7 things to do in Singapore this week (mum-approved edition)

Passion is Volcanic: Desire in Southeast Asian Art — National Gallery Singapore, Fri 24 Apr 2026, 10.00am, S$20–25. This one's for you, mum — a grown-ups-only art exhibition that digs into desire and the body in Southeast Asian art. It's cool, indoor, and air-conditioned (perfect for escaping the heat), and at S$20–25 it won't bust the budget. Note it's R18, so leave the kids at home and make it a date or a solo afternoon. It's on till end of April, but catch it before it closes.

E-Waste Tour at ALBA and Virogreen — 18 Tuas Ave 10, Fri 5 Jun 2026, 2.30pm, S$22.05. Ever wonder where your old phone ends up? This guided tour takes you behind the scenes of Singapore's e-waste recycling journey — think of it as a school field trip for adults. It's indoor but in Tuas, so factor in travel; the tour runs about 2 hours. At S$22.05 it's a niche but fascinating way to spend a Friday afternoon, and you might just learn something to share at dinner.

Mare — 19A Yarwood Ave, Mon 20 Jul 2026, 7.00pm, S$177.13. A seven-month immersive experience that starts tonight. If you're up for something artsy and atmospheric, this is it — but brace yourself: it's pricey and runs long, so it's not for nap schedules. Indoor, so weather-proof, and definitely a date-night or 'me-time' splurge. Just know it's a commitment, so plan the week's logistics around it.

Behind the scenes: Singapore Circuit Walking Tour — Marina Bay Street Circuit, Mon 17 Aug 2026, 9.00am, S$40.91–51.40. Walk the actual F1 track! This guided tour runs 17 Aug–30 Sep, and at 9am it's early but worth it — you'll avoid the heat and the crowds. It's outdoor, so bring a hat and sunscreen (and maybe an umbrella for the typical August shower). Perfect for a school-holiday adventure with the kids if they're into cars — just check the age recommended before you book.

OCBC Great Eastern Pickleball Series — Hard Courts (The Kallang), Sat 22 Aug 2026, 12.00am (that's midnight!), S$10–28. Pickleball is a sport that's catching on, and this series is open to three generations — so you, your folks, and the kids can all play together. It's outdoor (hard courts), so start early to beat the heat. At S$10–28 it's a steal for a family activity. But note the time: midnight start is odd — double-check the actual session times before heading down, ya?

National Stadium Experience — National Stadium, Sat 29 Aug 2026, 5.00pm. A whole month of family fun at the National Stadium — think sports, esports, workshops, and stadium tours. It's mostly indoor, so it survives a rainstorm, and the 5pm slot means you can catch the cooler evening air. This is shaping up to be the ultimate school-holiday outing for the kids.