Singapore’s beloved food and music festival returns for its fourth edition, promising an even more spectacular celebration than previous years. Running from 29 May to 22 June 2025 at Bayfront Event Space, GastroBeats transforms Marina Bay into a vibrant playground where culinary delights meet live entertainment. With free general admission and over 40 food vendors, this year’s festival introduces new characters, immersive experiences, and an expanded lineup that caters to every taste and age group.

Festival dates and essential details

GastroBeats 2025 operates daily from 4pm to 11pm throughout its month-long run. The festival’s location at Bayfront Event Space offers stunning Marina Bay views, making it an ideal backdrop for both daytime and evening festivities. What makes this event particularly accessible is its completely free general admission policy, though certain special activities require separate ticketing.

The festival runs concurrently with i Light Singapore 2025, allowing visitors to combine their evening with both culinary adventures and spectacular light art installations around the bay area. This dual experience creates a perfect opportunity for families and friends to enjoy multiple attractions in one location.

Jelilo takes centre stage

This year’s festival introduces Jelilo, a charming character designed by Singaporean creative powerhouse Lester Lim. Three life-sized characters – Captain Skull, One Eye, and Scarface – will roam the festival grounds, creating photo opportunities and interactive moments throughout the event. These playful additions represent the festival’s commitment to bringing joy and childlike wonder to visitors of all ages.

The Jelilo characters are more than mere entertainment; they’re part of an environmental awareness initiative called “Let’s Trouble The Water!” which educates festivalgoers about marine pollution and sustainability. This thoughtful integration of fun and education exemplifies GastroBeats’ role as both entertainment venue and community platform.

Culinary highlights and must-try vendors

When considering what to expect on GastroBeats 2025, the food selection stands as the festival’s crown jewel. Over 42 food stalls showcase both returning favourites and exciting newcomers. Jett Barbecue returns with their legendary Texas-style smoked ribs, prepared using massive industrial smokers imported directly from Texas and smoked for up to 12 hours.

Warabimochi Kamakura brings their viral dessert drinks alongside GastroBeats-exclusive items including the Kinako Strawberry Royale and Black Sesame Warabimochi Cup. Their popularity has made them a must-visit destination for dessert enthusiasts seeking Instagram-worthy treats.

New vendors add fresh excitement to the lineup. What The Puff introduces fusion curry puffs with unconventional flavours like chilli crab and mentaiko tuna, complete with a cheese pull challenge for competitive food lovers. Slurp Your Oysters flies in premium oysters from Japan’s Murotsu Bay, serving them both chilled and grilled with creative toppings.

The festival’s commitment to local talent shines through vendors like Aunty Siam, featuring traditional Hakka fare, and TatoThoughts, a Gen Z-led venture specialising in loaded baked potatoes. These home-based businesses represent Singapore’s entrepreneurial spirit and culinary diversity.

Music and entertainment programme

Live music performances occur nightly on the main GastroBeats stage, featuring local artists across multiple genres. This year’s lineup includes soulful singer-songwriter Murphy, Jean Kai & The Way Out, and pop-rock band TheAfterParty, showcasing Singapore’s vibrant music scene.

The festival introduces “Rewind. Replay. Remix: SG Edition,” a 30-45 minute immersive musical journey through three eras of Singaporean music. Visitors travel through themed zones representing the 1950s-60s Retro Revival, 1970s-80s Electric Disco, and 1990s-2000s Digital Pulse periods. Each ticket includes a complimentary drink, making this ticketed experience excellent value for music enthusiasts.

Family-friendly activities and attractions

GastroBeats 2025 maintains its reputation as a pet-friendly festival, welcoming furry family members to join the festivities. The festival grounds feature carnival games, arcade activities, and interactive zones designed for all ages.

Solace Studios debuts Singapore’s first American diner-themed photo booth concept, offering four different shooting angles in an authentic diner setting. This unique attraction provides perfect opportunities for memorable photos with friends and family.

Special branded zones add variety to the festival landscape. The Carlsberg Kopitiam recreates nostalgic streetscape elements, while Connor’s Shake Express features a London Underground-inspired setup with graffiti walls and DIY keychain stations.

Beverages and adult entertainment

Adult visitors can enjoy dedicated drinking areas throughout the festival. Jalan Carlsberg creates a nostalgic kopitiam atmosphere with Singapore’s largest kopitiam chair for photo opportunities. The iichiko Club by Makoto-Ya collaborates with local bars to serve exclusive shochu-based cocktails, with rotating partnerships featuring establishments like Neon Pigeon.

Beer enthusiasts can take advantage of special promotions, including DCS Card holders’ buy-two-get-one-free offers on selected beverages. These deals make the festival more affordable for groups looking to enjoy extended evening celebrations.

Planning your visit

Understanding what to expect on GastroBeats 2025 requires strategic planning due to the festival’s popularity. Peak hours typically occur between 7pm and 9pm when live performances draw largest crowds. Arriving earlier allows better vendor access and shorter queues for popular food items.

The festival’s month-long duration provides flexibility for multiple visits, allowing guests to sample different vendors and catch various musical acts. Given Singapore’s tropical climate, evening visits offer more comfortable conditions for outdoor dining and entertainment.

GastroBeats 2025 represents more than just a food festival; it’s a celebration of Singapore’s cultural vibrancy, culinary innovation, and community spirit. Whether you’re seeking outstanding local cuisine, live entertainment, or family-friendly activities, this year’s festival promises memorable moments for every visitor. Mark your calendars for this unmissable celebration that truly embodies the essence of Singapore’s diverse and dynamic food scene.