Kid-Friendly Activities at Esplanade Singapore

At Esplanade, Singapore’s national performing arts centre, we believe the arts are for everyone, no matter your age. That’s why we’ve created spaces, programmes, and performances not only for seasoned audiences, but also for families with young children. Step inside and you’ll find a welcoming world where discovery, imagination and creativity come alive at every corner. We invite families to explore all the ways kids can experience the joy of the arts—whether through interactive theatre, playful spaces, free shows or self-guided adventures.

From toddlers to tweens, there’s something here for every child to enjoy. Best of all, many of these activities are free or affordable, so it’s easy to make the arts part of your family time.

Experience the Magic of Esplanade’s PLAYtime! series

For little ones ages three to six, our PLAYtime! series is the perfect first step into the world of theatre. These shows combine storytelling, performance and imagination to create an environment where kids feel free to laugh, sing and even move around. Each show, staged in the intimate Esplanade Theatre Studio on level four, is a “Relaxed Performance”.

Relaxed Performances (RP) are specially designed shows where the atmosphere is a little more laid-back—perfect for first-time theatre-goers or children who may find traditional theatre settings overwhelming. Audiences can move around, make noise, or leave and re-enter the space more freely. At Esplanade, we programme Relaxed Performances as part of our commitment to accessibility, so everyone can feel welcome.

With three brand-new productions each year, there’s always something fresh to discover. Your child might giggle through a funny story, join in on an adventure, or be touched by a heart-warming tale you’ll be talking about on the way home. Tickets are priced at $23 (standard), making it an easy way to spark a lifelong love for the arts.

Get Creative at PIP’s PLAYbox

Also on level four, you’ll find PIP’s PLAYbox—a cosy indoor arts space for children up to 12 years old. It’s not just a playroom; it’s a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild. Inside, they can curl up with books in the reading corner, take part in rotating arts programmes, or simply dream up their own worlds in the play zones.

To visit, you’ll need to sign up for the Esplanade&Me membership and register your child to get your PIP’s Club badge—it’s free! Once inside, your kids can enjoy creative play at their own pace, while you take a moment to sit back and relax alongside them. Entry’s free with membership, making it one of the best hidden gems in the arts centre.

PIP’s PLAYbox welcomes families from 11am – 6pm each day, with a short break for cleaning from 2pm – 3pm.

Enjoy Free Performances at Esplanade Concourse and Outdoor Theatre

We believe the arts should be open to all, so you’ll always find free performances happening around Esplanade. At the Esplanade Concourse, you can drop in for indoor performances featuring music, dance and theatre in a laid-back setting.

On weekends, bring the family to the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade, where Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline make for a stunning backdrop for live shows. Every Friday to Sunday, you’ll catch performances ranging from pop and jazz to classical and film scores. Each month brings a new themed line-up, and with no tickets needed, it’s one of the easiest and most fun ways to experience live arts with your kids.

Discover PIP’s Trail

Want to turn Esplanade into an adventure? PIP’s Trail is a self-guided digital treasure hunt that transforms our building into a playground of discovery. Families can solve puzzles and play games as they explore, learning fun facts along the way.

If you’re wondering where to bring your kids in Singapore, PIP’s Trail is a playful twist that goes beyond the usual parks and playgrounds.

It’s flexible too—you can complete it at your own pace, whether during a quick stop or as part of a full-day visit. Kids will see Esplanade not just as a theatre, but as a place of imagination, fun and creativity. And yes, it’s completely free.

Planning Your Visit

Family outings need a bit of planning, and we’ve made it easy for you. Our building is stroller-friendly, with smooth indoor routes that make moving around hassle-free.

We’re just a short walk from City Hall MRT and directly connected to Esplanade MRT, so getting here by train is a breeze. If you’re driving, we’ve got free weekday parking from 12pm – 3pm when you spend at least $30 at Esplanade Mall—perfect if you’re combining lunch with a playdate.

Before you visit, check our online events calendar for the latest family-friendly shows, workshops, and festivals. There’s always something new happening, so you’ll never run out of reasons to come back.

A Family Day of Arts and Discovery Awaits

A family day at Esplanade goes beyond play—it’s a chance to spark imagination, nurture curiosity and enjoy meaningful time together. From the magical PLAYtime! series to creative play at PIP’s PLAYbox, from free live shows to treasure hunts on PIP’s Trail, there’s no shortage of ways for your kids to experience the joy of the arts.

So if you’re wondering where to bring your kids this weekend, why not plan your family day at Esplanade? Let the arts inspire your child’s creativity, imagination, and love for learning. We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to our home for the arts.