The Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) is ushering in the season of new beginnings with its Indian New Year Open House, taking place on 18 and 19 April 2026 in the heart of Little India. This vibrant two-day celebration brings together traditions observed by Singapore’s diverse Indian communities — from the Tamil Puthandu to the Sikh Vaisaki, the Malayalee Vishu, and the Telugu and Kannada Ugadi — through a lively weekend of performances, workshops, craft activities, food experiences and shared cultural celebrations.
Anchored by the theme of “Renewal”, this year’s Open House is set to be a joyful affair with something for everyone, whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, cultural immersion, or simply a festive day out.
What to Expect at the Open House
Live Cultural Performances (11am – 5pm)
Immerse yourself in the celebrations of various Indian communities! From Bhangra to Ghoomar, enjoy back-to-back live cultural performances throughout the day. Special performances by recent “Outstanding Youths in Intangible Cultural Heritage” award recipients Banupriya Ponnarasu and Niranjan Pandian will be a highlight of the weekend.
Live cultural performances at the Indian Heritage Centre Indian New Year Open House. Photo: Indian Heritage Centre
Festive Market (10am – 5pm)
For the first time, IHC will introduce a Festive Market featuring over 15 first-time vendors, with a refreshed line-up each day. Discover unique finds and support local Indian home-based makers specialising in a variety of crafts, textiles, and treats!
The curated Festive Market features over 15 first-time vendors. Photo: Indian Heritage Centre
Free Craft Activities (10am – 5pm)
Bring home your own collectibles with hands-on crafts for everyone! Activities include designing your very own Potli Bag, a unique door gift often found in Indian weddings, and decorating a mini Hanging Bell — perfect for ushering in the new year.
Hands-on craft activities for all ages at the Indian Heritage Centre. Photo: Indian Heritage Centre
Free Guided Tours
Embark on a deep dive into the Singaporean Indian community as docents bring you on a free tour of IHC’s Permanent Galleries at 11am and 2pm. As part of the Tamil Language Festival, a Tamil Language tour will also be offered on 18 April at 11am.
Ticketed Workshops
Looking for a deeper experience? Several ticketed workshops are on offer, including a Festive Rice Cooking Demo with Chef Sowmiya ($10/pax, 18 April), a Traditions of Little India Trail & Banana Leaf Lunch ($30/pax, 18 April), and a Children’s Storytelling session ($12.50/pax, 18 & 19 April).
A special Tholpaavai Koothu (Shadow Puppetry) Workshop under the Nam Marabu series will be presented by sixth-generation master puppeteers Mr Muthuchandran and Mr Muthumurugan on 19 April — though this session is already sold out!
Plan Your Visit
The Indian Heritage Centre is located at 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924, in the heart of Little India. The Open House runs from 10am to 5pm on both days, with free admission to galleries for all visitors.
For more information and to register for ticketed workshops, visit the Indian Heritage Centre website.
If you’re looking for more things to do this weekend, check out our roundup of YEAH GELATO’s 1-for-1 promotion at Plaza Singapura or the Link Outlet Warehouse Sale at Toa Payoh.
