All The Fun Things To Do Over National Day In Singapore
The public holiday on Wednesday, August 9 – when the Lion City turns 52 – doesn’t quite make for a long weekend. But there’s nothing to stop you from having fun in the days leading up to it, and even after! Here are some places to be at, with celebratory activities for everyone.
By MANDY LIM BEITLER,
National Day Open House at the Istana
A variety of cultural performances and fun activities will be held on the premises of the official residence and office of the President of Singapore ahead of National Day this year. Apart from touring the Istana building and beautifully landscaped grounds, visitors of all ages can get hands-on with various crafts and learn about heritage arts, or simply enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns!
Where: Orchard Road
When: July 30, 8.30am to 6pm
Nearest MRT station: Dhoby Ghaut
More info: www.istana.gov.sg
Civic District Outdoor Festival: When Time Stood Still
Follow the journey of two siblings on an adventure to save Time itself – it’s a massive multimedia production that will be projected upon heritage monuments in Singapore’s historic Civic District. Other highlights of the festival include art installations, theatre and music performances, an art market and a food street, with the huge Padang lawn transformed into a giant picnic ground.
Where: Civic District
When: August 4 to 5 & 11-12, 6pm to midnight
Nearest MRT station: City Hall
More info: www.nationalgallery.sg
Sundown Festival 2017
Singapore’s homegrown talent is set to wow audiences at the eighth edition of this much-anticipated music festival. A brand new event stage located within scenic Labrador Park on the southern coast of the island will showcase the likes of Derrick Hoh, Jack & Rai, The Summer State and other local artistes. Tickets available through Sistic.
Where: City Beach Resort, 8 Port Road
When: August 5, from 4pm till late
Nearest MRT station: Labrador Park
More info: www.sundownfestival.sg
National Day Photo Exhibition 2017
More than just a gallery showcasing an assortment of photos documenting streets, buildings and heritage sites around the little red dot, this exhibition is extra special because the photos are taken by its residents! You too, can share your photos of Singapore’s street scenes and be a part of this two-year project to build a valuable collection for the National Archives of Singapore.
Where: Level 1, The Plaza, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street
When: July 29 to August 8, 10am to 8pm
Nearest MRT station: Bugis
More info: www.brasbasahbugis.sg
GetActive! Singapore 2017
Take part in fun sporting activities and friendly competitions across the island this National Day. New additions to the lineup of sports and para-sports this year include cycling, pétanque and pickleball. Conquer seven obstacle courses in the 5.2-km Sentosa Adventure Race or compete in Ultimate Frisbee at Palawan Beach, Sentosa on July 29-30.
Where: Various venues islandwide
When: July 29 to August 9
More info: www.myactivesg.com
National Gallery Singapore National Day Open House
Explore the exhibits at National Gallery Singapore and take part in a fun scratch-art activity that takes you back in time, or simply admire the beautifully restored neoclassical architecture of City Hall and the former Supreme Court buildings. General admission is complimentary, although ticketing charges still apply for special exhibition YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow.
Where: 1 St Andrew’s Road
When: August 9, 10am to 7pm
Nearest MRT station: City Hall
More info: www.nationalgallery.sg
Orchid Extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay
Singapore’s growth from fishing village to vibrant metropolis is likened to a butterfly’s metamorphosis in this year’s edition of Orchid Extravaganza. Amid the stunning landscape of diverse orchid species is a sculpture of 52 butterflies in the shape of the island state – in celebration of its 52nd birthday. Find out more at one of the free twice-daily guided tours – look for the “ASK Me!” poster near the Flower Field.
Where: Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive
When: Till August 20, 9am to 9pm
Nearest MRT station: Bayfront
More info: www.gardensbythebay.com.sg
So Singapore at Sentosa
On the resort island of Sentosa, the iconic Merlion becomes the canvas for a special National Day edition of its colourful audio-visual light show every evening. An artisan’s bazaar and live performances happen every Saturday, with acts ranging from traditional Chinese face-changing to classic Indian music. Over at Palawan Green, enjoy local delights and heritage-themed activities at an all-day carnival from August 4 to 13.
Where: Various venues on Sentosa island
When: Till August 27
Nearest MRT station: Harbourfront
More info: www.sentosa.com.sg
Images: Museum Roundtable, National Gallery Singapore, Sundown Festival, Gardens By The Bay, Sentosa Development Corporation
This story first appeared on www.silverkris.com
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