Why Esplanade’s March On festival is a Must-Visit for Families

Every March, families across Singapore look forward to the school holidays, a perfect window for discovery, play and bonding. At Esplanade, those weeks come alive with March On, the annual festival created especially for young audiences. It’s more than entertainment: March On is a space where children’s voices, stories and imaginations take centrestage, supported by artists who know how to design meaningful, magical experiences for them.

 

And here’s the best part: You don’t need to wait until March to enjoy Esplanade for kids. Embark on PIP’s Trail, a free digital adventure around Esplanade’s public spaces, or go for the PLAYtime! theatre series, where meaningful stories are staged with care, always as Relaxed Performances. In other words, even before and after the festival, there are always things to do in Singapore with kids at Esplanade.

 

 

What Makes March On Special

March On is Esplanade’s largest festival for young audiences. Every edition is carefully curated around themes that resonate with children, from friendship and resilience to imagination, family and identity.

 

The festival is also about diversity. Each year, children have the opportunity to experience a mix of local and international artists, allowing them to encounter new perspectives, cultural traditions and art forms. 

 

 

Performances Tailored for Young Audiences

Parents often ask, “What sets March On apart?” The answer is that these performances aren’t just entertainment. They’re made to nurture imagination, curiosity and growth in children, utilising hands-on activities, in-depth storytelling and meaningful interaction to place kids at the centre. 

 

In this way, March On is much more than a festival. It’s a holistic empowerment journey for young minds, encouraging them to embark on their own adventures.

 

Interactive Theatre that Makes Kids Part of The Story

In 2025, families stepped into The Lost Lending Library, an enchanting world where every visitor joined forces to resolve an unfolding mystery, and in 2024, they helped Borg and Yorg welcome a new friend, Gorg, into their dance circle. That’s part of what we stand for: Children aren’t just spectators at March On, they become part of the narrative. This hands-on approach builds confidence, empathy and creative thinking, making the arts a truly personal experience. 

 

Music and Dance for Rhythm and Energy

Music and dance performances bring a different kind of magic, one that is physical, communal and uplifting. That’s why every year, March On has a line-up of songs and moves to drive growth and exploration in young audiences, encouraging kids to express themselves physically, build confidence and experience the arts in ways that go beyond passive listening. It’s a place where children learn to dream boldly, explore new possibilities, and carry those rhythms of creativity into their everyday lives.

 

Relatable Stories From The Heart

At the heart of March On are stories that children can connect with and grow from. With every line-up, March On continues its commitment to creating joyful, transformative experiences for young audiences. The festival’s enduring success lies in how it balances fun with holistic development, giving children not just memorable performances, but opportunities to learn, feel, and dream boldly year after year.

 

 

Hands-On Workshops and Creative Activities

March On goes beyond a seated, passive audience. It invites children to create, move and explore for themselves. In 2025, Pass It On encouraged families to co-create stories together, while in 2024, What Was That?! gave young participants the chance to become “foley artists”, using everyday objects to create soundscapes.

 

Every year, workshops often span arts, crafts, drama, dance and music, giving children the chance to explore their interests in a supportive setting. 

 

These activities nurture a sense of adventure and creativity, ensuring that every age group has something designed just for them.

 

 

Free Programmes Around Esplanade

Another hallmark of March On is its wide selection of free family activities in Singapore, perfect for casual drop-in visits or families on a budget.

 

• The performances at Esplanade Concourse feature music, dance, and theatre in an accessible, air-conditioned space. This is a reliable option for free indoor activities for kids Singapore families love.

• At the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre, the Marina Bay skyline becomes a backdrop for free programmes.

• Interactive experiences transform Esplanade’s spaces into playgrounds for the imagination. Children are invited to move, play and engage directly whether through mass games, hands-on installations or activities that encourage families to create together. 

 

These events are flexible—no tickets, no fuss—making them a top choice for parents searching for free activities that kids can enjoy spontaneously.

 

 

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

Every March On festival is built with inclusivity at its core. The venue is designed with accessibility features to ensure smooth travel and maximum enjoyment for kids and adults alike. Families can relax and enjoy the festival knowing their needs are supported.

 

• Relaxed Performances and relaxed environments make theatre welcoming to all children, including those with sensory sensitivities. Families can move in and out freely without worry at these shows.

• Family-friendly facilities such as nursing rooms, child toilets, stroller parking and barrier-free routes ensure smooth movement around the building.

• Membership perks add extra value. The Esplanade&Me membership gives families access to special ticket prices and Esplanade’s year-round gem—PIP’s PLAYbox, a cosy arts space designed for children to read, play and create. Best of all, the base tier is completely free! Remember to add your child to your profile to get your PIP’s Club badge assigned to your member profile. (PIP is the arts centre’s colourful children’s mascot!)

 

 

Tips for Planning Your Visit

A little planning can turn your March On day into a truly memorable outing. Here’s how to make the most of it:

 

• Check the programme early. The line-up for March On 2026 will be announced on Esplanade’s website around 2 to 3 months before the festival begins. Highlight shows or workshops your child may love and book tickets quickly as popular sessions are snapped up fast.

• Arrive early for workshops. Even when free, sessions like storytelling or craft activities may have limited capacity. Arriving 20–30 minutes before start time increases your chances of securing a spot.

• Mix and match activities. Plan a day that balances structured sessions (like a theatre show) with casual drop-in programmes at the Concourse or Outdoor Theatre. This keeps the pace manageable for younger kids.

• Pack light, but smart. Bring water bottles, wet wipes, and a change of clothes if your child is doing craft or outdoor play. Stroller parking is available if needed before you head into a venue for a show.

• Take advantage of parking perks. If you’re driving, note Esplanade Mall’s weekday promotion: free parking from 12–3pm with a minimum $30 spend. Combine lunch with your visit for convenience.

• End your day with free performances. After a morning workshop or ticketed show, enjoy the free evening concerts or dance performances. It’s the perfect way to wind down as a family. P.S. Free performances at the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre take place only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

 

 

A Festival That Grows With Your Child

March On is not just a one-time outing. It’s a festival families can return to year after year. Many families make it a tradition, coming back every March to see how the festival has grown with their kids.

 

But the journey doesn’t stop there. If you’re wondering where to bring kids this weekend, Esplanade offers family-friendly activities all year round, from the free PIP’s PLAYbox arts space to the self-guided PIP’s Trail and the ever-popular PLAYtime! theatre series for preschoolers. Visit Esplanade today and be part of the magic.