Updated 19 January 2026
Shades of red and white are popping up all over the city for a full-scale celebration as the 60th National Day festivities are about to begin. This event which is celebrated on August 9th of the year and is the occasion for many Singaporeans to reflect on our nation’s achievements, the direction our country is taking and what should be done to get there. It is also a great opportunity for all of us to have some much-deserved fun.
Whether you’re a local, an expat, or visiting Singapore for the first time, this day offers meaningful ways to join in the festivities through parades, fireworks, community events and cultural experiences. Here are nine great ways to take part this year!
Top Activities for National day 2025
Attend (or Watch) the National Day Parade 2026 at The Padang & Marina Bay
1. Attend (or Watch) the National Day Parade 2026 at The Padang & Marina Bay
The parade returns to its historic venue at The Padang and simultaneously expands to include Marina Bay, ensuring more people can partake in the experience. Expect aerial displays, parachute jumps, a mobile column of vehicles, multicultural performances and national-pride pageantry.
2. Visit Satellite Viewing & Celebration Sites
Whether or not you have parade tickets, you can join the celebrations through the five non-ticket satellite sites such as The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay and Marina Barrage where live screenings, food booths, games and fireworks take place.
3. Catch the Fireworks from After Dark
The National Day fireworks light up the night on 9 August, and there are many free vantage points including Merlion Park, Helix Bridge, Bay East Garden, and the waterfront of Marina Bay. Arrive early to get a good view and bring a light jacket—it may be breezy near the water.
4. Join a Heartlands Celebration
On 10 August 2025, local neighbourhoods such as Bishan, Punggol, Yishun, Geylang and Bukit Gombak host heartland celebrations featuring community fireworks, drone shows, live music, and even fly-past jets and vehicles. This is a great option for a more relaxed, local-flavour way to celebrate.
5. Explore National Day Trails & Outdoor Installations
Check out interactive trails like the Bay Discovery Trail around Marina Bay that include craft stations, traditional games such as gasing and chapteh, food markets and family-friendly fun.
6. Visit Museums & Exhibitions with Free Entry & Light Shows
Many museums offer free or special programmes during National Day – for example the National Museum of Singapore presents interactive exhibitions, LED facade projections from 7.30 pm and hands-on activities for kids.
7. Dine on Local Delights & National Day-Themed Meals
Celebrate with food! Many restaurants and hawker centres offer red-and-white themed dishes, special promotions and local-style feasts for friends and family. This is a fun way to share the day with helpers, neighbours, or visiting guests. Click this link for official Singapore day discount coupons you and your family can enjoy.
8. Take a Staycation or Sky-High View for the Night
Make the day memorable by booking a staycation or grabbing a high-floor seat in venues like the Singapore Flyer or rooftop restaurants to view the skyline and fireworks from above.
9. Record Your Singapore Wish & Share the Spirit
In celebration of SG61, join social-media campaigns such as “Share Your SGWish” or download the SGMoji to add your personal touch.Capture photographs, post your favourite moments and tag them to be part of the national narrative.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, 9 August 2026 and make the most of this major milestone for Singapore. Whether you’re standing on the Padang, walking a trail along Marina Bay, enjoying hawker fare with family and helpers, or simply watching fireworks from a vantage point—there’s something meaningful for everyone.
It’s a day to reflect on the past 61 years, celebrate today’s unity and look ahead to the future.
Don’t hesitate to share with us more ideas to celebrate Singapore National Day. Drop us a line by commenting on the article below.