Lau Pa Sat, Singapore’s iconic hawker market and a gazetted national monument, managed by FairPrice Group’s Kopitiam, celebrated its 130th anniversary with the launch of “Feast for the Senses.” This series of exclusive activities, assets, merchandise, and deals invites both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Lau Pa Sat’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
A Journey Through Time with AR and VR
A highlight of the celebration is the interactive Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Lau Pa Sat Heritage Trail. This immersive experience, more than a year in the making, takes visitors back to Lau Pa Sat’s origins as a seaside wet market. With AR and VR technology, guests can explore historic vistas, including the now-defunct Telok Ayer Police Station and the bustling scenes of fishermen and street hawkers by the seaside.
Art and Music Celebrations
In conjunction with the anniversary, FairPrice Group commissioned renowned Singaporean artist Yip Yew Chong to create a ten by three metre mural titled ‘From Shoreline to Skyline.’ This artwork depicts Lau Pa Sat’s transformation over the decades, reflecting the evolution of the surrounding central business district.
Adding to the celebration, acclaimed singer-songwriter and Cultural Medallion recipient Dick Lee composed ‘The Song of Lau Pa Sat.’ This commemorative track captures the vibrant essence of the area through Lee’s distinctive lyrical style and will be featured in Lau Pa Sat’s marketing, accompanying the clock tower’s familiar hourly chimes.
Exclusive Merchandise
Visitors can also bring home a piece of Lau Pa Sat’s history with exclusive merchandise designed in collaboration with Yip Yew Chong and local illustrator Lee Kow Fong, also known as Ah Guo. The collection includes pouches, stationery, and other items adorned with Lau Pa Sat’s 130th anniversary logo and unique depictions of Singapore’s rich hawker culture. These limited-edition items are available at Food Folks @ Lau Pa Sat.
A Legacy of Hawker Culture
Declared a national monument in 1973, Lau Pa Sat has a storied past dating back to colonial times. Originally the “Telok Ayer Market,” it was relocated and rebuilt on reclaimed land in 1894. Today, Lau Pa Sat stands as Singapore’s most iconic hawker market, featuring over 80 stalls offering local and international cuisine, including six MICHELIN-recommended eateries.
Within Lau Pa Sat, visitors can explore Food Folks @ Lau Pa Sat, Singapore’s first “Everything Food” blended retail space supporting both heritage and innovative local brands. Additionally, Lau Pa Sat is home to Singapore’s largest open-air Satay Street, providing authentic street hawker experiences.
Anniversary Launch Event
The anniversary launch event featured a guided tour of Lau Pa Sat’s newly unveiled attractions. Guests, including NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng, experienced the AR/VR Heritage Trail, the ‘From Shoreline to Skyline’ mural, and the premiere of ‘The Song of Lau Pa Sat.’ These activities are now open to the public, inviting everyone to celebrate the legacy of this beloved hawker market.
With interactive trails, captivating art, melodic tributes, and exclusive merchandise, the 130th anniversary of Lau Pa Sat offers a unique opportunity to connect with Singapore’s culinary heritage.
