The Gemilang Kampong Gelam (GKG) 2025 returns for its fifth edition, transforming Kampong Gelam into a vibrant Ramadan festival from 19 February to 25 March 2025. Organised by One Kampong Gelam (OKG) with support from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), this celebration showcases the rich cultural legacy of one of Singapore’s oldest urban districts during the holy month of Ramadan.
Following its record-breaking success in 2024, which saw 1.1 million visitors—almost twice the turnout of 2023—this year’s festival focuses on three key pillars: heritage, community, and sustainability. Over 35 days, visitors can explore a variety of food options, witness stunning light displays at Sultan Mosque, take part in hands-on workshops, and enjoy a mix of traditional and contemporary performances.
In honor of SG60 and Kampong Gelam’s rich cultural history, GKG 2025 introduces several new activities, including the Kampong Gelam Tour, Mystery Treasure Hunt, and Stamp Rally. The annual Iftar Perdana also returns, bringing 1,000 people together for a community breaking of fast along Arab Street.
Mr. Zaki Ma’arof, Chairman of One Kampong Gelam (OKG), shared, “Gemilang Kampong Gelam is more than just a celebration—it is a reflection of our shared heritage that unites different cultures and faiths in appreciation of history and tradition. This year, we celebrate our past while looking ahead to a brighter future. We welcome all Singaporeans and visitors to be part of this extraordinary event.”
Kampong Charity Run 2025: Promoting Awareness and Healthy Living
On 15 February (Saturday), the Kampong Gelam community kicked off the GKG 2025 celebrations with the Kampong Charity Run 2025, a meaningful event aimed at fostering awareness and wellness! The run took place from 6 AM to 10 AM in collaboration with Big Boyz Run Club.
This inaugural initiative focused on promoting a drug-free lifestyle while encouraging participants to adopt healthier habits—especially in preparation for Ramadan. The event featured information booths by Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and inspiring sharing sessions by Drug Free SG volunteers, including former addicts who recounted their journeys to recovery.
Guest of Honor, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, officially launched the event as part of his ongoing commitment to a drug-free Singapore.
The 2.5km run attracted 200 participants, with all proceeds going towards beneficiaries at the Kampong Glam Community Center.
A Month-Long Celebration of Culture and Togetherness
Official Opening of Gemilang Kampong Gelam 2025
The festival was officially launched on 21 February (Friday) by Assoc. Prof. Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim and Ms. Denise Phua, Member of Parliament for Jalan Besar GRC.
Food & Retail Bazaar
The GKG 2025 bazaar brought 80 food and beverage vendors and retail brands to the heart of Kampong Gelam.
Food highlights included signature dishes from House of Lemang, Picanhas, and Satay Ummi, which have been crowd favorites since 2021. Visitors also got to enjoy gourmet bites like Smashed Burger’s artisanal burgers, Al Papi’s fusion tacos, and Flamboyant Goon’s specialty croissants. Desserts such as Kunafa from ALAA and Turkish ice cream from Turkuaz were also major hits!
Fashion and retail lovers explored brands such as Baju Fifty-Eight, Deanqaisara, and Pretty Sugar, offering stylish yet traditional pieces.
Interactive Cultural Workshops
Throughout the bazaar, four immersive workshops are being held:
Arabic Calligraphy by Erwan Bar – Every Thursday & Friday
Batik Art by Hanisa M – 12 PM-2 PM & 4 PM-6 PM (Thurs & Fri)
Seni Sini: Interactive Art Sessions – Showcasing Dikir Barat, paper tanjak making, and more
Coffee Revive Workshop – Every Saturday, turning coffee waste into exfoliating soap
(Workshops cost $20 per session, except Seni Sini, which is free.)
Sultan Mosque Light Projection
A festival icon returns with a 5.1 Surround Sound experience featuring music specially composed by Sha’aban Yahya. The light show will showcase symbolic Ramadan imagery, such as date palms, olive branches, and ketupat, representing community and tradition.
⏰ Every Friday – Sunday, 7:40 PM – 9 PM (in 15-minute intervals, except during prayer times).
Cultural Performances
Enjoy the Joget Parade every Saturday, featuring traditional Malay dances, Pencak Silat, and Kompang performances. Meet popular celebrities such as Hannah Delisha, Mimifly, and Beto Kusyairi, or join the Kaki Nyanyi singing contest on weekdays.
New Activities for 2025
Kampong Tour: A guided heritage walk with a $15 bazaar voucher for participants.
Kampong Hunt: A treasure hunt where participants search for hidden coins in five locations to win up to $8,000 in cash prizes.
Stamp Rally: Collect stamps from key spots to receive an exclusive postcard set.
Iftar Perdana
📅 22 March (Saturday), 6:30 PM
A grand communal iftar with 1,000 attendees will take place along Arab Street, fostering unity and generosity during Ramadan.
Sustainability at GKG 2025
This year, the festival introduces solar-powered battery generators from Gorental.SG, drink discounts for visitors who bring their own bottles, and eco-friendly packaging used by nearly half of the F&B vendors.
📍 Operating Hours (19 February – 25 March):
🕑 2 PM – 11 PM (Mon – Thurs), until 11:30 PM (Fri – Sun)
Join us at Gemilang Kampong Gelam 2025 for a Ramadan filled with culture, tradition, and togetherness! 🌙✨
