National Day Guides

National Day in Singapore: what it celebrates

National Day in Singapore falls on 9 August each year. It marks the day Singapore became an independent country in 1965. It is a public holiday, and the whole city takes part. National flags hang from homes and office blocks for weeks before. Many people wear red and white, the colours of the flag, on the day.

The National Day Parade

The highlight is the National Day Parade, known locally as NDP. It is a large evening show with marching groups, an aerial flypast, music, dance and fireworks. Helicopters fly the state flag past the crowd. Parachutists from the Red Lions, the armed forces parachute team, drop into the venue.

The venue changes between years. The parade has been held at the Padang, the National Stadium and on the waterfront at Marina Bay. Check the official National Day Parade website for the current venue and plans.

How parade tickets work

Parade tickets are free, but they are given out by an online ballot. The ballot is mainly for Singapore citizens and permanent residents, so most visitors will not get seats. The good news is that many parts of the show can be seen from outside the venue.

Rehearsals and previews

The parade is rehearsed on several weekends in July and early August. These rehearsals often include the flypast and fireworks. If you are in Singapore in the weeks before National Day, you may catch the show without the holiday crowds.

Best free viewing spots

When the parade is held at Marina Bay or the Padang, the waterfront around the bay is the place to be. Fireworks and flypasts can be seen from many points. Popular spots include:

• Merlion Park, with open views across the water.
• Helix Bridge and the promenade near it.
• The waterfront outside Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.
• Marina Barrage, whose grassy roof is popular with families and picnickers.

Arrive early, as good spots fill up hours ahead. Bring water, a hat and something to sit on. When the parade is at the National Stadium, the fireworks are best seen from around Kallang instead.

Celebrating beyond the parade

National Day is a good time to learn about Singapore's past. The National Museum of Singapore tells the country's story from early times to today. Some attractions and shops also run National Day offers in the weeks around the holiday.

For food, places around Marina Bay are busy on the night. Satay by the Bay at Gardens by the Bay and Lau Pa Sat in the business district are both hawker centres close to the waterfront. Eat early, as queues grow before the fireworks.

Tips for National Day

• Use the MRT. Roads around the parade venue close for the event. See How to Get to Marina Bay by MRT, Bus and Taxi for routes.
• Expect big crowds. Stations near the bay get very busy after the fireworks. Wait a little before heading home.
• Book a room early. Hotels in Marina Bay & CBD fill up fast for the holiday weekend.
• Stand for the anthem. If the national anthem, Majulah Singapura, plays near you, stand quietly as a sign of respect.
• Plan for heat and rain. August is hot, and short showers are common.
• Keep it budget-friendly. Our guide to Marina Bay on a Budget lists free sights and cheap eats nearby.

FAQs about National Day in Singapore

When is National Day in Singapore?

It is on 9 August every year. If it falls on a Sunday, the next Monday is a public holiday.

Can tourists attend the National Day Parade?

Tickets are given out by ballot, mainly to citizens and permanent residents. Visitors can still watch the fireworks and flypast for free from public spaces nearby.

Where can I watch the National Day fireworks?

It depends on the venue. When the parade is at Marina Bay or the Padang, the promenade around the bay offers good views. Arrive early to get a spot.

Are shops open on National Day?

Yes. Most malls, restaurants and attractions stay open. Roads near the parade venue close, so travel by MRT.