Join Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH) For Its Fun-Filled Wan Qing Closing Fest

SYSNMH invites all to immerse in Singapore Chinese culture and heritage with its Wan Qing Closing Fest as a “final” hurrah before its temporary closure.

Venue: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH)
Date: 20 Aug – 15 Sep 2024
Gallery Hours:

• Sun to Fri: 10am – 5pm (Last admission at 4.30pm)
• 24 Aug, 31 Aug, 7 Sep, 14 Sep & 15 Sep 2024: Extended gallery hours (Last admission at 8.30pm)
• Closed on Mon

Lawn Hours: 10am – 9pm, Daily
Fee: Free Admission for All with Ticketed Activities

Wan Qing Closing Fest

The storied grounds of the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH) is set to close from 16 September 2024 till 2027 as the National Monument will be undergoing restoration works – more than a decade since its last major redevelopment in 2011. As a “final” hurrah before the temporary closure, SYSNMH invites all to immerse in Singapore Chinese culture and heritage with Wan Qing Closing Fest, which includes the Memorial Hall’s signature Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival.

SYSNMH, also known as Wan Qing Yuan, is a historic site that has played key roles since its construction in 1902, including serving as the residence and base for Chinese revolutionary Sun Yat Sen. It hosted significant events like three uprisings that contributed to the establishment of the Chinese republic in 1912. Now a cultural destination famous for festivals, SYSNMH was declared a National Monument in 1994 and reopened as a heritage institution in 2011. During its closure, the site will undergo restoration and gallery revamps to preserve its legacy and enhance visitor experience.

Event Highlights

SYSNMH invites all to visit the Memorial Hall before its temporary closure with its Wan Qing Closing Fest spotlighting Singapore Chinese culture and traditions through an array of performances, activities, workshops, tours, and more!

Moonlit Legends – Lawn Installation

Date: 20 Aug – 15 Sep 2024
Time: 10am – 9pm, Daily
Fee: Free Admission

Comprising captivating larger-than-life traditional lanterns of our favourite Mid-Autumn characters, step into a celestial wonderland at Wan Qing Yuan with the Memorial Hall’s 10th Mid-Autumn outdoor installation titled Moonlit Legends. Inspired by the enchanting tales of Wu Gang – the immortal woodcutter, the charming jade rabbits, and the elegant Chang’e, the Memorial Hall becomes the majestic backdrop of the Moon Palace in this outdoor installation. A harmonious blend of tradition and imagination, Moonlit Legends hopes to create a sense of wonder and nostalgia for everyone this Mid-Autumn reunion.

The installation will be on display outdoors at the Memorial Hall from 20 August to 15 September 2024, daily from 10am to 9pm.

Secrets in the Moon Palace – Mystery Puzzle Adventure

Date: 7 – 8 Sep & 14 – 15 Sep 2024
Time: 10am – 11.30am (7 & 8 Sep only), 1pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 4.30pm, 5pm – 6.30pm (except 8 Sep), 7pm – 8.30pm (except 8 Sep)
Fee: $10 per pax, group of 4 - 5 pax recommended; purchase tickets via Peatix

Amidst the bustling preparations for the Mid-Autumn Festival, an unexpected tragedy strikes – the revered Chang’e and her Royal Entourage have mysteriously vanished without a trace. As the entrusted Head of Security, you bear the immense responsibility of ensuring Chang’e’s safe return while also ensuring the seamless continuation of the grand festival. With the weight of the festival’s success resting on your shoulders, enter the halls of the Moon Palace and embark on a journey veiled in mystery and unravel cryptic clues to save the day!

Suitable for participants aged 10 years and above. The game is conducted in English.

Timeless Elegance – Hanfu Portrait Photography (Supported by Murong Hanfu & @3wheelingtots)

Date: 7 & 8 Sep 2024
Time: 10am – 9pm (Sat), 10am – 5pm (Sun), at 30 mins interval
Fee: $40 for group of 1 – 2 pax, $60 for group of 3 – 4 pax, additional child at $20
per pax; purchase tickets via Peatix

Have your portraits taken against the historical backdrop of the Memorial Hall, dressed in the graceful hanfu, the iconic Chinese traditional wear. Choose from a curated collection of outfits and accessories and create lasting memories with your friends and family. Capture these cherished moments, reflecting the joy of your time together at the grand Memorial Hall with our photographers.

Moonlit Memories Presented by The Solitude Movement)

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 7.45pm – 8.15pm
Fee: Free Admission

In a universe where mythical beings maintain the balance between realms, the moon goddess Chang’e and the immortal woodcutter Wu Gang are stationed at various Moon Palace branches on Earth. Currently assigned to Singapore, their peaceful tenure is abruptly cut short due to unexpected renovations. As they prepare to leave, they discover an enigmatic treasure box. Rumours speak of a lost box containing a powerful artefact, said to grant its finder the ability to solve any problem in the world. Intrigued, Chang’e and Wu Gang wonder if this could be the legendary magical treasure. Join us in this captivating performance as Chang’e and Wu Gang embark on a quest to uncover the secrets of the treasure box.

The performance is conducted in Mandarin.

Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 9pm
Fee: Free admission with ticketed activities

Step into a celestial wonderland as Wan Qing Yuan transforms into the tranquil Moon Palace, opening its doors one “last” time this Mid-Autumn Festival before its restoration! Join forces with legendary Mid-Autumn characters like Chang’e, Wu Gang, and the Jade Rabbit and participate in our fun and thematic cultural workshops and activities as you learn more about the traditions and customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Be thoroughly entertained by outdoor performances at night, including an original skit inspired by the Memorial Hall and a melodious choir performance, and be dazzled by the eye-catching LED lion and dragon dances that will close the festival (and the Memorial Hall) on a high note!

Workshops

Parent-Child Chinese Mythology Wooden Stick Figure Painting Workshop (Supported by a2+rt Studio)

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 2.30pm
Fee: $24 per pair; purchase tickets via Peatix 

Countless wood pieces, chopped down by Wu Gang, lie scattered around the Moon Palace! Join our Chinese Mythology Wooden Stick Figure Painting Workshop and transform these pieces into vibrant wooden stick figures! Under the guidance of Andy from a2+rt Studio, each parent-child pair participant will have the opportunity to paint up to two Chinese legendary characters, learning techniques required for intricate painting as they create something fun and beautiful this Mid-Autumn Festival.

Recommended for participants at least aged 6 years and above. The workshop is
conducted in English.

Parent-Child Snowskin Mooncake Making Workshop

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 3.30pm – 4.30pm
Fee: $38 per pair; purchase tickets via Peatix 

Join us for a delightful Parent-Child Snowskin Mooncake Making Workshop, inspired by the legendary Jade Rabbit, who is always seen pounding away with a mortar and pestle. In this hands-on session, we'll use the finest ingredients the Jade Rabbit has been meticulously preparing to craft delicious and beautiful snowskin mooncakes. Participants will bring home the snowskin mooncakes that they have made to enjoy at home.

Recommended for participants aged 6 years and above. The workshop is conducted in English.

Tuanshan Hand Fan Making Workshop

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Fee: $22 per pax, $40 per pair; purchase tickets via Peatix

Embrace the elegance, grace, and beauty of Chang’e at our Tuanshan Hand Fan Making Workshop. This fun craft session invites participants to create their own traditional round fans that light up at night, inspired by the timeless allure of Chang’e.

Recommended for participants aged 10 years and above. The workshop is conducted in English.

The Elixir of “Ondeh-viduality” Parent-Child Storytelling and Ondeh Ondeh Making Workshop (Supported by Brookie Kids and The Little Things)

Date: 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 2.30pm
Fee: $48 per pair; purchase tickets via Peatix

Tasked by the Jade Emperor to create an elixir that helps children build their personal confidence, the Jade Rabbit descended to Earth in search of inspiration for the perfect formula. It chanced upon a “skit” performed by Olive and her friends, depicting Little Ondeh Ondeh’s journey in building self-confidence. Inspired by this tale, the Jade Rabbit decided to transform Ondeh Ondeh into “Elixirs of Confidence”. In this fun, sensory-exploration filled workshop that blends the origin stories of Mid-Autumn with local heritage, children will join an immersive storytelling experience following the Jade Rabbit’s journey as it meets Olive and her friends. They'll also get hands-on with cooking in the ‘kitchen’ of the Wan Qing Moon Palace, helping the Jade Rabbit create these special Ondeh Ondeh treats.

Recommended for children aged 4 – 10 years old only. The workshop is conducted in Mandarin.

Paper Making Experience Workshop (Supported by Malik Mazlan)

Date: 15 Sep 2024
Time: 3.30pm – 5pm, 5.30pm – 7pm
Fee: $30 per pax; purchase tickets via Peatix

Come experience the ancient art of paper making, a craft invented by the ancient Chinese in our Paper Making Experience Workshop. Under the guidance of Malik, a Singaporean Malay calligrapher, explore traditional techniques including pulping, moulding, and pressing of paper making as you create your own beautiful handmade papers. Participants are encouraged to bring your own recycled papers and old newspapers for the workshop.

Recommended for participants aged 12 years and above. Workshop will be conducted in English.

Free Activities

Storytelling Sessions: Tales of Mid-Autumn Festival (Supported by Speak Good English Movement and Speak Mandarin Campaign)

Date: 14 Sep 2024 (Mandarin), 15 Sep 2024 (English)
Time: 2pm – 3pm, 4.30pm – 5.30pm
Fee: Free Admission

Be swept away by enthralling tales in our popular storytelling sessions! Discover the legends and myths behind well-loved Chinese festivals as local authors and veteran storytellers bring you on a literary adventure.

Drop-in Craft Station: Lantern Decorating

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission

With over 2,000 years of history and rich significance in Chinese festivities, lanterns were used to illuminate celebrations and signify new beginnings. Decorate your own glowing lanterns at our craft station and enjoy a magical night-time stroll this Mid-Autumn Festival.

Drop-in Craft Station: Silkscreen Bookmark Printing

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission

Experience the ancient Chinese art and craftsmanship of silkscreen printing at our drop-in craft station and create your very own bookmark that captures the essence of the Mid-Autumn season.

Drop-in Activity Station: Mid-Autumn Mini Games

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission

Explore the rich traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival at our mini game booths! Engage in interactive games that educate and entertain, offering insights into the festival's history and customs.

Drop-in Activity Station: Inflatable Archery

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission

Channel the heroic spirit of Hou Yi, the legendary archer who is celebrated for shooting down nine out of the ten suns to save the Earth and try your hand at archery with our inflatable archery station.

Live on the Lawn: Mid-Autumn Festival Family Fun Contest

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Fee: Free Admission

Gather your family for a Mid-Autumn Festival Family Fun Contest on stage! Engage in friendly rivalry as you join other families in a series of exciting Mid-Autumn Festival themed games. It’s a session of bonding and fun! Limited spots available, register your interest on the day to reserve your spot.

Live on the Lawn: Lantern Riddles Guessing (Supported by Riddle Association (Singapore))

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Fee: Free Admission

Learn tips for solving Chinese lantern riddles with Riddle Masters this Mid-Autumn Festival. Join the Riddle Association (Singapore) as they conduct a traditional riddle solving session at the Memorial Hall lawn. Get your hands on the Memorial Hall’s merchandise with each correct answer. In addition, more Chinese lantern riddles will be up at the Memorial Hall’s veranda for you to solve from 7 Sep 2024 onwards.

Live on the Lawn: Mid-Autumn Celebration by Maple Bear (Supported by Maple Bear International Preschool (Sunset Way))

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 4.30pm – 5pm
Fee: Free Admission

Join us for a vibrant performance presented by the dedicated educators of Maple Bear International Preschool! Witness the captivating array of performances, from graceful dance acts of the fan and umbrella dance, to engaging storytelling of the tale of Chang’e and a delightful combination of song and dance that promises to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages.

Live on the Lawn: LED Lion Dance Performance (Supported by Teng Yong Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe)

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 7.15pm – 7.35pm
Fee: Free Admission

Experience the electrifying LED Lion Dance, where brilliant lights and dynamic choreography bring this traditional dance to life in a whole new way. Prepare to be captivated by a stunning fusion of culture and technology that will dazzle audiences of all ages.

Live on the Lawn: Bubble Stage Show by CJ Bubble Girl (Supported by CJ Bubble Girl)

Date: 14 Sep 2024
Time: 8.15pm – 8.45pm
Fee: Free Admission

Experience the magic of CJ Bubble Girl at the Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival, where her enchanting bubble performances will mesmerise and delight. Join us for a captivating show of shimmering bubbles and whimsical artistry under the moonlight!

Live on the Lawn: Parent-Child Choir Performance by The Joyful Voice (Supported by The Joyful Voices)

Date: 15 Sep 2024
Time: 7.15pm – 7.45pm
Fee: Free Admission

Join us for an enchanting choir performance under the moonlight with The Joyful Voice, an independent community choir comprising singers from different families coming together to share their passion for music.

Live on the Lawn: LED Dragon Dance Performance (Supported by Teng Yong Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe)

Date: 15 Sep 2024
Time: 8.15pm – 8.45pm
Fee: Free Admission

Witness the spectacular LED Dragon Dance, where radiant lights and fluid movements bring this mythical creature to life. Immerse yourself in a mesmerising display of tradition and innovation that will end the festival on a high note!

Mooncake, Pomelo & Tea Tasting

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission, limited quantities available

Savour a taste of tradition and sample yummy Mid-Autumn delicacies such as mooncakes, pomelos and freshly brewed aromatic Chinese tea. Enjoy these festive delicacies as you learn more about the Mid-Autumn Festival!

Yummy Snacks Pop-up Booth by Yue @ Aloft

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm

Indulge in savoury bites such as Nacho Chips and Popcorn Chicken paired with a variety of delicious sauces or beat the heat with a variety of beverages available for purchase at the pop-up booth by Yue @ Aloft. Enjoy a tasty treat and a complimentary Potong Ice Cream with every snack purchase.

Hanfu Rental Booth by Murong Hanfu

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm

Discover the charm of tradition at the Murong Hanfu rental booth, where you can rent stunning hanfu costumes to wear and capture beautiful memories in these elegant garments on the picturesque grounds of the Memorial Hall. For those looking to bring a piece of this experience home, Murong Hanfu also offers a selection of hanfu for purchase, allowing you to own a lasting keepsake from the event.

Festival Instant Photo Booth

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 1pm – 7pm
Fee: Free Admission

Visit our instant photo booth at Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival and capture your special moments with free printed photos! Strike a pose and take quality prints home to remember your day at the Memorial Hall, all at no cost!

Let’s Celebrate with Uncle Ting: Mid-Autumn Festival – Activity Booklet Giveaway

Date: 14 & 15 Sep 2024
Time: 10am – 9pm
Fee: Free Admission, limited quantities available

Kids, pick up a free activity booklet to discover more about the Mid-Autumn Festival! Join Uncle Ting to learn more about the legend of Chang’e and popular customs associated with this festival through a series of fun activities including lantern making! Activity booklets are given out one per child on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.

Guided Tours

Permanent Galleries Guided Tour

Date: 20 Aug – 15 Sep 2024
Time: Various timings
Fee: Free Admission; limited spaces available

Join us for a guided tour of the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and hear the stories behind this century-old villa that trace Dr Sun Yat Sen’s revolutionary activities in Southeast Asia. Gain valuable insights on the impact of the 1911 Revolution on Singapore. Join us in our additional Permanent Galleries Guided Tour sessions for the months of August and September 2024, brought to you by our Heritage Volunteers.

• Additional English Guided Tours Sessions (on top of Tue to Fri, 2pm and Sat & Sun, 3pm)
• 23 Aug, 30 Aug, 6 Sep & 13 Sep 2024, 11am
• 7 Sep, 14 Sep & 15 Sep 2024, 5.30pm
• Additional Mandarin Guided Tour Sessions (on top of Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun, 2.30pm)
• 7 Sep, 14 Sep & 15 Sep 2024, 6.30pm

Travelling Exhibition

Mid-Autumn Festival: A Taste of Reunion – Travelling Exhibition

Photo Credits: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall

Venue: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Date: 20 Aug – 8 Sep 2024
Time:

• Sun to Fri: 10am – 5pm (Last admission at 4.30pm)
• Sat: Extended gallery hours (Last admission at 8.30pm)
• Closed on Mon

Fee: Free Admission

Mid-Autumn Festival: A Taste of Reunion highlights the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival and its cultural significance on family reunion and kinship love, featuring information about the mooncake moulds and artisanal mooncake makers of Singapore in this travelling exhibition. Visitors can also pick up props available at the exhibition and snap some fun shots in the gallery.

The travelling exhibition will also travel to Our Tampines Hub from 9 – 22 Sep 2024 and to Library@Chinatown from 23 Sep – 20 Oct 2024.

Other Perks

20% Off Memorial Hall Merchandise

Venue: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Date: 20 Aug – 15 Sep 2024
Time: 10am – 5pm

Bring home a piece of the Memorial Hall today! Enjoy 20% discount on all Memorial Hall memorabilia which includes household items, stationery, publications and more.

Dining Discounts at Balestier (Supported by HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier)

Venue: HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier Clubhouse
Date: 1 – 15 Sep* 2024
Time: Respective F&B outlets operating hours

Enjoy dining discounts from various restaurants and eateries located at the HomeTeamNS-Jom Balestier Clubhouse for the month of September 2024! Dining discounts are available to visitors of the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH) with a valid SYSNMH admission sticker* presented to participating merchants.

• 15% off Indulge Teppanyaki & Grill House
• 15% off LK Thai Bistro & Café
• 10% off Cheese Story Mookata Buffet

Discount is valid for dine-in only for the month of September 2024.

*SYSNMH’s last day of operation before its temporary closure is 15 Sep 2024. Visitors can redeem the dining perks after 15 Sep 2024 when you keep the admission sticker from your visit on or before 15 Sep 2024.

For more information about Wan Qing Closing Fest, please visit Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s website and Facebook page or follow the Memorial Hall on Instagram.