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ARTBOX AVENUE poised to offer unparalleled lifestyle experience for all to enjoy

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Get ready to kick off 2024 with an exhilarating burst of excitement! Forget about those New Year’s resolutions and gear up for the spectacle of ARTBOX AVENUE, Singapore’s largest indoor all-day night festival. As visitors step into the Singapore Expo Hall 2, they will be treated to a vibrant and bustling city, with each corner filled with different zones and experiential activities to guarantee a memorable time.

With tickets starting at $6 per person and featuring more than 300 retail and F&B vendors, the excitement unfolds over two consecutive weekends from January 26th to 28th and February 2nd to 4th, this year’s instalment is set to dazzle visitors from all ages and around the world.

ARTBOX AVENUE is not just an event; it’s an immersive celebration of global culture, a feast for the senses, and an experience that will leave a lasting imprint on every visitor. It boasts a tantalising array of international delicacies and not only that, transforms into a global shopping experience featuring artisanal boutiques and retailers from across borders. Moreover, captivating performances by both local and international artists will set the stage for an immersive celebration of global culture at ARTBOX AVENUE. This showcases ARTBOX’s pioneering role in shaping a unique lifestyle and cultural experience within Singapore’s festivals and events industry.

Expressing his excitement about ARTBOX AVENUE, Kent Teo, Founder and CEO of Invade shared “We envisioned this year’s instalment to be an immersive journey into the heart of global culture, where vibrant experiences and limitless creativity converge. Our commitment to providing a platform for businesses and artists to shine is unwavering. ARTBOX AVENUE 2024 will feature a diverse range of vendors that reflect the global celebration of culture, diversity, and the universal language of the arts.”

Attracting over 60,000 visitors last year, ARTBOX is now geared up to elevate and make it even more memorable for all. Partnering up once again with SGAG as the co-organiser, the event ensures an integration of vibrant creativity and engaging experiences. With an emphasis on curated experiences in the realms of F&B, retail, and performing arts, this year’s instalment promises an unforgettable journey for all visitors.

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HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Adrian Ang (@sgagxiaoming) takes on the Beam of Pain in ARTBOX 2023

At the SGAG stage, stand a chance to win $888 in cash as visitors will be treated to a riot of fun and pain with the all-new electrifying Hopscotch of Pain challenge. Participants have to hop on one leg and cross a beam covered in acupuncture mats, channelling the classic hopscotch game but with a hilarious, painful twist.

But that’s not all – brace for the adrenaline rush with two fresh competitions: the National Piak Cockroach Championship in week 1 and the National Water Bottle Tornado Championship in week 2, where the best contenders will pocket $888 in cash prizes in each thrilling event.

In anticipation of the opening of ARTBOX AVENUE, Adrian Ang, HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer said “We are thrilled to be back again for ARTBOX AVENUE, adding a whacky and humorous twist to the event we all know and love today. Visitors can expect much more challenging competitions at our SGAG stage and walk away with cold hard cash!”

Transforming Spaces Through Art

Renowned graffiti artist and Illustrator hailing from Malaysia, Cloakwork (@cloakwork on Instagram) will be stepping into the spotlight at ARTBOX AVENUE. With his distinctive style that seamlessly blends street art with storytelling, Cloakwork is set to transform a dedicated space into an immersive showcase of his vibrant and captivating artwork.

Another distinguished Malaysian artist, MonKiddo (@itsmonkiddo on Instagram), is poised to captivate visitors through the creation of captivating artwork at the Central Avenue of ARTBOX. From intricate detailing to vibrant compositions, MonKiddo’s contribution to ARTBOX AVENUE is set to be a focal point, inviting visitors to witness the intersection of imagination and artistic brilliance within the dynamic landscape of this year’s festival.

Retail Revelry: From Trendsetting Fashion to Artisanal Finds

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Some participating brands from Thailand, from left to right:  Loma.Whale, Outerouter and rust brand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)

ARTBOX AVENUE will turn into a bustling marketplace and retail haven, where international and local artisans from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and South Korea will showcase their wares to offer a truly unique retail experience. From trendsetting fashion to traditional crafts, the festival will be a treasure trove of eclectic finds.

In addition to satisfying your international retail cravings, ARTBOX AVENUE proudly showcases a diverse array of homegrown talents, including beloved brands like Talking Toes (@talkingtoesofficial on Instagram), renowned for their iconic funky socks, and Maverick Made (@maverick_made on Instagram), offering an exquisite selection of handcrafted leather goods. These local gems add a touch of homegrown flair to the eclectic shopping experience that awaits.

International Flavours Take Center Stage

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Some participating brands from Singapore, from left to right: The Swag Social, The FAB FIVE and K Ō B A S H Ī (Photos courtesy of Instagram)

Indulge your taste buds as popular F&B vendors from around the region come to create a global feast for ARTBOX AVENUE. Whether you enjoy the savoury aromas of Thai cuisine, an eclectic mix of South Korean street food or local delights with a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours, there is surely something for everyone.

For visitors with a sweet tooth and who like to get their hands ‘dirty’, the renowned chocolatier Janice Wong will be hosting an indulgent painting workshop, where you can transform sweet canvases into edible masterpieces. During this immersive experience, participants will have the chance to delve into the artistry of chocolate-making under the expert guidance of Janice Wong’s team, discovering the secrets behind their signature confections.

Harmony Across Borders: International Performing Arts and Entertainment Showcase

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From left to right: Jocelyn Ng, Singaporean Violinist, Spruce Teo, Singaporean Saxophonist and The Parkinson, a pop band hailing Thailand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)

Be captivated, moved and entertained by the enchanting performances from local talents such as the mesmerising Jocelyn Ng, a virtuoso violinist, and the soulful Spruce Teo, a talented saxophonist.

Thailand’s own musical maestros, The Parkinson, will also mark its presence as they take the stage on the first Saturday of ARTBOX AVENUE, proudly presented by ARTBOX’s Official Lager Beer, Chang Beer.

Visitors are also in for a treat with other onstage live performances by our local music bands Reverie, The Passerby, The Mad Trio and many more! On top of bringing delightful music to the enthused crowd, Chang Beer will also be giving out merchandise and free beer to kick off a perfect year with ARTBOX.

The fun does not stop there – whether you’re a karaoke enthusiast or a first-time crooner, sing your hearts out to your favourite tunes at Teo Heng’s Karaoke-in-a-Container where visitors get a chance to unleash their inner rockstar. This is an excellent opportunity to embrace the spotlight and make memories that resonate long after the music fades.

Not only that, visitors are invited to indulge in a unique chess experience by Aliwal Chess Club, where they can try their hands at creative chess activities that blend intellect with imagination. Beyond the game, explore and take home exclusive merchandise that reflects the artistry of chess. Engage in a hands-on session where you can build your own customised tote bags and as an exciting bonus, participants have the chance to enter the Snap & Win contest, with the grand prize being a custom-made chess table valued at over $800.

Level Up Your Experience with Classic and Virtual Games

Step into the ultimate Gamestop Arena at Open Plaza – home to ARTBOX’s Switch and VR Games. The space invites visitors to play while sinking into comfy seats and immersing themselves into the gaming world– the perfect blend of comfort and playfulness.

In addition, The Arcade People (TAP) takes over the Arcade Alley at ARTBOX AVENUE where visitors get to immerse in a world of classic and modern arcade games that will keep the fun going all day and night. But that’s not all – TAP is bringing the heat with daily challenges throughout the two weekends of ARTBOX that allow daily top scorers to walk away with prizes.

Ticket Prices (inclusive of booking fee):

Pre-Event (from now until 25 January 2024)

General single-admission tickets are from $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends per person

Event (26 January to 4 February 2024)

General single-admission tickets are from $7 on weekdays and $8 on weekends per person

Early Risers 4-pax Bundle (For entries on Fridays, 12 PM slots) are available at $16 (U.P. $23)

For more information, please visit https://www.artbox.sg/

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Destinations

Going Chinese in Pulilan, Bulacan

Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan, and we’re on the fence here (yes if no choice, no if you can go elsewhere).

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We happened to be in Pulilan in Bulacan, and I had pancit craving. As if on cue, we passed by Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan, which – after we Google-checked – is supposedly one of the more frequently-visited Chinese restos in these parts of the province, so… of course we checked.

@outragemag Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, this place is really, REALLY easy to find. Located along the Pulilan Regional Road in Barangay Cut-cot in Pulilan, this is right in the middle of the municipality.

Ikalawa, the resto is actually divided into three parts: one side is for those with reservations, another part is for walk-in diners, and another part is for events. If/when the resto isn’t full, only the main part (middle one) is kept open.

No, this isn’t some fancy resto. More like an airconditioned karinderya, complete with wooden tables and plastic chairs. Look-wise, it wasn’t dirty naman when we were there, so that’s a plus.

Ikatlo, the workers were friendly naman… and they moved fast – e.g. while waiting for our orders, we were given must-check peanuts, and since we finished what we got fast, our waitress was more than happy to accommodate us.

Ika-apat, now… how was the food?

The house specialty, the Lee Foo Chicken (₱265 for half, ₱495 for whole), looked like fried chicken with ketchup. Okay… the breading was okay since it didn’t overpower the meat. The chicken, too, was properly cooked, and it wasn’t dry. But it was tasteless overall; so the ketchup taste is what stays with you.

The Pancit Canton Bihon (₱255) had thin pancit noodles, almost as thin as the bihon. It didn’t have lots of sahog; instead, you’d notice the extenders (like kikiam, and so on). I like good pancit, I swear… but this isn’t one of them, sorry.

The weirdly-wrapped Hakaw (₱155) was small, so it was bitin.

And then there’s the Siomai Steam (₱155), which was, in a word, weird. The size was good, similar to those ₱10 siomais. But the way this was prepared was weird for us – e.g. like the meat was overwatered, and having a hard time staying solid, so that it was smudgy, and disintegrated in the mouth even without chewing. I suppose that, at least, it wasn’t disgusting taste-wise.

Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is, we believe, popular. Like President in Chinatown, or a branch of David’s in some mall. To each his or her own nga naman. But for us, we’re off to look for other Chinese restos na muna as we head out in search of more lafangan venues.

Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is located at 159 Barangay Cut-cot, Pulilan, 3005 Bulacan Province. For more information, contact 0925 800 0168, or email leefoopanciteria@yahoo.com.

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Travel

Treacherous beauty: Hiking at South Stack Lighthouse in Wales

#Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales.

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Yes, tech has made many lighthouses redundant. Not that they’re no longer relevant. But navigation-wise, we know we have more advanced solutions. Which, perhaps not surprisingly, led to the reconfiguration of many of them.

In Holyhead, Anglesey in Wales, introducing the South Stack Lighthouse.

@outragemag #Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, you’d need a ride to be there. Some use private cars, as we did; others join tours; and others cycle to the place.

Ikalawa, what’s there?

The lighthouse itself is located on a small, rocky island off Holyhead. From afar, it looks like someone’s grand home; mansion-like. Accessible siya after you descend down 400 steep steps. 

What will you see while there?

  • the former lighthouse engine room
  • the top of the lighthouse
  • South Stack is also home to breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins

Here’s an FYI: seasonal lang siya bukas.

This is a must-check for lighthouse lovers, of course. Historic, it was built in 1809 by Trinity House from the design of Daniel Alexander. 91-foot tall, it used to allow safe passage for ships on the Dublin–Holyhead–Liverpool sea route. 

Another FYI: It is  allegedly haunted, and has been visited by a team from “Most Haunted”.

The area housing the lighthouse is, itself, worth checking. There are trails for hikers or joggers or cyclists; though the same could be enjoyed by those who are there only to look for good shots.

Check when you’re in the area… even if you just pass by. Nice siya, promise.

But off we go for more LGBTQIA+ rampa

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Travel

Enjoying nature via trail hiking in Wales

Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales.

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When in Bangor, you’d be told often that among the best things to do is to hike. And among the must-check is the Snowdonia Slate Trail, which links the old slate-quarrying communities of Eryri/Snowdonia.

So… ayan na nga, even without the right outfit for hiking, but ayaw ma-miss ang chance to check the area, off we went.

@outragemag Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, the circular route starts near Bangor/Porth Penrhyn. And you need a car or whatever to get to the starting point.

Ikalawa, the trail isn’t just for hiking. It’s also for biking or walking dogs. So you’d be sharing the 133-kilometer long trail with others.

Ikatlo, what’s there?

Mountains built by remnants from quarry sites, to start.

So… Gwynedd used to be known for slate quarrying, and among the biggest players is Penrhyn Quarry which is near Gwynedd, part of The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Now… with slate quarrying, around 75% of extracted material are inferior in quality, called overburden, and so becoming mineral waste. Here, they’re now mountains.

But the trail also shows views typically associated with Wales – e.g. rolling hills that go on forever, rock fences, sheep farms, canals with flowing water… and more.

Usually, sa matatag, people hike the Snowdonia Slate Trail for up to seven days, passing through Bethesda, Llanberis, and so on. But for others… it’s but an opportunity to commune with nature, in a way, while taking those must-have shots.

But we’re off for more LGBTQIA+ discoveries…

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