After last year’s overwhelming response to the inaugural Artbox Singapore, the pop-up creative market will be returning for two more weekends of food, fashion and fun. Here’s how to survive the sweltering heat, crazy crowds and more.
1. Comfort > Cool
When you’re jostling with thousands of other people in Singapore’s sweltering heat, you really don’t want to be wearing something that is anything but comfortable. Yes yes, we know that #OOTDs are important, but this is probably not a good time to bust out a pair of heels. We say, keep everything light – your outfit, makeup and bag – and you’ll have a much more enjoyable time at Artbox Singapore 2018. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, kiddos.
2. Crowd Control
This year’s Artbox Singapore will have three times more space as compared to last year’s edition, which means you’ll have more room to browse around leisurely (as opposed to squeezing through hordes of people). If you’re heading down with a bunch of friends, it might be a wise idea to set a meeting place and time in case you get separated from each other. After all, if there’s anything we’ve learnt from ZoukOut and Ultra Music Festival, it’s that the cell reception in crowded areas may not always be the best.
As with most crowded venues, public transport will probably be the most convenient way to get there. The event space is right next to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands (see the map here), so find your way to Bayfront MRT station and it’ll be a short walk from there.
3. Gear Up
…if you want to get some good shots at the event, that is.
Besides a selfie stick, you might want to consider bringing a wide angle lens. The event spans over 140,000 square feet of space, so a wide angle lens will get you some nice shots of what’s going on. If you’re heading over in the evening, bring a selfie light so you can do your selfies and food photos justice with better lighting.
There will also be a Viewing Deck constructed from 20-foot shipping containers, where you can get shots of the crowd from a higher vantage point. If you want some truly Insta-worthy photos, head over to the psychedelic foam pit – we hear there will be plenty of pool floats there.
4. Shop Wisely
A wise shopper once said, always do your research before Artbox Singapore…just kidding, we made that up. However, with over 400 booths of fashion, beauty, food and art vendors slated for both weekends, things might get somewhat overwhelming if you don’t plan ahead.
The organisers haven’t posted a full list of vendors yet, but you can download the Plus! app to get the scoop on any deals or giveaways happening during the event. The app also has information on the event location, performance timings and more.
Also, #auntyhack alert – bring your own necessities to avoid paying for overpriced water and umbrellas (if it rains). If you’re planning on shopping up a storm, bring a lightweight foldable tote bag. There are no lockers available at the venue, so a tote bag is a convenient way to store all your shopping.
5. Don’t Go Hungry
Ahh…what’s Artbox Singapore without some mindless snacking? There will be plenty of food and beverage vendors at the event of course, but it’s easy to get lost in the sea of stalls. Head straight to the dining zone to score some good eats (and rest your feet) – there will be over 160 stalls with food, snacks and drinks, as well as a designated seating area with beach chairs and benches.
Artbox Singapore will take place from 3pm – 11pm on 25 to 27 May and 1 to 3 June 2018, at Bayfront Event Space (next to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands). For more information, visit their website here or follow them on Instagram. Images courtesy of Artbox Singapore.
