The lights go off, and the world switches on. Earth Hour, on 25 March this year, is not only a time for people to stand in solidarity with climate change, but also a time to celebrate the movement. We have compiled a list of things for you to do during the hour: from fun family activities to a night out with friends, switching off has never been this easy.
1. Be a part of the movement
Head down to the F1 Pit Building on 25 March to join the Earth Hour movement! From popular local artists like Shigga Shay, Inch Chua and Dru Chen, to local percussion group MOTUS SG, dance the night away to good tunes and great performances.
You could also head down to the Night Festival held from 21 to 24 March to learn more about WWF and its initiatives, and even pick up some race-related merchandise for friends and family. Take part in exhilarating fitness workouts, enjoy live performances from artists, and check out booths from WWF, National Geographic, Ascendas-Singbridge and Love Nature, among others.
2. Get active!
From reliving childhood memories by cycling at East Coast Park, to mandatory running for Sports Day and NAPFA in school, being physically active has in some ways become a part of our Singaporean identity. If you want to break free from the continual feeling of lethargy, or just want to switch up your routine family activities, then get up and get active!
If you’re looking for a family activity that not only works up a sweat but also supports a good cause, join the 5KM Earth Hour Run, which flags off as the city lights go off! This year, Sundown Marathon has teamed up with Earth Hour to host Singapore’s first ever sustainable marathon. Not only does the run shed light on sustainability; it will bring 35,000 people together to bring real change to our planet.
3. Get in touch with nature
Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city but can’t afford time for a getaway? Unplug from your hectic schedule by getting in touch with nature. Escape the urban city life by checking out the green spaces around us.
Visit the myriad of attractions at Gardens By the Bay and surround yourself with lush gardens, disconnecting from everything momentarily. Alternatively, you could head down to Open Farm Community, a farm community project nestled in the heart of Dempsey Hill. From group activities like Lawn Bowling to restaurant dining, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Take the time to truly engage yourself in these activities and learn more about sustainable lifestyle choices, which could better both your quality of life and the environment in the long run.
4. Have fun with photography
As the clock strikes 8.30pm, watch iconic landmarks power down in support of Earth Hour. From Esplanade to Gardens By the Bay, be a part of this annual tradition by snapping pictures of the event and uploading it on social media platforms. Update your Instagram feed with the latest photos and use the hashtags #earthhourbuddies and #earthhour. Come on guys, do it for the gram.
5. Chill out at hipster hotspots
Whether you’re reconnecting with an old beau or catching up with a group of friends after a hectic week, these hotspots will do the trick. Haji Lane, filled with hole-in-the-wall stores and quaint cafes that transform at night, is truly a hipster’s paradise. Head down to Going Om, a café/bar concept store along Haji Lane which boasts great live music and an even better atmosphere. Sit around tables that line the street and immerse yourself in quality conversations around candlelight, reducing the need for non-essential lighting.
If you’re seeking something a bit more adventurous, head down to WOOBAR at W Hotel Singapore. In lieu of Earth Hour 2017, WOOBAR will be hosting ‘SIP.SPIN.REPEAT’; an event fuelled by bicycle-powered energy. Kick back and unwind to the tunes of acclaimed DJs, while supporting a good cause too.
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Other Earth Hour Events
Here’s a roundup of other events taking place around Earth Hour!
Learn more about climate change and how you can make simple steps to lower your carbon footprint at the WWF Earth Hour Roadshows at IKEA Tampines.
- Event: Earth Hour Roadshows
- Date and Time: 20-25 March 2017, 10am – 7pm
- Venue: IKEA Tampines, 60 Tampines North Drive 2
Living in the west? Head over to IKEA Alexandra on the night of Earth Hour and have a romantic dinner powered by solar lights. You’ll also get to see some energy-saving and waste-reduction products that will help you lower your energy consumption at home.
- Event: Dinner powered by solar lights
- Date and Time: 25 March, evening
- Venue: IKEA Alexandra, 317 Alexandra Rd
Through the month of March and April, WWF Eco-Schools student leaders will be conducting 15 storytelling sessions at 3 libraries as part of Earth Hour campaign. A story on climate change has been specially created by Sheila Wee for these sessions. WWF Eco-Schools student leaders will also read storybooks with environmental themes.
- Event: Storytelling Sessions
- Date and Time: Every Friday, 7:30pm – 8:00pm
- Venue: Ang Mo Kio Public Library, Choa Chu Kang Public Library & Woodlands Regional Library
Staying home for Earth Hour but want to do more beyond switching off your lights? StarHub customers can redeem 250 rewards points for a S$5 donation to Earth Hour and help support efforts to fight climate change. Visit this link to find out more: https://rewards.starhub.com/StarHub/detail
Written by: Reema Ashok Chandiramani
