Rugby Legends and Gourmet Pop-Ups Take Over Dempsey Hill This Weekend

Dempsey Hill is set to transform into an exciting hub of sports and gastronomy with the launch of The Dempsey PALATE: Pitchside Plates, taking place on 31 January and 1 February this weekend.

Held in the open-air space between Blocks 8 and 9, this two-day activation brings together rugby-themed entertainment, culinary pop-ups, and family-friendly activities to celebrate the upcoming HSBC Rugby SVNS Singapore. Presented as part of the Dempsey Precinct Partnership involving the Singapore Tourism Board and HSBC, the event invites the public to enjoy the heritage precinct with free admission throughout the weekend.

Foodies can look forward to a stellar lineup of pop-up booths from some of the enclave’s most popular names.

Visitors will be able to grab bites from the likes of Burnt Ends, Margarita’s, Park Bench Deli x The Pantry, and RedDot BrewHouse, while the Museum of Ice Cream will be on hand to provide sweet treats. These culinary offerings are designed to fuel visitors as they explore the lush greenery and heritage barracks, which will be buzzing with activities from Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon.

A major highlight for sports fans is the chance to get up close with international rugby royalty. On Saturday evening between 6.45pm and 7.25pm, fans can meet Alicia Lucas (née Quirk), a Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallist for Australia, and Danny Care, an England legend with 101 caps and two Rugby World Cup appearances.

Beyond the star power, the precinct will host rugby-themed games where participants can try throwing a ball through hexagons to win prizes like plushies and umbrellas.

The weekend is designed to be equally engaging for families and creative spirits. Younger visitors can enjoy balloon sculpting and face painting, while those looking for a hands-on experience can join creative workshops.

The Museum of Ice Cream is running a Dessert Squishy Painting Workshop for S$10, and Kids Space offers rugby-inspired craft sessions where children can make mini medals or bobble-head players for S$20. Adding to the atmosphere, Ann Siang Sounds will host a community jam session on Saturday from 5pm to 8pm, turning the space into a musical playground where anyone can jump in to play instruments or sing along.

HSBC Cards Promotions

HSBC cardholders heading to the event can unlock exclusive perks, including a 10% discount on food and drinks at the pop-up kiosks and preferential rates for the workshops.

Cardholders can also redeem 1-for-1 VIP tickets to the Museum of Ice Cream. Spenders can receive further rewards, such as a S410 GrabGifts voucher with a minimum spend of S$80, or a pair of Category 1 tickets to the HSBC SVNS Singapore on Sunday with a minimum spend of S$300, available while stocks last.

The event runs from 10am to 1pm and 5pm to 10pm on Saturday, 31 January, and continues from 10am to 1pm on Sunday, 1 February.