Singapore turns 60 this year, and National Day 2025 is set to be one of the most expansive celebrations in the country’s history. On 9 August, the National Day Parade will unfold across two key venues including The Padang and Marina Bay. These locations will bring synchronized performances, fireworks, and military displays to thousands of spectators. While The Padang hosts the main parade, Marina Bay will mirror the experience with its own dynamic programming, including LED screens broadcasting the event and a floating stage offering up-close action on the water.
Festivities begin around 7:30 p.m., with a lineup that includes crowd favorites such as the Red Lions parachuting into The Padang and naval divers making dramatic descents into Marina Bay. Expect to see iconic moments like the State Flag Flypast and the Presidential Gun Salute, along with the return of the mobile column (i.e., an impressive display of military equipment moving across land, air, and sea). This year’s showcase will also feature a rare maritime display, giving Marina Bay viewers a brand-new perspective.
The cultural program is just as powerful. National Day classics will be reimagined by local icons Kit Chan, Dick Lee and Charlie Lim, who will headline four performances inspired by the National Anthem. Even if you didn’t win a ticket through the official ballot, you can still catch fireworks and select performances from public viewing spots such as The Helix Bridge, Marina Reservoir, Esplanade Waterfront Promenade, and the Singapore River.
On 10 August, the celebrations continue in the heartlands with events in Bishan, Punggol, Yishun, Geylang and Bukit Gombak. Each site will offer a unique theme and family-friendly experiences including fighter jet flypasts, drone shows, community art installations, exhibits and live entertainment. Kids can even enjoy a skating zone at select locations. Tickets to these heartland celebrations are available at community centres and are given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Each Singaporean can redeem two tickets along with a complimentary NDP pack.
If you’re staying home, keep your eyes on the skies. The state flag flypast and aerial salute will still be visible from many neighborhoods. Between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m. on 10 August, four F-16 fighter jets will make two loops over each heartland venue, ensuring the celebration reaches every corner of the island.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
From heritage performances and dazzling flypasts to art installations and military showcases, NDP 2025 promises a nationwide tribute to Singapore’s journey at 60. No matter if you’re at a live venue or watching from your neighborhood, the entire city becomes part of the celebration.
