A Neighbourhood with Heart! 🎄
This Christmas, Kreta Ayer comes alive — not just with twinkling lights and festive cheer, but with a shared purpose of giving back.
Tucked between Chinatown and Outram, our little stretch along Kreta Ayer Road has always been more than just a place of business — it’s a community built on heart, culture and connection. Once the bustling centre of Singapore’s early Chinatown, Kreta Ayer (Malay for “water cart”) was named after the bullock carts that delivered water from Ann Siang Hill to the residents here. Over time, it became a gathering place for artisans, opera performers and tea houses — a space where everyday life met tradition and artistry.
Today, that same community spirit continues to flow through its cafés, craft studios and social enterprises. And this December, we’re joining hands as neighbours to do something meaningful together — to raise funds for “60 Lights, One Future”, a local initiative supporting underprivileged children in Singapore through mentorship and education.
Through this event, we hope to show how small actions — a cup of coffee, a handmade gift, a visit to a local shop — can collectively make a big difference. It’s a celebration of heritage, heart, and hope, and a reminder that giving back can be as simple (and joyful!) as exploring your own neighbourhood.
Get your free Neighbourhood Map Passport and explore over 25 participating shops, cafés and studios — each offering exclusive discounts, workshops, and festive treats.
💫 Get a stamp at each participating partner
🎉 Earn exciting rewards, gachapon spins and lucky draw entries!
Collect your map at The Social Space (Blk 333 Kreta Ayer Rd #01-14)
🎁 Prizes & Collectables
🌟 Collect Limited-Edition Stickers
Celebrate the spirit of Kreta Ayer with our exclusive sticker series, featuring charming illustrations inspired by our neighbourhood’s people, places and traditions.
Available only at selected partner shops, these stickers are your little badges of discovery — collect all 8 to complete the full set!
🎠 Spin the Gachapon Machine
Every 2 stamps on your Neighbourhood Map Passport earns you one Gachapon spin at The Social Space (Blk 333 #01-14).
Win surprise treats, vouchers and gifts sponsored by our generous community partners - every capsule holds a little something to brighten your day!
🎉 Enter the Lucky Draw
Complete 8 stamps or more to enter our Lucky Draw and stand a chance to win our $500+ Local Gift Bundle, packed with products and experiences from all your favourite Kreta Ayer shops.
Drop off your completed passport at The Social Space before 7PM on Sunday, 7 December to qualify!
Our partners are donating a portion of sales, sponsoring prizes, and creating meaningful experiences — because when we come together, we can light up more than just Christmas lights; we can light up lives.
✨ As a community, we aim to raise $6,000 to light up young lives across Singapore
Together, we can make a difference — one visit, one smile, and one child’s future at a time. You can be part of that impact simply by exploring, shopping, or joining an activity.
☕ Happening at The Social Space
To set the tone for Kreta Ayer Gives Back, The Social Space will be hosting a line-up of festive experiences that celebrate community, creativity, and conscious giving.
These initiatives are part of a wider collective effort — with every neighbour along Kreta Ayer adding their own special touch. Together, we hope to showcase how our neighbourhood can make a real difference this Christmas season.
🎁 Expanded Retail Pop-Up
Browse our festive pop-up featuring social-impact and sustainable brands — perfect for conscious Christmas gifting. Discover handmade accessories, eco-lifestyle products and meaningful presents that give back to people and the planet.
☕ Festive Hot Chocolate Stand
Warm up with a cup of our Festive Hot Chocolate, topped with marshmallows and Christmas cheer. Served just outside the café — perfect for a quick pick-me-up while exploring the neighbourhood.
🌿 Experiential Seating & Play Area
Take a break in our eco-friendly cardboard furniture zone by Paper Carpenter — a creative, photo-worthy spot for adults and kids. You’ll also find a selection of their festive cardboard décor available for purchase in-store.
🎨 Kids’ Craft Station with Paper Carpenter
Drop by our craf corner and choose between a DIY kit or a guided workshop where they’ll help you bring your festive masterpiece to life. Materials provided, fun guaranteed!
💌 Gratitude Wall
Pause and reflect — write three things you’re grateful for and hang them on our Gratitude Wall to share kindness and positivity with the community.
💛 10% of All Sales Donated
Throughout the weekend, we'll donate 10% of all café and retail sales to 60 Lights, One Future, supporting underprivileged children through mentorship, enrichment and daily meals.
🌟 Meet Our Neighbour Partners!
Discover the people and purpose behind each stop — every business here is giving back in their own way.
💅 Beauty with Purpose
The Nail Social: Singapore’s first socially-conscious nail salon offering self-care that uplifts. Every treatment provides fair employment and holistic training for women from vulnerable backgrounds.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🖤 Wear your story with pride
Vagabond Ink is a boutique tattoo studio where storytelling meets skin art. Known for its bespoke designs and clean, client-focused approach, Vagabond turns every tattoo into a meaningful masterpiece. Inclusive to all, this space is also LGBTQ+ friendly.
Donating $500 to "60 Lights, One Future".
💫 Dress with comfort, confidence and care
Will & Well is an inclusive fashion label redefining comfort and dignity through adaptive design. Each thoughtfully crafted piece makes dressing easier for all bodies, abilities and lifestyles.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🌼 Pause, breathe and heal from within
Health Yoga is more than a yoga studio, it’s a healing space. Health Yoga specialises in therapy-based yoga that supports physical recovery, emotional wellbeing and inner stillness.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
✨ Light a candle that changes a life
Gentlehands Craft is a heartfelt candle studio empowering young adults on the autism spectrum through creative craftsmanship. Each handmade candle carries purpose, scent, and a story of inclusion.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🏋️ Train with purpose, move with heart
Push Pull Give is a purpose-driven gym blending fitness with social good. Each class funds youth development programmes, turning every rep into an act of empowerment.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🎨 Get your hands messy, and create something that’s uniquely yours
Weekend Worker is a pottery and ceramics studio that celebrates the beauty of handmade craft. Known for its welcoming workshops and earthy aesthetic, everyone, from beginners to hobbyists, are welcome to visit to slow down and reconnect through clay.
Donating 25% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🖌️ Paint, unwind, and find your flow
LACA is a creative sanctuary that turns art into mindful escape. Welcoming both beginners and artists alike to paint freely, with flexible sessions designed to spark joy and calm.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🥐Slow down and enjoy a taste of France
Henri Boulanger Bistro is a cozy French bistro that celebrates the simple joy of good food and good company. From golden croissants to hearty mains, every dish is crafted with care and a touch of Parisian charm.
Donating xx% of sales to "60 Lights, One future".
💈 Sit back, relax, and look sharp
British Barbers is a traditional British grooming experience with a modern twist. Precision cuts, hot towel shaves and impeccable service make this a go-to for gentlemen who value craft and care.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🍮 Treat yourself to a slice of perfection
Queic by Olivia is a specialty cheesecake boutique led by pastry chef Olivia Ledger. Known for reinventing the classic Basque cheesecake, each creation is rich, refined, and beautifully indulgent.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One future".
🍓 Pause for something sweet and serene
Fieldnotes is a minimalist bakery that celebrates nature through flavour and form. Their seasonal cakes and tarts marry Japanese-inspired aesthetics with Singaporean craftsmanship.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🛠️ Ride in rugged, roll out refined
Big Bad Wolf is a barbershop with attitude; blending classic craftsmanship with a bold biker spirit. Known for sharp fades, precision cuts and leather-clad charm, Big Bad Wolf isn’t just about grooming - it’s about confidence, rebellion, and style.
Donating 10% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
❄️ Light, chewy, and perfectly sweet - just how mochi should be
Xiao Gege's signature snowball mochi proves that dessert doesn't need to sugar-heavy to satisfy. Handmade, pillowy, soft, they offer a modern twist on tradition, every piece carefully crafted.
Donating 50% of sales to "60 Lights, One Future".
🥁 Experience the roar of tradition
Hok San Association is Singapore’s oldest lion dance troupe, famed for their skill, spirit, and storytelling through movement. Hok San keeps heritage alive with every beat of the drum and leap of the lion.
Sustainable Indoor Plants
Little Botany champions urban gardening that promotes eco-friendly living, social inclusion, and positive community change. They spread joy with little pots that bring nature and happiness into homes. Plus, 10% of proceeds go to Caritas Singapore, supporting lives in meaningful, lasting ways.
Macrame & Weaving Art
Macramenian x Hoopla weaves stories through knots, loops, and handmade details. From wall art to crochet keychains, each piece uses cotton, yarn, and reclaimed materials. Rooted in care, 10% goes to Fashion For Cancer, aiding research and patient support.
Embroidered Gifts & Goods
Momshoo and Toko Yoelia come together to share stories, and handmade charm. From soft plush toys to lovingly sewn and printed pieces, each creation is made with care - and 10% of all sales go to SPCA to support 24/7 rescues, cruelty investigations and animal welfare efforts in Singapore.
Whimsical-design Ceramics
Inspired by children's books, Ocio Ceramics is a local pottery studio that creates vibrant, illustrated ceramics that add whimsical touches for your home. They donate 50% of sales to SPD, helping people with disabilities integrate into society and live fuller lives.
*Available on 9th August only
Plant-based Hair & Body Care
Patrichory makes plant-based hair and body care in Singapore with premium, sustainably sourced ingredients. Their pH-balanced, eco-friendly products blend herbs and aromatherapy. 6% of sales support Care for the Elderly Foundation, aiding frail seniors with home medical and nursing care.
Supporting Home-Based Makers
Ray of Hope is Singapore’s only crowdfunding charity dedicated to meeting emerging and unmet needs. They provide a trusted platform for individuals who don’t qualify for traditional aid, ensuring no one is left behind. Every act of giving builds resilience and spreads kindness.
Upcycled Glassware
Refind is a creative studio in Singapore turning discarded glass into art, design, and learning. Founded by a skilled glass blower, they upcycle waste like wine bottles into functional cups. Through workshops and community projects, they show glass waste is just a beautiful new beginning.
Books by Incarcerated Parents
New Life Stories works to prevent intergenerational incarceration by giving every child a fairer start. Through Love Beyond the Walls—books written by incarcerated parents for their kids—they help heal bonds and build hope for life beyond prison, rebuilding families with dignity.
Eco-Friendly Hand-Drawn Batik
Nyana Nyana is a Singapore eco fashion brand and social enterprise turning dead stock into stylish pieces. Their SG60 “Kopi & Karipap” line celebrates heritage food, alongside other SG-themed collections with natural dyes, batik, tie-dye, and weaving.
*Available on 10th August only
🎨 Hands-On Fun: Workshops & Activities
Roll up your sleeves and dive into craft, culture, and creativity, and take home something meaningful - explore our workshop line-up!
🏮 Heritage Highlights: Discover Kreta Ayer
Nestled between the cultural enclaves of Chinatown and Outram, our flagship space along Kreta Ayer Road offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz — where old traditions meet new ideas.
Dating back to 1822, this area was part of Singapore’s first town plan by Sir Stamford Raffles. Among the four sub-districts of Chinatown, Kreta Ayer quickly became its beating heart. The name itself — “Kreta Ayer,” Malay for “water cart” — was inspired by the bullock and ox carts that once carried water from the wells of Ann Siang Hill to local residents in the mid-1800s.
Many of the early settlers here were Cantonese immigrants, who brought with them the rich cultural customs that continue to shape the neighbourhood’s character today. Once famous for its teahouses and opera theatres, Kreta Ayer remains the cultural soul of Chinatown — where nanyin music, lion dance, and wushu are still proudly practised.
As you explore the map, take a moment to slow down and discover the stories that live within these streets. Take a moment to soak it all in — the sights, sounds and stories that make Kreta Ayer such a special part of Singapore’s cultural landscape.
🎨 Chinatown Murals
Beautiful hand-painted scenes telling stories of samsui women, letter writers, and street barbers who once filled these lanes.
🛕 Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple
One of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, known for its vibrant architecture and intricate sculptures.
🏛️ Kreta Ayer Heritage Gallery
Learn about the history and heritage of Kreta Ayer, and highlights the area’s rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage.
🎭 Kreta Ayer People’s Theatre
A beloved venue for Cantonese opera and cultural performances that keep old traditions alive.
🐉 Hok San Association
Established in 1920, this clan is the first lion dance troupe in Singapore. Join in their training every Sunday from 10am to 1pm.
🏯 Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Just a stone's throw away, this temple is the architectural marvel and spiritual landmark at the heart of Chinatown.
Need to Know: FAQs
Register online and collect your Neighbourhood Map Passport at the following locations:
- The Social Space (Blk 333 Kreta Ayer Rd #01-14).
- The Nail Social (Blk 333 Kreta Ayer Rd #02-15
You can also walk in during the event weekend to pick one up while stocks last!
Yes! The neighbourhood crawl is free for everyone — simply bring your map, curiosity, and festive spirit.
All participating partners will be donating a portion of their weekend sales or selected products towards our fundraising goal of $6,000 for 60 Lights, One Future under the Singapore Red Cross’ Young Hearts programme.
Of course! We love seeing your snapshots of the day — just remember to tag us and our partners so we can share your stories too. 📸
Yes! Bettr Coffee Café offers vegetarian, vegan, and some gluten-free options. Just look out for the signs or feel free to ask the friendly vendors - they’ll be happy to help.
It’s super accessible by both bus and MRT.
- 106, 131, 166, 175, 502, 857. Nearest stops: Middle Rd - Sunshine Plaza (07571) and Bencoolen St - Bef Bencoolen Stn Exit A (04029).
- Bencoolen MRT (DT12) is just 2 mins away, Bras Basah MRT (CC2) is 6 mins, Rochor MRT (DT13) is 8 mins, and Dhoby Ghaut MRT (NS24|NE6|CC1) is an 11 min walk.
If you’re taking a taxi or private hire, indicate '11 Prinsep Link' and alight at the pick-up point via Prinsep Link.
Yes! There’s outdoor parking behind Blk 333, indoor parking at Blk 334, and street parking in front of Blk 5 Banda Street and along Keong Saik Street.
Yes, definitely! You can walk in to collect your map at The Social Space during the event. Registration just helps us prepare enough maps and goodies for everyone.
No worries — most stops have sheltered walkways or indoor spaces. Just bring an umbrella, and we promise the fun (and good vibes) will go on rain or shine! ☔
We’d love that! Please tag us @thesocialspace.sg and include #KretaAyerGivesBack so we can see and share your post. For media or collaboration enquiries, drop us an email at hello@thesocialspace.sg
We’re here to help! Send us a message on Instagram @thesocialspace.sg or email hello@thesocialspace.sg
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