Nightlife in Singapore is dead… or is it? Time Out took to the streets recently – and by streets, we mean the Fred Again show – to ask folks what they really think about Singapore’s nightlife scene. Spoiler alert: the vibes were grim. But this latest release by the government might be a glimmer of hope for partygoers and bar owners alike: From August 18, nightlife venues in Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Upper Circular Road will be able to apply for a license to serve alcohol till 4am on Fridays and Saturdays.
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That’s an hour longer than what’s currently allowed, with booze service at bars, pubs, nightclubs and certain restaurants in the area capped at 3am from Monday to Saturday. As for Sundays and public holidays, these venues are already allowed to sell alcohol till 4am on those days, so no changes there. This new move is part of a one-year trial aimed at breathing life back into the Singapore River precinct and getting more late-night crowds into the area on weekends.
Business owners and nightlife lovers are keeping their hopes up, but there’ll naturally be some hesitation around the news. Back in 2018, a similar trial that permitted venues in Clarke Quay to sell alcohol till 4am on Saturdays concluded just after four months due to rising safety concerns. This time round, the government ministries and authorities say they’ll be stepping up enforcement in the area to keep things orderly while ensuring that businesses can flourish at the same time. So if you’re partying near the area any time soon, remember: big night out, not last night out.
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