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A Guide to Singapore’s 59th National Day Celebration

Samuel Ting

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Singapore National Day

As Singapore gears up to celebrate its 59th National Day, the excitement and anticipation are palpable across the nation. With a rich history and a spirit of unity, National Day is more than just a public holiday; it’s a time for Singaporeans to come together and celebrate their shared identity, achievements, and aspirations. 

Here’s your complete guide to what you can expect from Singapore’s 59th National Day, from the grand celebrations at the Padang to the vibrant heartland festivities.

 

Singapore National Day

National Day in Singapore is celebrated every year on 9 August, marking Singapore’s independence from Malaysia in 1965. This day is cherished by Singaporeans for its National Day Parade (NDP), the Prime Minister’s address, and the dazzling fireworks that light up the night sky. It’s a day of national pride, reflection, and looking forward to the future.

 

Theme for Singapore’s 59th National Day: “Together, As One United People”

The theme for this year’s Singapore National Day is “Together, As One United People.” This theme beautifully encapsulates the essence of Singapore’s success and resilience. Despite the challenges faced over the past 59 years, it is the diversity and unity of the people that have enabled Singapore to overcome obstacles and flourish. The theme reflects the spirit of inclusivity, community, and trust that has been pivotal in shaping the nation’s journey.

 

The Singapore National Day 2024 Theme Song: “Not Alone”

Adding a melodious touch to the celebrations, the NDP 2024 theme song, “Not Alone,” is written and composed by the talented Benjamin Kheng. This song pays homage to past NDP songs by incorporating familiar lyrics, evoking a sense of nostalgia while rekindling the patriotic spirit among Singaporeans. The lyrics, written from a first-person perspective, start on a melancholic note but gradually become uplifting, fostering a sense of belonging and familial bond.

 

 

Pre-National Day Engagement Activities

In the lead-up to Singapore National Day, a series of engagement activities are set to bring the community together. The #GiveAsOneSG and #TogetherAsOneSG campaigns are key initiatives this year.

  • #GiveAsOneSG Campaign

This campaign aims to raise awareness about volunteering and encourages Singaporeans to participate in meaningful activities that give back to society. Organized in partnership with SG Cares, Singapore Red Cross, and Goodhood.SG, #GiveAsOneSG is part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY) to promote volunteerism in 2024, designated as the Year of Celebrating Volunteers.

  • #TogetherAsOneSG Campaign

This campaign encourages Singaporeans to come together to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Initiatives under this campaign include FlyOurFlag, EatAsOne, August Goes to School, and Dance of the Nation. Even Singaporeans living overseas can participate through the Singapore@Home campaign. Partners for this campaign include the Agency for Integrated Care, Families for Life, MOE, SG Enable, SportSG, Singapore Global Network, and Yellow Ribbon.

 

The Grand Celebration: Padang and Promontory @ Marina Bay

Marina Bay Singapore

NDP Celebrations at the Padang

The NDP 2024 at the Padang will be a grand affair with four distinct segments:

  1. Pre-parade: This segment will feature performances by students from the Ministry of Education (MOE), local artists, and the iconic Red Lions parachute display team.
  2. United We Stand: The Parade and Ceremony (P&C) segment will highlight a combined Military Tattoo comprising the SAF Band and four Secondary Schools’ Bands. The Volunteer Contingent will return to showcase the vital role every Singaporean plays in the nation’s defense. This segment will include crowd favorites such as the choir music video, the State Flag Flypast, Salute to the Nation, Presidential Gun Salute, and Feu de Joie.
  3. Together, We Are Strong: The Total Defence 40 (TD40) Dynamic Defence Display (D3) will be performed at the Padang for the first time. This segment showcases integrated responses to various threats, including air and maritime threats and civil emergencies.
  4. Our People: This show segment will tell the stories of Singaporeans through four chapters and three connecting short films, highlighting the collective strength and unity that define Singapore.

 

NDP Celebrations at the Promontory @ Marina Bay

For the first time, the NDP celebration will extend to the Promontory @ Marina Bay. Co-organized with NTUC, attendees can enjoy live stage performances, watch the live telecast of the NDP at the Padang, and experience the TD40 D3 maritime and aerial segments live. Fireworks will light up the sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.

 

Heartland Celebrations: Bringing the Festivities Closer to Home

On 10 August 2024, the celebrations will continue in the heartlands, bringing the excitement of Singapore National Day closer to the community. Organized by the People’s Association (PA) in partnership with the NDP 2024 Executive Committee, these celebrations will take place at five heartland locations from 4.00 pm to 9.00 pm.

 

What to Expect at the Heartland Celebrations

Each district will have its unique theme and feature static displays of SAF, SPF, and SCDF vehicles. Families can look forward to engaging in family-friendly activities, exciting carnival games, hands-on workshops, and captivating live stage performances. The celebrations will culminate in spectacular fireworks displays, allowing residents to enjoy the festivities within their community.

 

Where to Celebrate: Heartland Themes and Locations

Heartland Celebrations

  • Bishan (Central Singapore District) 

– Theme: Unity in Diversity, Location: Open field opposite Bishan Circle Line MRT Station

  • Punggol (North East District) 

– Theme: One HOME, Location: Open field next to Waterway Point

  • Yishun (North West District) 

– Theme: Moving Forward, Cherishing our Past, Location: Open field next to Futsal Arena @ Yishun

  • Paya Lebar (South East District) 

– Theme: Lights Up, Power Up, Location: Open field next to Paya Lebar Quarter 1

  • Buona Vista (South West District) 

– Theme: Hearts ToGather, Location: Open field next to Buona Vista MRT Station

 

Ticketing for Heartland Celebrations

From 12 July 2024, the public can collect tickets for the Heartland Celebrations at their nearest Community Clubs/Centres (CCs) on a first-come, first-served basis. Each person can collect up to two tickets, which will grant access to the respective Heartland Celebration site within their district and a complimentary NDP pack. The list of CCs where tickets can be collected is available online (click here).

 

Fireworks Extravaganza

A highlight of the Singapore National Day celebrations is the fireworks display. On 9 August, simultaneous fireworks displays will light up the sky at Promontory @ Marina Bay and the heartlands. Additionally, every Saturday leading up to Singapore National Day, there will be fireworks during the NDP rehearsals, providing multiple opportunities for Singaporeans to enjoy the dazzling spectacle.