At a loss for what to do this week? You could catch Thor: Ragnorak but there’s plenty else (read: cooler) things to do as well. Here are 5 on our list:
If you’re a party regular, you can’t miss out on this special edition of Pop Tart – held on the Bandwagon Riverboat – yes, the very same one that used to house the floating A&W restaurant back in the day. Actually, scratch that, even if you’re not a party person (like I am), you might find your opinion changed once the party gets started – I hopped aboard the boat to report on the blooming techno scene earlier this June and found myself hooked. For this edition however, expect a healthy dose of “Britpop, Indie Rock, Pop, Emo, and head banging” so that you can pretend you’re a teenager again.
There’ll also be food, retro arcade games and even an “emo” make-up counter for those who want to relive their youth. Oh and yes, you can leave the party any time – the boat is tethered. Head to their Facebook page for more details.
Friday, 10 November, 8pm – 3am
31 Marina Coastal Drive, Berth 1, Marina South Pier
Singapore’s biggest literary event returns for its 20th edition (on now till November 12) – this year’s festival focuses on the Tamil ideology of “Aram”, which translates roughly to doing good. As always, there’s a plethora of workshops, events, talks and even art performances – dealing with various topics such as a writer’s role in contemporary culture, climate change and more. There’re plenty of heavyweights this year – examples include the Pulitzer Prize-winning American novelist Junot Diaz, who will be speaking on how marginalised communities can empower themselves in these dark days.
Also, don’t miss out on beloved independent book store BooksActually’s temporary digs at The Arts House – they’re the official bookstore of the festival.
For more details on timings and locations, head here.
The ever-popular Mosaic festival is back (10-14 November) with an admirable line-up of strong local and international acts (Japan, Norway, Denmark and more) this year. Singapore acts – don’t miss out on rising local rapper Mean’s set this Saturday. He’s definitely one to watch – check out our profile of him in our November issue.
Internationally, we’re looking forward to four-time Grammy Award-nominee Canadian indie pop singer-songwriter Feist’s return – she’s just launched her sixth album, entitled Pleasure. For more details, head here.
Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive
This year’s French Film Festival (9-19 November) offers 16 works – from comedies to sci-fi flicks and action-packed thrillers – that will satiate almost any Francophile’s appetite.
Various locations, check out the festival’s website for more details.
If you’re a fan of fried chicken – let’s face it, who isn’t (no offense to vegans/vegetarians), celebrated local chef Bjorn Shen will sadly be shuttering his fried chicken-focused establishment Bird Bird after a two year run. One of the prime spots for innovative fried chicken dishes (Shen originally went for a Thai-inspired slant before expanding to classic American-diner style), we’ll be sad to see Bird Bird go, so head down before November 26 – the restaurant’s last day of operation.
Small consolation: fans of the chef can still turn to Shen’s Artichoke – his long-standing Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant on Middle Road for more of his homely, feel-good food.
97 Frankel Avenue
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