News | Art & Culture

Keong Saik Carnival brings music, fashion and food to Singapore

Party in the heart of the Lion City’s Chinatown.

Keong Saik Road, located at the heart of Singapore’s Chinatown, was formerly known as a notorious red light district in the 1960s, but from the 90s onwards it has grown to be one of the hippest, liveliest neighbourhoods in the city. The brothels might have given way to stylish coffee shops, art galleries, boutique hotels and shops, but the area’s signature three-storey shophouses and Art Deco architecture remain, granting the area its own distinct vibe.

This Saturday, bar and restaurant Potato Head Folk – located at 36 Keong Saik Road – will be taking the street over from noon to 10:30pm with , a bazaar of live music, heritage tours, and – of course – lots of food and drink.

The festival’s inaugural edition will feature live performances by some of China’s up-and-coming underground musicians and producers, from Beijing electronic artist Howie Lee to Shanghai vocalist Cha Cha and dubstep maverick Drunk Monk, as well as local talents such as female DJ collective ATTAGIRL!. Market stalls will be offering up homeware, designer goods, and magazines; don’t forget to pick up a limited edition fashion item from illustrator Fegadelic and gourmet burger brand Three Buns, who have teamed up for a one-off capsule collection. Also visit pop-up record store #vinyloftheday and check out the many art installations and even a carousel for the little ones or those of us who are young at heart.