After nearly three decades of live music, drinks, and unforgettable nights, Wala Wala Cafe Bar in Holland Village is officially staying open — and fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
Originally slated to close in September, the iconic venue has found new life thanks to a heartfelt outpouring from its community of loyal patrons and musicians. In a surprise update, Wala Wala announced that it will be extending its lease until at least December 2026, after a new agreement was reached with the landlord.
“It was a collective miracle,” said Wala Wala’s owner Stanley Yeo, as quoted by The Straits Times. “The landlords gave us a rental offer we couldn’t refuse.”
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What sparked the change? Thousands of messages, social media posts, and even handwritten notes from fans and artists flooded in, urging the owners to reconsider. “It was quite emotional,” Yeo added in his interview with CNA Lifestyle. “We didn’t realise how many people loved the place.”
Opened in 1993, Wala Wala has long been a launchpad for Singapore’s indie and live music scene, hosting now-household names like Jack & Rai, Tabula, and Shirlyn & The UnXpected in their early days. From two-storey gigs to ice-cold beers on the terrace, it's been a cornerstone of Singapore’s nightlife.
The team plans to renovate the space in the coming months, but don’t worry — the soul of Wala Wala will stay intact. “We want to keep the spirit of what made Wala, Wala,” Yeo shared with CNA Lifestyle. “Live music, good vibes, and community.”
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