This year marks 15 years since the festival first opened its gates, and it continues to evolve with the city around it. What began as a scrappy, independent gathering has become one of Asia’s most anticipated festivals, not by scaling up endlessly, but by staying close to the city it was built for.

A Lineup That Crosses Borders and Generations

The 2025 edition brings with it a lineup that spans decades and continents. Bloc Party headlines Saturday night with their first-ever Hong Kong performance, an overdue arrival for one of the UK’s most influential indie rock acts. My Bloody Valentine closes Sunday with a rare live set that will likely be one of the weekend’s most talked-about moments. On Friday, J-pop’s phenomenon Vaundy appears for the first time outside Japan, adding youthful voltage to the programme.

Elsewhere, the curation feels like a mixtape made with intent. From Franz Ferdinand’s irrepressible post-punk to the melancholic poetics of Bright Eyes, from the trip-hop ether of Beth Gibbons to the cinematic sprawl of Godspeed You! Black Emperor, the festival traverses multiple sonic worlds with a coherence that’s more felt than declared.

Emerging voices from Asia and beyond: Thai troubadour Phum Viphurit, Indonesian rapper Rich Brian, Polish guitar virtuoso Marcin, add layers of texture and surprise, reflecting Clockenflap’s ethos of cultural cross-pollination.

More Than Music

Clockenflap has never been just about music. This year’s centrepiece, Minimax: The Planets, reimagines Gustav Holst’s celestial suite as a roving kinetic theatre work, part dance, part sculpture, part social experiment. Conceived by Clockenflap’s own Jay Hofmann-Forster and realised by Screw Up Studio, it draws audiences into a ritualised performance that moves through the festival’s architecture.

With five stages spread across the site, there’s no single centre of gravity. One moment might find you caught in a rush of UK electro at the Robot Stage; the next, quietly listening to a solo set on the grassy incline near Park Stage. The spaces in between: the art installations, food stalls, and spontaneous interactions, are just as important as the headline acts.

Local Energy, Regional Reach

At its core, Clockenflap is a portrait of its host city. In 2025, that means more local collaboration than ever: rappers Billy Choi and Ki Chan join forces with YouTube personality JFFT; jazz collective Fountain de Chopin partners with vocalist Lai Ying. These are not side acts, but centrepieces in their own right.

Food, too, is part of the conversation. Sixteen of the city’s most compelling food concepts, from TamJai’s fiery noodle broths to craft tacos and vegan gelato, serve as an edible index of Hong Kong’s evolving foodscape.

And Clockenflap is just the beginning. For those arriving from out of town (or locals looking to see their city anew), there’s plenty more to explore beyond the harbourfront. From steaming baskets of dim sum at timeless teahouses to the city’s new wave of boundary-pushing bars and hotels, Hong Kong’s cultural revival is happening at every level. Rediscover the city with our guide to new experiences, hotels, and restaurants, or plan a morning-after recharge with our take on where to go for Yum Cha in Hong Kong.

Family-Friendly, Future-Facing

One of Clockenflap’s defining features is its multigenerational appeal. Alongside the main programming, there’s a full slate of children’s workshops, performance spaces, and interactive installations. The festival design allows for both immersion and pause for music lovers, families, and the simply curious.

Sustainability isn’t tacked on as a gesture. It’s embedded in the experience: biodegradable packaging, refill stations, and a push to reduce waste without diminishing joy.

For three days each year, Clockenflap turns the city inside out. It offers a version of Hong Kong that’s lighter on hierarchy, looser in rhythm, and more open to the unexpected. You don’t just attend Clockenflap. You move through it, along with thousands of others, each drawn by their own reasons and finding new ones along the way.

Clockenflap 2025 runs from 5 to 7 December at the Central Harbourfront. Tickets are available via clockenflap.com with three-day General Admission passes at HK$1,990 and single-day tickets at HK$1,280. Discounts are available for under-18s, and children under three enter free. For artist updates and behind-the-scenes previews, follow @clockenflap on Instagram.

The post Clockenflap Returns: Hong Kong’s Music & Arts Giant Reclaims the Harbourfront appeared first on City Nomads.

Part private club, part artistic salon, and part culinary destination, The Consul Bangkok draws inspiration from the city’s history as a meeting point of ideas. But rather than emulate the gilded exclusivity of traditional members-only enclaves, it proposes something more grounded: depth of experience, thoughtful curation, and a regional perspective that feels genuinely of-the-moment.

Designed in collaboration with Team Wang Design under the creative direction of Jackson Wang, the club unfolds across two top floors with sweeping skyline views. Inside, members move between a refined Chinese restaurant led by Chef Benson Feng, a stylish supper club with live performances, and the headline attraction – Bar Won, the signature bar concept by the team behind Alice in Seoul, a mainstay on Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Known for its theatrical flair and precision mixology, Alice’s legacy informs Bar Won’s elevated yet playful approach, positioning it as one of the most anticipated openings on Bangkok’s bar scene.

Bar Won, perched like a crown above the dining space, isn’t merely about drinks. Its name, derived from the word “one” and symbolic of harmony and origin, sets the tone for a 12-drink signature menu that reinterprets global art through Thai ingredients. Each creation is an ode to form and balance, while the classics are quietly perfect: no gimmicks, just craftsmanship.

As night falls, the elegant dining room morphs into a supper club infused with live music and ambient energy. The Consul’s approach to hospitality is atmospheric, but never overproduced. It’s Bangkok’s social rhythms, refracted through a new lens.

But there’s more. For those craving intimacy, The Consul Bangkok offers members-only spaces including private dining rooms, a cigar lounge, and an investors’ salon, all designed for elevated dialogue and discretion. And then, there’s the world-exclusive Yang Club by Team Wang Design, helmed by Jackson Wang. Blending lifestyle, sound, and creative experimentation, Yang Club is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about members-only concepts in Asia.

It’s no surprise then that early-bird memberships to this members club in Bangkok have already sold out. A limited number of memberships will be released upon launch, an invitation to be part of something distinct in the evolving story of Bangkok social clubs.

In an age of overstimulation, The Consul Bangkok invites you to slow down, lean in, and truly connect. For those seeking access to one of the city’s most culturally attuned social clubs, membership inquiries can be directed to membership@theconsul.club.

The post The Consul Bangkok: A New Kind of Members Club Reimagines the Social Club Landscape appeared first on City Nomads.

As part of City Nomads Radio, our ongoing series spotlighting regional DJs and musicians, we caught up with HIMMAT to talk about his creative life, his transition from corporate to artistic purpose, and how courage (the meaning behind “HIMMAT”) continues to guide him.

You often talk about duality: chaos and calm, the party and the prayer. How does that translate into your music?

HIMMAT: Growing up in Amsterdam, as you can imagine, hedonism and partying are the norm and I was very much in that world, that was my thing. But then I had some big life shifts. I was diagnosed with severe ADHD at age 17, which came with a lot of challenges. I really struggled to make sense of it all, until my best friend introduced me to mindfulness, and specifically meditation. This changed everything. Through daily practice and consistency, I found my way to surf through the chaos. What was once a nuisance became something I could work with in a positive way, almost as a strength. It gives me a lot of creative benefits.

So even with both sides of the duality still in me, mindfulness became the anchor. It’s the thing that helps me come back to myself when my mind flies far or I get distracted. During COVID, when everyone was either partying online or forced to sit with themselves, meditation became my main tool. It pushed me into deep inner work and self-discovery. And at that same time, music arrived. I was always on the promoter side of things, organizing parties and bringing DJs & musicians together, but when I couldn’t enjoy those scenes during COVID, I thought, okay, I’ll just do it myself. So I started DJing and that’s where music and consciousness merged for me. That’s the duality you hear in my sets: chaos and calm, movement and stillness, the party and the prayer.

You grew up in Amsterdam, one of the most creative cities in the world. What was it like growing up there, and how did that shape your creative side?

HIMMAT: One thing that’s really cool is because I come from multiple cultures and I grew up in the most multicultural cities in Europe. For example, in my class alone, there were thirty kids with nearly 18-19 different nationalities. Having influences from so many different cultures is what drives my music. And if you ever hear me play live or listen to my SoundCloud sets, it’s a journey through the world because it’s how I like to experience life. It’s honouring all the different cultures that inspire me.

What does your name ‘HIMMAT’ mean?

HIMMAT: ‘Himmat’ means courage in Punjabi. So, Punjabis are known to do things with courage, they are the warriors of India and Pakistan. Not just the physical fighters, but also spiritual fighters. For me, the name is related to courage, like dare to do whatever you feel is right. In my case, being a DJ from a Muslim family, that takes courage, it’s doing things because your heart is in it. My mum used to tell me this phrase in Urdu: whatever you do, do it with courage. It stuck with me.

You’ve played everywhere from Burning Man, Bali Spirit Festival to the jungles of Colombia. Do the crowds or cultures change the way you play?

HIMMAT: Yeah, totally. I’ve had the pleasure of playing festivals all over the world, and every single one is completely different. One huge highlight for me was playing at Kaleidoscope Festival in Kenya last year. The energy on that dance floor was unreal! I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. The way people moved, the connection, the joy. It reminded me why I do this.

Burning Man, on the other hand, is a whole different world. The last time I went was actually our honeymoon. Totally unplanned. We decided two days before the burn to just go. I wasn’t even planning to play this time around, but it happened, and it was beautiful. The thing about Burning Man is that it really changes your philosophy on life. It’s not just about music, it’s about radical participation, about giving rather than taking. Everyone contributes something, and that energy of co-creation stays with you.

Even back home in Bali, you feel that influence everywhere. We host gatherings on our rooftop where everyone brings something to share: a guitar, a breathwork session, homemade kombucha. That’s the spirit I try to bring into my sets too. Wherever I play, the essence is the same: I bring who I am, and I hold space for people to connect through sound and through each other.

There’s been a lot of conversation around sober parties and ecstatic dance lately. As someone who’s played both traditional club sets and conscious events, what’s your take on it?

HIMMAT: Yeah, so from a personal angle, I stopped drinking over a year ago. For me, playing at 3am in a club when I’m sober and everyone else is f***** up is completely different from playing at 10am for a fresh, present audience. At sober parties, I personally feel more connected; I can actually see the journey people go through, from discomfort to freedom. Both kinds of parties have important values. You absolutely need the night and the day, both energies. The problem only comes when people start judging one as better than the other. There should be space for everything, both are powerful and important.

Speaking of creation, tell us about HAYAQI, the fashion brand you and your wife Livy founded.

HIMMAT: HAYAQI was born during our honeymoon in northern Pakistan. It’s my favourite place in the world. We were standing by Attabad Lake, this surreal turquoise expanse surrounded by mountains, and behind us was the Pakistan–China Friendship Wall. She’s Chinese, I’m Pakistani, and it just hit us. We were literally standing at the intersection of who we are. It felt like the universe saying, you two need to do something with this.

A lot of our love story has been about educating people on our cultures and celebrating what makes them unique. So we thought, why not build something that honours where we’re from and brings together what we love: fashion and sustainability? Our brand is really a reflection of who we are, together we come from six different cultures. ‘HAYAQI’ comes from “Hayat”, which means life in Arabic, and “Qi”, which means energy in Chinese, so it represents the things that give you energy in life. Each year, we create one collection inspired by one of the cultures we’re from. Livy had already been running a creative agency for sustainable brands, and I was looking to pivot into sustainability. So we decided to create a fashion brand that fuses both worlds.

Then something wildly synchronistic happened. Two of our close friends asked us to design their wedding outfits. We had very little design experience, but it felt like no coincidence. It was the perfect pilot. We made an entire first collection in flow, flew to Marrakesh for their wedding, chanced upon an incredible photographer, and shot our entire first campaign there. People loved it. It was that moment of validation where we thought, okay, maybe this is something real. Since then, we’ve been building the brand with purpose. Fashion that carries energy, culture, and meaning in every piece.

You and Livy seem to balance each other naturally. How do your roles differ when it comes to running HAYAQI together?

HIMMAT: To be honest, in the beginning this was a challenge, but through communication and focusing on our strengths, we’ve found a way that works for us. With HAYAQI, Liv is more hands-on in the creative side, and I take on more of the operations and business direction. It works really well because I can bring in the skills I developed over seven years at Google. The systems, the organisation, the leadership side while she brings this incredible vision and artistry. Working together is powerful, because we understand each other’s strengths, not just in business, but also in life. And honestly, the balance is beautiful.

You left a decade-long corporate career, with 7 years at Google for this creative life. How did that decision feel?

HIMMAT: : Man, it’s been a journey. I’d been at Google for over 7 years, working across Europe and then leading marketing for South Asia. My mission was to set up Google Pakistan, which felt full circle because I’m half Pakistani, and the project was finally coming to life. But at that point, Livy and I had just gotten married, and we started asking ourselves where we really wanted to be. We were both in this very masculine, go-do, corporate rhythm, and we wanted something more creative, more connected to nature and flow. We both felt a strong pull to Bali, and wanted to follow our intuition. So I chose courage. I quit, and we came here with no idea what would happen next, trusting that things would unfold, and they did.

What’s your dream for HIMMAT and HAYAQI in the next five years? And what kind of impact do you hope someone feels when they encounter your work, whether that’s dancing at your set or wearing HAYAQI?

HIMMAT: Yeah, for sure. So I’ll start with HIMMAT. What I’m doing a lot now are hybrid acts. I love the potency of performing alongside other musicians and it’s about understanding the collective intention of the creation and making something that really flows, with no egos, and lots of trust. My dream is to evolve the musicality of what I do through co-creation, to collaborate with other artists and keep showing my sound across the world. Every time I play in a new country, it feels refreshing for people like I’m bringing a new way of experiencing music, and that’s inspiring.

And for HAYAQI, it’s exactly this. To keep telling the stories of the different cultures we represent, to put faces to the people making these beautiful pieces, to show where it all comes from and why. We work with local communities, and our whole supply chain is local, which brings real positive impact. I hope we can keep doing that. It’s also about cultural storytelling, going a layer deeper. When we wear something, can we ask: where does it come from? What makes it unique? I want people to be more aware and conscious about what they wear and why, just like I want them to feel that same presence and connection when they dance to my music.

If HAYAQI were a DJ set, what would it sound like?

HIMMAT: It would 100% be a journey across the world, weaving the sounds and the rhythms of cultures that inspire me into one groovy story. I hope you can hear this back in the mix I prepared for City Nomads!

Grounded and self-assured, HIMMAT is finding the rhythm between creativity, mindfulness, and purpose, building a life that feels fully his own. His mix for City Nomads Radio reflects that same spirit: a global journey through sound, where melodies, voices, and textures from around the world meet in harmony. It’s something to groove to, unwind with, and simply let carry you a reminder of how music connects us across cultures and moments.

Listen to HIMMAT’s exclusive City Nomads Radio mix and follow him on Instagram @withhimmat for his latest projects and performances.

The post From Google to Groove: HIMMAT’s Journey Through Courage, Music and Mindfulness appeared first on City Nomads.

For the Skyline View

High above the bustle, the SkyPark Observation Deck sets the tone. Perched 56 storeys above the city, the deck offers an expansive view stretching from Marina Bay to the distant hills of Malaysia on a clear day. But beyond the selfie-worthy angles and sweeping vistas, there’s also a chance to dip into the story of this iconic precinct through the Skyline Singapore: Stories from Above showcase.

The showcase brings context to the view. Unfolding along the path to the SkyPark Observation Deck, it chronicles Marina Bay’s transformation from reclaimed land to a glittering urban icon. Through archival footage, multimedia installations, and curated narratives, guests gain insight into how urban visionaries, architects, and community leaders shaped the district. It adds depth to the view, not just a pretty cityscape, but an understanding of how far this city has come.

For the Art Lovers: ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum is where imagination takes over. A cultural cornerstone where creativity and technology are at the forefront of its programming. At teamLab Future World. This permanent exhibition is divided into two immersive realms: City in Nature and Exploring New Frontiers, each offering responsive environments that change with every step, gesture, and presence.

In City in Nature, works like Continuous Life and Death respond to how you move through the space. Stand still and flowers begin to bloom. Reach out and petals drift away. At the interactive slide, Sliding through the Fruit Field, kids (and adults) slide down a digital hill, triggering fruit to ripen or scatter. It’s playful, yes, but layered with ideas about how we affect the world around us, and leaves us with a tactile memory.

Entering Exploring New Frontiers, the installation Crystal Universe feels like stepping into the cosmos. Thousands of LED lights mimic a galaxy in motion, and with a simple tap on your phone, you can introduce a new celestial element into the scene. It’s immersive, atmospheric, and strangely meditative. Nothing here is static. It shifts, adapts, and reacts to each person in the room.

What makes Future World so captivating is how it dissolves the boundary between art and audience. It invites you to touch, move, even play, reminding us that creativity and connection go hand-in-hand.

Over at SingaPop!, a colourful celebration of 60 years of Singapore’s pop culture, we walk through Singapore’s coming-of-age story, from its early music and TV shows to fashion, slang, and food. Curated by cultural icon Dick Lee, it will amuse you with hawker centre nostalgia, Singlish soundbites, and retro festival wear. You can belt out a karaoke tune, try on old-school outfits, or simply take a moment to think about how Singapore’s culture, past and future, keeps reinventing itself. Like good rojak, it only gets richer the more it mixes.

Nearby, Another World is Possible turns the lens forward. This new exhibition looks at how artists and designers imagine the future through cinema, architecture, design, and speculative fiction. It’s a reminder that the ArtScience Museum is a space for imagining what could come next.

For the Families with Young Explorers

Looking for a shift from spectacle to smaller quieter encounters? Head down to the Sampan Rides at The Shoppes. These short boat journeys along the indoor canal are a quiet nod to Singapore’s trading past. Beneath the Rain Oculus, a giant skylight that pours water in dramatic fashion, you get a surprising moment of calm amid the buzz.

Just steps away lies another teamLab permanent installation. With Digital Light Canvas, the creative magic continues. Here, the floor beneath your feet becomes a responsive surface, lighting up with blooming flowers or darting schools of koi. It’s a simple joy, watching your steps leave a trail of colour and motion.

Beyond the play of light, Digital Light Canvas offers a thoughtful way to take a piece of the experience home. Through Sketch Factory and Papercraft, you can customise your own keepsake, turning a drawing or digital design into a one-of-a-kind souvenir. A quiet, creative alternative to the usual retail therapy.

Evening Highlights

As golden hour melts into evening, Marina Bay Sands takes on a different rhythm. For those craving culture, the Sands Theatre is a reliable ticket to something world-class. The space plays host to Broadway blockbusters and more. A revolving lineup that matches the scale of its surroundings.

But if theatre isn’t your thing, swing back up to the SkyPark for Silent Disco in the Sky. Held monthly, this rooftop party trades speakers for wireless headphones. You choose the DJ, the vibe, the tempo, all while dancing under the stars with the city laid out below you. There’s something quietly euphoric about it. No noise complaints. Just bodies in motion, a whole lot of singing only they can hear, set against one of the world’s most photogenic backdrops.

A Month of Family Fun, Art, and Skyline Magic

As the city lights up for Deepavali long weekend, there’s no better time to explore the fun-filled experiences at Marina Bay Sands. Between exhibitions, skyline views, and family moments, it becomes a space where art and play share the same stage. This October, families have an extra reason to visitThis October, families have an extra reason to visit.. In celebration of Children’s Day, from 3 to 31 October 2025, every adult ticket purchased to SingaPop! 60 Years of Singapore Pop Culture, Another World Is Possible, Sampan Rides, or Digital Light Canvas by teamLab comes with two complimentary tickets for children aged 2 to 12. A chance for families to explore together and see the city through fresh eyes.

Beyond the panoramic skyline views and luxurious stays, Marina Bay Sands transforms into a cultural hub during the festive season, from art exhibitions at the ArtScience Museum and indulgent dining at celebrity chef restaurants, to dazzling light shows and retail therapy at The Shoppes. Whether you’re catching a live performance, unwinding at the SkyPark or simply soaking in the festive glow, MBS offers something for every moodWhether you’re catching a live performance, unwinding at the SkyPark or simply soaking in the festive glow, MBS offers something for every mood.
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Featured photo: Courtesy of Marina Bay Sands

The post Marina Bay Sands: Inside the World of Art and Entertainment at Singapore’s Skyline Icon appeared first on City Nomads.

Nestled in the heart of Thonglor, this open-air lifestyle complex has long been a cornerstone of the capital’s creative and culinary landscape. A place where ramen met rave, and where conversations stretched long past midnight. Much like the city’s best cocktail bars that blend craft and community, 72 Courtyard was built on connection, a gathering ground for chefs, DJs, artists, and the endlessly curious.

Since opening in 2015, the Courtyard has hosted an ever-evolving lineup of restaurants and bars that mirrored Bangkok’s appetite for reinvention. From the comforting umami bowls at Kenji’s Ramen Lab and the playful plates at Beer Belly, to the low-lit charm of Feral Wine Bar, each venue carved its own corner in Thonglor’s story.

Throughout October, expect the same spirit of generosity and mischief that made 72 Courtyard what it is. Participating venues are offering 30% discounts, special menus, and Halloween-themed collaborations, including kitchen takeovers by Bangkok favourites like Baan Lamyai, La Lupita Taqueria, and Oxbo. The final week (24–31 October) will be a curtain call filled with curated chaos: themed menus, parties, and one last all-in blowout.

BEAM: Bangkok’s Sonic Church Signs Off

And then there’s BEAM. More than just a club, it was a rite of passage. With its minimalist design, world-class sound system, and uncompromising programming, BEAM championed underground electronic music at a time when Bangkok sorely needed it. For many, it was a second home.

BEAM will host its final night on October 31, a double-headliner affair that promises to be unforgettable. Its younger sibling, BEAMCUBE, will continue through 29 November, featuring international names like Jamz Supernova and Suze Ijó, as well as local collectives such as Kade & Co, Boink, and Sugar Rush Thai Dance.

Importantly, this isn’t a funeral. It’s a transformation. “The message is clear: BEAM is not gone, it’s changing shape,” the team writes. The music, the energy, the culture, those parts don’t fade. They evolve.

A Space That Meant More

In a city chasing the next new thing, 72 Courtyard carved out something rare: consistency with edge. It was Bangkok at its most interesting. Cosmopolitan, collaborative, and a little wild around the edges. It reminded us that good nights aren’t about opulence, but about people. About connection.

So if you ever stumbled out of a BEAM set blinking into the humid 2am air, or discovered your new favourite wine under Feral’s moody lighting, or just came for the ramen and stayed for the vibe, this farewell is for you.

This October, Bangkok says goodbye. One last dance. One more drink. Ten years of memories.

See you in the courtyard, while it lasts.

The post Bangkok’s 72 Courtyard in Thonglor Closes After a Decade of Food, Music, and Culture appeared first on City Nomads.

AFTER 2049

On 3 October, AFTER 2049 returns to the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands to officially close TOKEN2049 and unofficially kick off F1 weekend in style. Headlining the night is Lisbon-based duo Mind Against, known for their brooding, synth-heavy sets, alongside fast-rising B2B duo Ajna & Samm, whose Afro-house and melodic techno blend is reshaping dancefloors across Europe. With support from ANONM, Leon (FR), Milam, and Mo-Shi, this is a proper burner. But what truly sets it apart? A hemispherical 360° spatial audio setup by Polygon Live, the only one in Asia this year.

Here’s why this is the rooftop party to be at. Final release tickets at S$249 via Megatix, available from 27 September.
📍3 Oct, 10pm–late, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck.

Exclusively for City Nomads readers, enjoy early bird pricing at S$149 until 12PM on 3 October 2025, just purchase through this link.

QT Singapore: From Sound Baths to Skyline Beats

Rewriting the F1 playbook, QT Singapore blends mindful movement with nocturnal energy in a full-spectrum weekend experience. On 4 October, the day begins with a floating soundbath (8–9am) led by Mae Kwan, wellness coach and creator of UNSTUCK™️. From 10am to 2pm, guests alternate icy plunges and steam sessions during IMMERSION by WILD Pearl & Tundra, followed by a chakra-charged dance set with live beats by DJ Maurice. By afternoon, the rooftop lights up with DJs from Manifest and a Chivas launch. On Sunday, start with a 5km run by Off Form Run Club, then ease into the Sunday Reset (11am–5pm) by 528 Collective, with cocktails by Fura and sun-drenched grooves.

For information, visit qthotels.com/singapore.
📍4 Oct, 8am-10pm & 5 Oct, 8am-5pm, 35 Robinson Road.

Aperol Spritz Chasing Sunsets at NOVA

For race weekend, Aperol brings its golden-hour glow to the city’s highest rooftop with Chasing Sunsets at NOVA, a double-bill sundown party above the grid. On 4 October, this one-night only celebration transforms NOVA’s dual-level rooftop into a sunset-to-late Aperitivo oasis. Expect free-flow Aperol Spritz, curated cocktails, champagne and gourmet canapés, while live screening and prime views of the F1 qualifying laps carry the celebration into the night. DJs Bongomann b2b Toppings and Chucheewa are on the lineup, bringing soulful, nu-disco and electronic energy to both decks. With photobooths, giveaways, and that signature Aperol orange glow, this is golden hour reimagined, with cocktails in hand and the city at your feet.

City Nomads readers enjoy 10% off tickets with promo code APEROL10. Valid while stocks last. Tickets from S$138 via Klook.
📍4 Oct, 5.30pm–late, NOVA, Level 63, 1 Raffles Place.

CÉ LA VI: OVERDRIVE – 38 Hours of Unbridled Revelry

For F1 weekend, CÉ LA VI flips the switch on subtlety. OVERDRIVE: RACE WEEKEND is a 38-hour marathon across 4–5 October, delivering nonstop energy at the Club Lounge above Marina Bay. On Saturday, Canadian house icon Art Department headlines with his signature raw, synth-forward style, supported by French DJ duo KUNDA. Sunday sees resident heavyweights like Brendon P, Kenneth F, Leonard T, Ollie’des, and more, closing out the weekend with deep grooves and euphoric builds. With panoramic views, champagne-fueled nights, and the roar of the race just below, this is the longest and possibly loudest rooftop party in Singapore.

Tickets from S$58 at celavi.com.
📍4 Oct, 12pm – 6 Oct, 6am, CÉ LA VI, Marina Bay Sands.

GAIAVIP × Patrón × Oracle Red Bull Racing: The Official Afterparty

On 4 October, after the qualifying laps fade, GAIAVIP takes over at Capitol Theatre Kempinski with its official Patrón × Oracle Red Bull Racing afterparty. A convergence of house rhythms and A-list style. The lineup? Vidojean, Faul & Wad, and Oskar Med K lead the charge, alongside local DJs Kylie Nicole, Chichi, and Stephen Day. Expect premium pours (Patrón, Grey Goose, Bombay Sapphire), world-class mixology by Employees Only, and sound production by festival pros Xtrusion Entertainment. For those seeking full indulgence, exclusive VVIP tables are also available for groups of 6 to 25 guests. 

Tickets from S$258 at gaiavip.sg.
📍4 Oct, 7pm–late, Capitol Theatre Kempinski.

Mandala Mansion: Skyline Excess, Redefined

On race night, Mandala Mansion transforms Singapore’s most iconic rooftop into a one-night-only playground of music, indulgence, and 360° skyline views. Hosted across HighHouse and NOVA, this all-access evening blends culinary flair, champagne-fuelled hospitality, and front-row fireworks over Marina Bay. Headlining the afterparty is Jay Sean, joined by an international and regional DJ lineup including PBH, Jade Rasif, Jeremy Boon, Bangkok Invaders, and more. Free-flow pours from Don Julio, Glenfiddich, and Penrose cocktails meet plates of caviar and gourmet bites. It’s  nightlife, Mandala-style: stylish, unfiltered, and totally unforgettable.

Tickets available at mandala.club/mandala-mansion.
📍5 Oct, HighHouse & NOVA rooftop.

Amber Lounge: The Official Formula 1® Afterparty

Returning to Singapore’s Grand Prix weekend in all its champagne-soaked glory, Amber Lounge is where F1’s inner circle comes to let loose. Presented by Moët & Chandon at the stunning Clifford Pier, this year’s edition features global hitmaker Jonas Blue, R&B star Jay Sean, and YouTube-phenom-turned-DJ Vikkstar, with surprise acts guaranteed. The crowd? Expect racing royalty, celebrities, and serious nightlife connoisseurs. Add in cocktails by Penrose (Asia’s 50 Best) and a showcase of premium pours such as Don Julio 1942, Glenfiddich, Belvedere, and more, and you’re in for two unforgettable nights. If you’re after the glitz, this is it.

Individual VIP passes from S$850+, reservations via amberlounge.com.
📍4–5 Oct, 10pm–late, Clifford Pier, The Fullerton Bay Hotel. 

Race to SAMBA at SUSHISAMBA

52 floors above the city, SUSHISAMBA brings high-octane flavour and rhythm to F1 week with Race to SAMBA, a two-part celebration in the clouds. It kicks off on 3 October with an intimate post-race party inside SAMBAROOM, a lush, hidden mezzanine where DJ sets, race-themed cocktails, and panoramic views turn night into spectacle. Then, on 4 and 5 October, the energy shifts to day with Copacabana Brunch, a vibrant midday carnival of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours, complete with Samba dancers, DJs, and Champagne-fuelled flair. Whether you’re perched at the seviche bar or dancing above Marina Bay, this is where the race weekend spirit truly soars.

Tickets from S$160++ at sushisamba.com.
📍3 Oct, 10pm–late & 4–5 Oct, 12–3pm, Marina Bay Sands.

HALO: The Grand Finale at Capitol Theatre

After three sold-out nights in 2024, HALO returns for another unforgettable encore on 5 October, the ultimate post-race blowout at Capitol Theatre. With a new $3 million D&B sound and light system, this heritage venue transforms into a state-of-the-art dance arena. Headlining is house legend Dennis Ferrer, alongside genre-blending Italian producer Stephan Jolk, UK tastemaker Abana, and Singapore’s own Watch Her Bern and Aldrin. Expect pristine audio, and the kind of immersive, music-first atmosphere you’d expect from Ibiza.

Tickets from S$188 via YourTessera.
📍5 Oct, 10pm–5am, Capitol Theatre, The Capitol Kempinski.

So as the engines cool and the champagne flows, remember that the best things to do during F1 Singapore 2025 aren’t confined to the circuit. Whether you’re dancing above the skyline, recharging with a rooftop brunch, or toasting to the night with a Spritz in hand, Singapore delivers a race week like no other. Because here, the Grand Prix is just the beginning, and everything after is part of the main event.

The post Best Things to Do During F1 Singapore 2025 (Beyond the Grand Prix) appeared first on City Nomads.

Their latest EP, CODED, released under Syndicate Singapore, is a potent culmination of everything they’ve been building towards: an improvised, analog-heavy fusion of broken beat, ambient textures, and post-club melancholy. But before we get into that, let’s rewind a bit.

Jakarta as Muse

In our interview, Elfa and Kenny described Jakarta with a mixture of exasperation and affection. They cited the traffic, food, and chaos as central to the city’s identity, and inevitably, to their own. Kenny described the city as hectic, while Daniel noted how it constantly tests one’s patience.

This chaos, however, mirrors their musical ethos. Batavia Collective doesn’t use setlists or backing tracks. Their shows are built in real time, responding to the energy of the room. Elfa likened their approach to that of DJs, constantly adapting to the crowd, while playing as a fully live band. The result is unpredictable, but grounded in groove, much like the city that shaped them.

Even their name is rooted in place. “Batavia”, the colonial-era name for Jakarta, hints at the historical and cultural density that informs their sound. Every track is a timestamp of city life: frenetic, heavy, fleeting. Tracks like “Senopati Shuffle” nod to nightlife districts, while deeper cuts reference local legends and social movements.

And it’s not just the soundscape of Jakarta that bleeds into their music, it’s the spirit. The trio finds inspiration in the chaos, using the unpredictability of the city as a metaphor for their own improvisational method. And in doing so, they channel Jakarta’s chaotic spirit into something deeply rhythmic and expressive.

Three Minds, One Pulse

Elfa, Doni, and Kenny come from formal jazz training but found their chemistry in the freedom of the club. Their music, often described as experimental jazz or electronic fusion, sidesteps neat categorisation. Think Squarepusher meets Sun Ra at a basement rave in South Jakarta.

And like any close-knit group, creative friction is part of the process. “We used to argue on stage,” Kenny laughs, “like, really yell at each other mid-show. Now we use in-ear monitors so we can cue each other quietly. It changed everything.”

Touring has only strengthened that bond. From Wonderfruit to Art Basel Hong Kong, the trio has jammed with a Mexican vocalist, a Jarana player (Mexican traditional guitar), an Indian synth player and a Japanese violinist. “One time in France,” Daniel Adisumarta, their manager, recalls, “they pulled other musicians up on stage, none of it rehearsed. It was wild.”

Their influences span continents and genres. “We grew up listening to everything. Hip-hop, gospel, funk, soul, UK broken beat, Detroit techno,” says Kenny. “But jazz was our foundation. And from there, we started bending the rules.”

Live, Not Looped

What sets Batavia Collective apart from many other electronic acts is their commitment to live performance. No backing tracks. No safety nets. Just gear, guts, and groove. Each show becomes a one-off moment: beautiful, imperfect, human.

“Mistakes are part of it,” Elfa says. “Some of our best tracks started as mistakes on stage. Daniel would record the set, and later we’d build a song around a 30-second jam that wasn’t even planned.”

Their philosophy embraces spontaneity. This ethos shines in their stage presence. Explosive one moment, meditative the next. Each show is a negotiation between the musicians, the space, and the crowd.

“We usually get there early,” Kenny said, “just to feel the vibe and know what to do. We read the room, then we play.”

Decoding CODED

Which brings us to the new EP. CODED is four tracks of distilled emotion, from the heavy, heady pulse of “Rush” to the meditative unraveling of “Signs,” featuring Singaporean experimental vocalist weish.

“‘Signs’ was just a demo at first,” Kenny explains. “We didn’t plan vocals. But weish came in and transformed it. Her voice didn’t just sit on the track; it haunted it.” The result is a ghost ballad built for post-club introspection, a standout on an already exceptional release.

The band never re-recorded the track after receiving weish’s vocals. “We didn’t use a click or metronome, so we couldn’t overdub,” Kenny explained. “It just became the final version.”

The EP plays like a live set: an arc of tension, release, and return. From the bruk energy of “Rush” to the ritualistic layers in “Ring the Bells” (featuring Kamga), each track adds another facet to the narrative. “We wanted to simulate a live experience in a studio format,” Elfa noted.

Dream Collabs and Dancefloor Philosophy

So what’s next? Besides a tour across Hong Kong, Mongolia, Singapore, and France, Batavia Collective has a dream list: Thundercat, Mark Pritchard, Shabaka Hutchings. “We love the idea of expanding the trio into a collective, even just for one show,” says Elfa.

When asked what they want audiences to take away from a show, Kenny was candid: “We make sure that the audience have the feeling that they are happy or they forget about everything. That’s the whole thing.”

And when they’re not making music? Basketball is their shared off-stage obsession. “My life is just music and basketball,” Kenny said. “If I get tired of writing music, I watch NBA. Twice a week, we play.”

Introducing Indonesia’s Sonic Disruptors

For a band just three people deep, Batavia Collective is building something much bigger. A sonic language rooted in Jakarta but fluent in global rhythm. They’re not just representing Indonesian jazz on an international stage; they’re rewriting what that even means.

By rejecting both tradition and trend, Batavia Collective creates a middle space. One where Indonesian identity is expressed through electronic chaos, jazz improvisation, and a kinetic kind of soul. And if CODED is any indication, they’re only getting started.

Whether you catch them in a sweaty basement club or a sun-drenched festival stage, one thing’s for sure: Batavia Collective isn’t here to replicate the past. They’re here to remix the future.

Check out Batavia Collective’s mix for City Nomads via our Mixcloud or follow them for their latest happenings on Instagram: @batava.collective

The post Batavia Collective: Inside Jakarta’s Jazz Rebels Redefining Indonesia’s Soundscape appeared first on City Nomads.

Perched 57 floors up, with panoramic views of the Marina Bay Street Circuit glittering below, AFTER 2049 is more than a party. It’s the official closing event of TOKEN2049, the world’s largest Web3 and crypto conference, and an annual highlight for those who know how to mix business with pleasure.

A Sonic Journey Above the City

This year’s lineup is headlined by none other than Mind Against, the Italian electronic duo famed for their emotionally charged sets that span melodic techno and club-forward grooves. Fresh from releases under Afterlife and their own HABITAT imprint, their performance promises to be both cerebral and kinetic. A soundtrack to the future danced into the present.

Joining them are Ajna & Samm, the rising stars of Europe’s electronic festival circuit. Their Afro house-infused, back-to-back sets are already legendary, garnering support from the likes of &ME, Rampa, and ANOTR. Also on deck are returning favourites ANONM, Leon (FR), Milam and Mo-Shi from Hong Kong; a sonic tapestry as diverse as the city itself.

Immersive Tech Meets Music Culture

While the music alone would justify attendance, what truly sets AFTER 2049 apart is the Polygon Live 360° spatial audio setup. This isn’t your usual sound system; it’s a full-circle sensory environment that reimagines how we hear, feel, and move with music. For many attendees, it’ll be the first time experiencing audio like this: surrounding, moving, and evolving with every beat. As Polygon CEO Nico Elliott puts it, this will be “an unforgettable night above the city lights”.

The event marks the only Polygon Live production in Asia for 2025, adding even more exclusivity to an already limited-capacity affair. Ticketing is handled via Megatix. Streamlined, secure, and fast, just like the Web3-native crowd it caters to.

Where Crypto Culture Comes to Play

While AFTER 2049 stands on its own as a marquee music event, it draws energy from the larger TOKEN2049 ecosystem. A global summit where blockchain visionaries, builders, and investors gather to define the next wave of the internet. Previous attendees have praised TOKEN2049 Singapore for its dynamic community, seamless production, and thoughtful programming. The kind of atmosphere where billion-dollar ideas feel right at home. While the days are packed with panels and pitch decks, AFTER 2049 is where the real connections happen; where the community lets loose, and ideas turn into friendships.

Whether you’re flying in from Seoul, Tokyo, Bangkok, or Sydney, or just curious to experience crypto culture through a different lens. This is your invitation to join the global Web3 tribe for one unforgettable night above Singapore.

After 2049 is a limited-capacity event taking place on 3 October 2025 at the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. Tickets are moving fast, with the second release going live on 15 September, followed by the final release on 27 September. For more information, head to token2049.com or @after20249_, and secure your spot now via Megatix.

Exclusively for City Nomads readers, enjoy early bird pricing at S$149 until 12PM on 3 October 2025, just purchase through this link.

Top photo: AFTER 2049

The post AFTER2049 Singapore: TOKEN2049’s Official Closing Party During F1 Singapore 2025 appeared first on City Nomads.

Across the years (since its 2014 revival at Golden Mile Tower and later pop-ups at The Cathay, Cineleisure and Riverside Point), The Projector did the unfashionable work: platforming non‑blockbusters, LGBTQ+ stories, regional indies, restorations, and late‑night cult chaos. It became a third place as much as a theatre: a bar you could wander into alone and leave with three film recommendations and a new friend.

How did we get here?

The news landed hard because it came fast. Only weeks ago, there were announcements about returning to Golden Mile and a calendar stretching into September. Then, silence, and a final post. “Honestly very surprised… they only announced four weeks ago they were moving back to Golden Mile,” one Redditor wrote. Another added: “They even planned for shows in Sep ahead.” The timeline of the last month tells its own story of pivots and pressure, ending in an immediate curtain call.

What people remember

The tributes pouring in say more than any obituary could. “Always more than a cinema… Singapore just lost a gem,” shared @cinephilesg on Instagram. “You gave us so many awesome memories… You were a home for so many,” another longtime follower posted. People miss the specifics: cinnamon popcorn, the little monthly zines, and that pre‑roll warning against the “pocket beacon of dumfuggery” featuring the infamous “Turkish Luke Skywalker.” Others recall The Room spoon‑throwing nights, queer film spotlights, and the chance to catch a festival darling months before any awards buzz.

What this closure asks of us

The official note pointed to rising costs and shifting habits. None of that is new, but the loss clarifies the question: if we want spaces that make room for risk and nuance, how do we help them breathe? Maybe that looks like lighter‑weight pop‑ups in borrowed rooms. Maybe it’s stronger support for distributors who bring the good stuff in. Maybe it’s the unglamorous choice to buy the ticket, show up on a weeknight, and stay for the post‑film chatter.

For ten years The Projector proved there’s an appetite here. For the odd, the tender, the urgent. We didn’t always love the rock‑hard seats or the sound bleed, but we loved that it existed. If there’s a legacy worth keeping, it’s the permission it gave us: to be curious, to gather, to argue, to care. The screens are dark; the impulse they nurtured doesn’t have to be.

Top photo: Courtesy of The Projector

The post The Projector Bows Out. And What’s Next for Indie Culture in Singapore appeared first on City Nomads.

SAM Contemporaries 2: How To Dream Worlds

Running through to 16 November at Tanjong Pagar Distripark, the Singapore Art Museum invites you to drift between imagined futures and lingering uncertainties in How To Dream Worlds, the second edition of its SAM Contemporaries series. The exhibition showcases newly commissioned works by six emerging Singaporean artists including Chok Si Xuan, Chu Hao Pei, and Syahrul Anuar. Spanning installations, moving images, and immersive environments, the exhibition reframes dreaming not as escape, but as resistance, research, and reimagination. With each artist bringing a unique lens, from nasi goreng as metaphor for diplomacy to the use of wild lalang as a symbol of disruption, this exhibition is as much about process as it is about possibility.

Admission is free for Singapore Citizens and PRs, but general admission fees apply for tourists and foreign residents. For details, visit singaporeartmuseum.sg.

Titanic: An Immersive Voyage — Through the Eyes of the Passengers

Step into history like never before. Titanic: An Immersive Voyage opens 6 August, offering an emotive, tech-powered reimagining of the iconic ship’s ill-fated journey. Held at The Marina Bay Sands Expo, the exhibition fuses archival artefacts with dramatic recreations, 3D visuals, and a groundbreaking VR dive to the wreck site itself. Walk the decks, feel the tension, and encounter the human stories that defined this global tragedy. A Singapore-exclusive section reveals how the event echoed here in 1912, complete with original press clippings and city photographs from that era.

Tickets available via Fever and Marina Bay Sands. Opening hours and VR experience times vary.

Swan Lake and a new Trumpet Concerto

On 29 and 30 August, the Esplanade Concert Hall plays host to a double bill of brilliance as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra welcomes two titans of classical music. Renowned pianist-conductor Mikhail Pletnev leads a fresh, emotionally charged arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, revealing new depths in this beloved ballet score. Also featured is his own trumpet concerto, performed by Sergei Nakariakov, the “Paganini of the trumpet,” whose lyrical mastery brings Pletnev’s composition to dazzling life. Whether you’re a seasoned listener or exploring classical waters for the first time, this concert promises a stirring, cinematic evening that bridges tradition and discovery.

Tickets from $15 available at sso.org.sg. Concerts begin at 7.30pm.

Behind The Green Door presents: DA CAPO

One night only. On 8 August, Afro House sensation Da Capo storms the decks at Behind The Green Door for a kinetic night of rhythm and sonic transcendence. Known for his genre-fluid finesse and deeply soulful sets, Da Capo, fresh from global dance floors from Ibiza to New York, brings his platinum touch to Singapore alongside homegrown opener Kunda. Expect sweeping Afro rhythms, deep bass, and a musical energy that resets the dancefloor with every drop.

Doors open from 9pm to 3am. For bookings, contact +65 9100 7626 or ardini@kilo-collective.com.

CÉ LA VI Singapore: SG60 – Beyond the Skyline

On 9 August, CÉ LA VI invites you to celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday from the city’s most iconic rooftop. From 12pm to 10pm, enjoy nostalgic local eats—think satay and rainbow bread ice cream—paired with classic cocktails, live entertainment, and front-row seats to the fireworks. Family-friendly activities run all day, and kids under 11 enter free. As night falls, the celebration turns adults-only, perfect for toasting the nation with panoramic Marina Bay views.

Free-standing event. Minimum spend applies for table reservations. Book your table now.

Sentosa GrillFest 2025: Sizzle, Socialise & Feast by the Sea

It’s your last chance to catch the final weekend of Sentosa GrillFest 2025, running until 10 August along the sun-drenched shores of Siloso Beach. The beloved annual food fest has been firing up grills since July, serving up local seafood, global flavours, and buzzy beach vibes across five themed zones. This year’s edition includes Social Mixer Nights curated by Offline Singapore and new Marketplace experiences spotlighting sustainable produce. With enhanced accessibility, wheelchair-friendly seating, and more than 39 vendors, it’s the perfect excuse to gather your makan gang and make one last seaside feast count.

Admission is free. Come hungry. Full programme at sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

SG60 x Bassis10X Revelry

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On 8 August, electronic collective Bassis takes over Headquarters for a raucous National Day eve bash. Marking 10 years of bass-heavy exploration, the Singapore-based label delivers a two-floor takeover featuring Bronx footwork trailblazer KUSH JONES (USA) and Korean selector CLOSET YI, who makes her Singapore debut after turning heads across Asia. Expect genre-bending DJ sets, cross-cultural collisions, and the kind of sweaty, underground energy that HQ does best. Bonus: Bongomann and Toppings kick things off upstairs with eclectic heat.

Doors open late. For event updates, follow Bassis on Instagram.

SG60 Beats & Bites

Celebrate National Day in the heart of the city with SG60 Beats & Bites, a two-day food and music festival at Capitol Singapore Outdoor Plaza on 8 and 9 August. The festival features a stellar line-up of home-grown music acts including Adia, Shanice, Trisno, Dansen John, and more. On 9 August, catch the live screening of the National Day Parade followed by a fireworks display to close the evening.

Fuel your festivity with tasty street snacks, craft beers, and mocktails, and sing along to beloved National Day tunes as the city comes alive with SG60 spirit.

Admission is free. Food and drinks sold separately.

Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party by SRT

The Singapore Repertory Theatre turns up the heat with Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party. Running from 12 August to 14 September, this immersive musical dinner dishes out family drama, four fiery courses, and beloved Dick Lee hits like “Bunga Sayang” and “Mustapha”. Follow Bee Lean, a matriarch chef ready to retire, and her daughters as they clash over who will inherit the wok, and the legacy. Equal parts theatre, dinner, and karaoke-singalong, it’s a night that stirs the senses and tickles the appetite.

Tickets via SRT. Limited dates; advance booking highly recommended.

The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale

The epic fantasy saga comes to life in a spectacular new staging as The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale makes its Asia premiere at Marina Bay Sands, running from 12 August to 31 August. Featuring Hobbits, Elves, and the sweeping landscapes of Middle-earth, the musical blends Tolkien’s classic with world-class theatrics and a lush live score. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or stepping into the Shire for the first time, this show promises a journey of heart, heroism, and adventure.

Tickets available via SISTIC, Klook, and Marina Bay Sands.

Brewnanza Fest 2025 by Brewlander

From 29 to 31 August, Singapore’s biggest beer bash returns to Marina Bay Sands Expo Hall C. Brewnanza Fest 2025 by Brewlander brings over 100 craft brews, with headline names like Side Project, Verdant, and Fremont Brewing pouring exclusive collabs and first-time Southeast Asia releases. Expect indie bands, sizzling eats from Meow BBQ and Papi’s Tacos, and DJs spinning late into the night. New this year: a global Brewers Association showcase and an all-new 2025 Festival Brew.

For more information, visit brewlander.com. Tickets via Klook. Early bird pricing ends 31 July.

The Outdoor Fair 2025

From 30 to 31 August, The Outdoor Fair returns to *SCAPE Orchard, transforming the space into a gear-lovers’ paradise with 40+ vendors and over 55 outdoor brands including Snow Peak, Fjällräven, and Patagonia. Expect hands-on gear demos, music, expert panels, and exclusive deals across camping, hiking, and trail lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or outdoor-curious urbanite, it’s the perfect way to connect with Singapore’s growing outdoor community.

Free entry. Details at outdoorfair.sg.

Got an event in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong or Bali, you’d love to share with our readers? We’re always on the lookout for compelling happenings to feature in our curated roundups. Whether it’s an avant-garde art exhibition, a gourmet dining experience, or a music festival pushing the boundaries of sound, we want to hear about it. Submit your event details to share them with our community today!

Top photo: Bna Ignacio via Unsplash

The post Best Things To Do in Singapore this August 2025 appeared first on City Nomads.