Kampong Gelam springs to life during the months leading up to Hari Raya Aidilfitri. As Singapore’s cultural heart for the Malay community, it transforms into a festive magnet for those preparing for the holy month of Ramadan and the joyous Hari Raya celebration. Whether you’re hunting for traditional outfits, seasonal snacks, or meaningful decorations, this historic district offers a complete seasonal experience.
Gemilang Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar: The Festive Epicenter
The spotlight during Ramadan shines on the Gemilang Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar. Running from mid-February through late March, this vibrant bazaar lines Baghdad Street, Kandahar Street, and Muscat Street. More than 100 stalls fill the area with a mix of smells, colors, and sounds, creating a nightly event that draws locals and tourists alike.
Operating Hours:
Daily from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Nearest MRT:
Bugis Station
The weekends amplify the energy, thanks to live performances and a Sultan Mosque light show that turns the area into an open-air celebration.
What to Eat: From Street Classics to Bold Twists
The bazaar features over 80 F&B vendors that bring together nostalgia and trend in a single stretch.
Traditional Must-Haves:
- Satay grilled over open flames
- Lemang packed with smoky flavor
- Roti kirai served with curry
- Nasi ambeng from Dapur Ambeng, known for its communal-style serving
Modern Experiments:
- Cheesesteaks and fries by MeatMyMeat
- Tacos crafted by La Birria Tacos
- Croissant-based street food from Croissant Tarik
Desserts and Drinks:
- Golden kunafa from Dubai Kunafa
- A rainbow of flavored drinks served icy and sweet
The combination of old and new ensures every palate finds its match.
What to Buy: Clothes, Cookies, and Cultural Flair
The shopping experience isn’t limited to food. The bazaar features rows of retail stalls offering festive wares.
Clothing Highlights:
- Baju kurung in bold prints and pastel tones
- Baju melayu with tailored cuts for men and boys
- Family sets in coordinated designs
Snacks and Goodies:
- Alyummyni Bakes selling cookies packed in Hari Raya-ready packaging
- Assorted kuih trays prepared by small vendors, often home-based
Home and Decor:
- Festive lights
- Wall hangings in Islamic motifs
- Accessories to complement traditional outfits
Beyond the Bazaar: Permanent Shops That Shine
Kampong Gelam’s charm continues outside the bazaar grounds. Streets like Arab Street, Bussorah Street, and Haji Lane hold a collection of boutiques, fabric stores, and heritage retailers offering everything needed for the season.
Arab Street: Fabric Heaven
This street is a magnet for those sewing their own outfits or seeking high-end tailoring.
What to Expect:
- Rolls of silk, songket, lace, and cotton stacked from floor to ceiling
- In-house tailoring services that turn fabric into finished attire
- Wedding-ready selections and rare material blends
Bussorah Street and Haji Lane: Fashion Meets Festivity
For those looking for ready-made options or contemporary designs, this duo delivers.
Boutiques Worth Visiting:
- Katt & Co for modern interpretations of traditional wear
- Alia Anggun for stylish baju kurung with clean lines and bold patterns
Accessories, hijabs, and footwear are also easily found in these lanes, often designed by local creators.
Toko Aljunied: A Staple in the Textile Scene
Operating for generations, Toko Aljunied carries classic batik, kebaya pieces, and rare textile finds. It’s a go-to for quality fabrics and authentic craftsmanship.
Where to Find Sweets and Treats
Beyond the bazaar, Kampong Gelam houses bakeries and shops that prepare for Hari Raya with special menus and gift sets.
All Things Delicious
This halal-certified café on Arab Street is known for its:
- Buttery scones and festive cakes
- Hari Raya cookies packaged for gifting
- Seasonal gift boxes filled with assorted delights
Traditional Kuih Sellers
Scattered across the district are family-run shops offering handmade kuih in all varieties:
- Kuih lapis
- Ondeh-ondeh
- Kuih makmur
These sweets often sell out early, so shoppers tend to place pre-orders weeks in advance.
Decorations That Set the Mood
Though many now shop online for decor, Kampong Gelam still carries physical options that bring Hari Raya spirit into the home.
Available Items:
- Hanging crescent moons and stars
- Banners with Arabic calligraphy
- Handcrafted ornaments and tableware
The Malay Heritage Centre’s gift shop also stocks meaningful craft items and heritage-inspired gifts that make great conversation starters.
Experiencing Kampong Gelam’s Festive Atmosphere
Beyond what you can buy or eat, the mood of Kampong Gelam during Ramadan is what draws people back year after year.
What Makes It Special:
- Sultan Mosque serves as a spiritual and visual centerpiece
- Streets glow with lights and bustling sounds of evening trade
- Families gather for mass iftar on Arab Street
- Live music and storytelling bring cultural depth to the setting
It’s not just a shopping trip; it’s a shared cultural experience that brings people closer—whether they’re breaking fast under open skies or selecting outfits as a family.
Kampong Gelam, during Ramadan and Hari Raya, becomes more than a destination. It becomes a place of renewal, joy, and tradition through every food stall, fabric roll, and string of lights. The sights, sounds, and smells echo with meaning for those preparing to celebrate—and for those who simply want to be part of something heartfelt and true.
