Istana Open House Chinese New Year 2024: Food Trucks, Performances and Guided Tours

Every year the Istana opens to the public during Chinese New Year and if you get a chance to visit – it is worth a look around! Read more about what to expect at the Istana Open House here.

The CNY Istana Open House 2024 will be held on Monday 12 February 2024 and entry is free for Singaporeans and PRs.

According to the Straits Times, activities available to visitors will include Chinese calligraphy and candle making. There will also be musical performances and multicultural dances. Visitors can go on guided tours of the Istana’s main building to view selected function rooms and take a closer look at a selection of state gifts presented to Singapore’s leaders. National Parks Board volunteers will also give tours of the Istana’s flora and fauna.

Both guided tours cost up to $4 for Singaporeans and permanent residents, and up to $20 for all other visitors, depending on their age.

Food stalls and a food truck, as well as merchandise booths selling limited-edition Istana souvenirs and President’s Challenge souvenirs, will also be at the open house.

All proceeds from entry fees to the Istana grounds, tours and the President’s Challenge merchandise booth will go towards charities supported by the President’s Challenge.

Admission to Istana Open House 2024

• Entry to the Istana grounds is free for Singaporeans and permanent residents.
• All other visitors will need to pay an entrance fee of $20 per adult and $10 per child aged between four and 12.
• Only cashless payments will be accepted.
• There are also fees applicable for entry to the Istana Main Building, the Guided Tour and Nature Guided Tour.

Read more about what to expect at the Istana Open House here.

General Istana Open House Info

The Istana is typically open to the public on five days during the year – during Chinese New Year, Labour Day, Hari Raya Puasa, National Day and Deepavali. Visitors can look forward to special performances, tour selected rooms in the Main Building or go on guided nature walks on the grounds.

The Istana stands on what used to be Charles Robert Prinsep’s nutmeg plantation, so it is a wonderfully landscaped green garden with a variety of flora and fauna. The Istana residence as well as the green garden and grounds is partially open to the public on Istana Open Days and we recommend keeping note of when you can visit to get a chance to peek into this beautiful slice of Singapore heritage.