rides, island tours and immersive experiences.
Singapore’s story has always been shaped by the sea. From its historic trading routes and bustling ports to the communities that arrived by water, maritime heritage has played a defining role in the country’s identity. Now, Singapore HeritageFest 2026 is bringing those stories to life across the island.
Returning for its 23rd edition, Singapore HeritageFest 2026 will run from 1 to 24 May 2026. This year’s theme turns the spotlight on Singapore’s maritime past, exploring how trade, migration, food, culture and coastal life helped shape the city-state into the global hub it is today. Organised by HeritageSG, a subsidiary of the National Heritage Board, the festival will feature more than 100 programmes across Singapore.
Rather than keeping history behind glass, Singapore HeritageFest invites visitors to step into it. The 2026 programme includes performances, guided trails, exhibitions, workshops, tours and interactive installations, offering something for families, culture lovers and curious explorers.
A key festival hub will be HOMEGROUND @ ACM Green, located outside the Asian Civilisations Museum. Designed as an immersive festival village, it will bring maritime heritage to life through food, retail, performances, hands-on activities and an outdoor exhibition. The festival experience takes place on Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 24 May 2026, while the outdoor exhibition runs from 24 April to 24 May 2026.
One of the highlights is A Bump Through Time, Singapore HeritageFest’s first theatrical bumboat experience. Taking place along the Singapore River, the journey invites visitors to travel between Clarke Quay and Marina Bay while encountering live storytelling inspired by trade, migration and life along the riverfront.
The festival also opens the door to working and rarely explored spaces. Tours will offer a closer look at Singapore’s port legacy, while visits to places such as Jurong Fishery Port connect the country’s maritime network to everyday food culture. For those looking beyond the city, programmes on Pulau Ubin explore island life, coastal traditions and folklore.
Elsewhere, visitors can join workshops on spices, batik storytelling, archaeology and global trade routes, each showing how people, goods and ideas have travelled to Singapore over generations. Across the island, heritage trails, museum tours, music events and public installations will add further layers to the programme.
Where: Across Singapore
When: 1 to 24 May 2026
Contact: www.heritage.sg