We know it’s been cold lately, but it’s only making it feel like it’s not quite cold enough. As I tap through the Instastories of friends indulging in Christmas markets overseas, it’s only made me long for a white Christmas even more. Asia’s largest touring pop-up winter playground, Ice Magic: Winter Wonderland is back in Singapore for another edition – and hopes to fulfil some of those wintery wishes.
This year, it’s returned with 30% more space than before – now spanning a whopping 3,000 square metres that includes several exciting rides from 9 December 2023 to 21 January 2024. I know it’s easy to dismiss fake snow experiences, but trust me when I say this winter playground was frosty and fantastical as it could be. We crunched and slipped through the snow, and felt the chill hit us even after just 30 minutes inside, making it pretty easy to forget we were in sunny Singapore.
Take a spin on one of these colourful dolphins across the ice rink.
Bigger is better when it comes to playing in snow. Stepping in, we were greeted on the right by the 300 square metres Ice Rink, where guests of all ages (yes, your inner child is included) are welcome to horse around on their colourful dolphin seats.
Towards the back, you’re given an option of two exciting rides, the Double-Lane Couple Ice Slide or the 6.5 metre-high Snow Slope. The slide is a simple yet exhilarating experience, where you and your partner are both launched side-by-side down an icy track that will have you shrieking in glee. Little ones are not left out, and they’ll have a great time on the five-lane Mini Ice Slide too.
Grab a snow tube before heading up the Snow Slope.
For some added thrill, be sure to pick up your float before heading up the snow slope. You can glide down alone or pick a buddy float, and hang on for dear life together as you twirl down its 98 metres of magical fun.
Eye catching ice displays complete the Winter Wonderland
The atmosphere is made special with actual igloos you can crawl into for the ultimate arctic experience. Tall powdery snow trees are the perfect backdrop for festive shots you want to capture, or you can also catch the glacial art display featuring coloured ice and even a sculpted ice Merlion.
When you’re done with the snow and ready to regain some warmth, head out to the Winter Food Village, where different vendors have gathered to showcase their Christmas-themed delights. Savour some Swiss Rosti by Wado and pair it with some Wintry Spiced Wine to complete the experience. Some booths also offer shaved milk ice desserts, or if you want some spice to heat your bellies up, I also spotted my personal favourites – Mala Tang and savoury Korean tteobokki to soothe the soul. The Food Village is also open to the public until 10pm every day, so if you’re in the area, popping by for a meal is also an option.
Right next door is an arcade that has the childhood classics, from claw machines with our ever favourite blind boxes, to a vintage Time Crisis 4.
Having been there, here’s some pro tips we’d like to share to make your experience as special and smooth sailing as possible!
- Come prepared: Let us be the last ones to underestimate the cold. Winter-grade jackets and snow boots for those above the age of 2 are available for free rental – but you get to skip the queue if you bring your own. Capitalise on sweater weather and bring your ugliest Christmas jumpers along – I had three layers of clothes on below the puffer jacket they offered, and was nice and toasty throughout. Long pants will also be strongly recommended if you want to have a go at the slides.
- Remember your socks: For hygiene purposes, socks and gloves are not for rent. While they can be purchased on-site, when leaving the house, put on a pair of shoes to save those extra bucks for the hot chocolate instead. Beanies and earmuffs if you have them will come in handy too.
- Bring the essentials only: Thankfully, lockers are available to store your belongings but capacity is limited so do keep the shopping bags and non-essentials to a minimum. If the little ones are tagging along, it can become messy trying to get everyone into their winter gear while fretting about storage.
- Pick an evening time slot: While wintery fun can be had at all times of the day, we’d recommend a later session so when you step out of the arena, you can fully immerse yourself in the romantic outdoor lights, against the nearby Marina Bay waterfront. The last hour of each session also involves an Enchanted Nights segment, where illuminated lights transform the indoor area into a surreal Nordic paradise.
Keep all of that in mind, and you’re set for a wondrous time at Ice Magic: Winter Wonderland. Head over to their Instagram at @icemagicasia for the latest updates, or share your snaps with the hashtags #IMuptoSnowGood #IceMagicSG #IceMagic2023 #IceMagicAsia.
Tickets are priced at S$39 for adults, or you can get a 4-pax package at S$120. To book your snowy adventure today, visit SISTIC at https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/icemagicsg2023. Advanced booking is highly recommended as each session has a visitor limit.
Ice Magic’s Winter Wonderland is located at Bayfront Event Space (beside Marina Bay Sands), 12A Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018970.
Opening Hours: Ice Magic Experience – 10am to 7pm; Winter Food Village: 10am – 10pm, extended to midnight on New Year’s Eve
