Every year, Singaporeans look forward to the Mid-Autumn Festival – a season that celebrates family togetherness, folklore, and of course, beautiful lanterns. In 2025, the highly anticipated Lights by the Lake Festival has returned to Jurong Lake Gardens, and this year’s edition is bigger and brighter than ever before. Running from 27 September to 12 October 2025, the event offers a stunning showcase of artistry, culture, and entertainment, with over 1,200 lanterns illuminating the gardens each evening. Best of all, entry is completely free.
For those who enjoy cultural festivals, scenic walks, or simply spending quality time with family and friends, this event is one not to miss. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Lights by the Lake 2025 worth experiencing, and why it should be on every Singaporean’s calendar this Mid-Autumn.
The Largest Lantern Display Yet
This year’s edition is the largest in the festival’s history, with more than 1,200 lanterns spread across the gardens. As dusk falls, the glowing lanterns transform the park into a magical wonderland. Families with young children will find it especially enchanting, as the illuminated displays provide countless opportunities for storytelling, exploration, and of course, memorable photos.
The organisers have also put careful thought into the design of the lanterns. Each area of Jurong Lake Gardens showcases a different theme, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences within one evening stroll.
Journey Through Monkey King’s Adventure
A highlight of this year’s festival is the Journey to the West-inspired installations at Lakeside Garden. Visitors can follow the adventures of Sun Wukong, Tang Sanzang, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing through giant lantern displays.
The Lakeside Field and Butterfly Field have been transformed into a storytelling trail, with each installation depicting different chapters of the legendary Chinese classic. Children will be especially fascinated by the mischievous Monkey King, while adults may appreciate the deeper cultural symbolism behind the story.
The Mesmerising Cloud Pagoda Light Show
If there’s one thing that keeps visitors coming back year after year, it’s the Cloud Pagoda Light Show. Returning for 2025, this dazzling spectacle sees the elegant pagoda come alive with moving light projections that dance across its surface.
The shows run every 30 minutes from 7.30pm to 10pm daily, offering multiple chances for guests to catch the performance. The Cloud Pagoda is located within the Chinese Garden, which is easily accessible from Chinese Garden MRT station.
This is not just a visual treat but also a chance to appreciate how modern technology blends seamlessly with traditional architecture to create something truly captivating.
A Celebration of Harmony in the Chinese Garden
The Chinese Garden has always been a centrepiece of Jurong Lake Gardens, and during the festival, it becomes even more stunning. This year, one of the most talked-about displays is “Chang’e and her Moonlit Garden”, which reimagines the story of the moon goddess in glowing detail.
For those who enjoy cultural tales and mythology, this section of the festival is a must-visit. The lanterns are intricately designed, reflecting not just artistry but also the harmony and balance often celebrated in traditional Chinese culture.
Tranquility at the Japanese Garden
While the Lakeside and Chinese Gardens are lively and vibrant, the Japanese Garden offers a quieter, more reflective experience. Lanterns here are designed to evoke calmness and serenity, giving visitors a space to slow down and appreciate the surroundings.
Displays such as “The Lantern Dream of Little Mei” and “Blossoms Beneath the Moon” capture the poetic beauty of nature, while the Sunken Garden light show adds a dynamic element with multicoloured patterns that turn the space into a glowing amphitheatre.
This section is perfect for couples seeking a romantic evening stroll or anyone who enjoys a more peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
Lantern Exploration Quest – Collect Exclusive Pins
To make the experience even more engaging, the organisers have introduced the Lantern Exploration Quest. By downloading the NEAR app, visitors can participate in a fun scavenger hunt to spot all five Sun Wukong lanterns at the Lakeside Garden.
Once participants upload photos of these lanterns to the app’s Community Wall, they can redeem an exclusive Jurong Lake Gardens pin at any of the three Visitor Services Counters from 6.30pm to 10pm daily.
The collectible pins feature designs inspired by iconic elements of the gardens, such as the Cloud Pagoda, Common Kingfisher, and Pink Mempat. For families with children, this quest adds an extra layer of fun, turning the evening into an interactive adventure.
Food, Music, and Cultural Performances
Of course, no festival is complete without food and entertainment. A dedicated Food Market offers seasonal treats that reflect the festive spirit of Mid-Autumn. Visitors can look forward to enjoying local delights while surrounded by glowing lanterns.
In addition, live performances bring the gardens to life. From community ensembles to larger shows like Rockestra, the entertainment lineup ensures that each evening feels vibrant and dynamic. These performances highlight Singapore’s diverse cultural scene and create a lively backdrop for families and friends to enjoy.
Why You Should Go
There are many reasons to make time for Lights by the Lake 2025:
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It’s free – a great option for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a memorable night out without breaking the bank.
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It’s inclusive – there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after lively performances, cultural storytelling, or a peaceful stroll through lantern-lit gardens.
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It’s photogenic – the installations and light shows provide countless opportunities for beautiful photos, perfect for capturing memories or sharing with loved ones.
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It’s seasonal – the event only runs for a limited time, making it a special experience tied to the Mid-Autumn Festival.
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It’s accessible – located at Jurong Lake Gardens with MRT access, it’s convenient for families from all across Singapore.
Visitor Information
The festival runs from 27 September to 12 October 2025, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm daily. Entry is free for all visitors. For further details, you can visit the official page at go.gov.sg/lbtl.
As the event draws large crowds, visitors are advised to park bicycles in designated areas or dismount when inside the gardens. To ensure safety, open flames such as sparklers or candlelit lanterns are not permitted.
Final Thoughts
Lights by the Lake 2025 is more than just a lantern display – it’s a celebration of culture, storytelling, and community. Whether you’re reliving the adventures of the Monkey King, marvelling at the Cloud Pagoda light projections, or enjoying a quiet moment in the Japanese Garden, there’s something for everyone.
With its combination of tradition and modern creativity, this festival truly embodies the spirit of Mid-Autumn in Singapore. So gather your loved ones, plan an evening trip to Jurong Lake Gardens, and experience the magic while it lasts.
Promotional/Event Details:
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Date: 27 September–12 October 2025
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Time: 6.30pm–10.30pm daily
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Venue: Jurong Lake Gardens, Singapore
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More Information: go.gov.sg/lbtl
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