Don't Let Your Free Credits Expire! Your Ultimate Guide to the Singapore Culture Pass

Heard of the Singapore Culture Pass but not quite sure what it is? Maybe you remember receiving an email about it, but it got lost in your inbox. Well, you're in the right place! Think of the Culture Pass as your golden ticket to exploring Singapore's vibrant arts and heritage scene—completely on the house.

Essentially, it's a pool of digital credits given to all Singaporean citizens to make arts and culture more accessible. But what can you actually do with it? Forget just museums—the possibilities are broader and more exciting than you might think.

Here's a breakdown of what your Culture Pass can unlock.

(Image: A glimpse into the type of experiences your Culture Pass can unlock.)

1. Immerse Yourself in Museums and Exhibitions

This is the most classic use, and for good reason! Your credits can be used to pay for admission tickets to many of our world-class museums and cultural institutions. This is especially useful for special, paid exhibitions that go beyond the free general admission for citizens.

• Where to go:
  • National Museum of Singapore: Perfect for diving deep into Singapore's history and culture. Look out for their special exhibitions.
  • Asian Civilisations Museum: Explore the rich artistic heritage of Asia.
  • ArtScience Museum: While not always available, check the portal for specific exhibitions that might be claimable.
  • Singapore Art Museum (SAM): For lovers of contemporary art from the region.

2. Catch a Dazzling Performance

From plays and dance recitals to classical concerts, your Culture Pass is your ticket to the stage. This is one of the best ways to use your credits, as tickets for live performances can often be pricey.

• What to watch:
  • Theatre Shows: Catch a play by local theatre companies like Wild Rice or Pangdemonium.
  • Dance Performances: Experience the beauty of movement with groups like the Singapore Dance Theatre.
  • Concerts: Use your credits for tickets to performances by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) or other musical ensembles at venues like the Esplanade or Victoria Concert Hall.

3. Get Hands-On with a Creative Workshop

This is a fantastic and often overlooked category. Instead of just being a spectator, you can be a creator! The Culture Pass portal lists various workshops where you can learn a new skill and bring home your own creation.

• Workshops to try:
  • Pottery or Ceramics: Learn to throw on a wheel or hand-build your own cup or bowl.
  • Painting & Drawing: From watercolour to life drawing, there are workshops for all skill levels.
  • Printmaking: Discover techniques like screen-printing or lino-cutting.
  • Craft Workshops: Look out for unique offerings like jewelry making, leather crafting, or even perfume mixing.

4. Explore Singapore Through a Guided Tour

See your city in a new light! Many heritage and arts-focused tours are eligible for the Culture Pass. It’s a great way to spend a weekend afternoon discovering hidden stories in familiar neighbourhoods.

• Tours to look for:
  • Heritage Walks: Guided tours through historical districts like Kampong Glam, Little India, or Chinatown.
  • Art Tours: Explore public art installations or go on a gallery-hopping tour.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Get an exclusive look at a theatre or concert hall.

5. Watch an Indie Film on the Big Screen

Your pass isn't just for live arts. You can often use it for tickets to film screenings, especially those curated by independent cinemas and film archives that celebrate local and regional filmmaking.

• Where to check:
  • The Projector: Keep an eye out for eligible film festivals or special screenings.
  • Asian Film Archive: A great place to discover classic and contemporary Asian cinema.

How to Check Your Credits and Book

Ready to start your cultural adventure? Here’s how:

1. Visit the Official Portal: The Culture Pass programme is managed by the National Arts Council (NAC). You can access the listings on the official catch.sg platform.
2. Log in with Singpass: Your credits are tied to your identity, so you'll need to log in securely with your Singpass.
3. Browse and Discover: The portal has a full list of all eligible events, workshops, and activities. You can filter by date, category, or price.
4. Book Your Ticket: Simply select the event you want, and at the checkout page, opt to use your Culture Pass credits to offset the cost. If the ticket price is more than your available credits, you can pay the difference with your own money.

Final Pro-Tip: Don't Wait!

The most important thing to remember is that these credits have an expiry date. Don't let this "free money" for fun and enrichment go to waste. It's a fantastic initiative designed to encourage us all to step out and engage with the incredible creativity our city has to offer.

So, what are you waiting for? Log in, see what’s available, and book your next cultural experience today!