BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide: Kids & Family Activities for National Day 2024

One of the main events of the year is coming. This day is associated with freedom, the future, dreams – with independence. This day takes pride in our country and people to the next level. Yes, we are talking about National Day 2024, and this year, it is even more significant. On August 9, 2024, the nation celebrates Singapore’s 59th National Day and the 40th year of Total Defence. Singapore prepares to excite and amaze all Singaporeans and guests of the city, so we invite you to check out BusyKidd‘s Ultimate Guide: Kids & Family Activities for National Day 2024.

Here are some facts about National Day 2024:

• Theme: ‘Together, As One United People,’ which highlights the importance of everyone in our country’s strength, development, and prosperity.
• Song: ‘Not Alone’ by Benjamin Kheng.

Video Credit: Ndp.gov.sg

• Celebrations: In 2024, the National Day Parade returns to Padang. The festivities will also extend to Marina Bay. The next day, August 10, the holiday will continue with Heartland Celebrations. And this is just a tiny part of all this National Day’s breathtaking happenings and things to do for families with kids.
• The Fireworks: Yes, it is the most-awaited part of the National Day celebration for kids, and we know great spots to admire the fireworks this year.

Of course, we will gladly share all the details with you. Are you ready?

Attend the National Day Parade 2024 @ Padang

No doubt, the National Day Parade is this holiday’s highlight. As we’ve already mentioned, the NDP will be held at Padang this year and will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of Total Defence, so guests will spectate a Total Defence 40 Dynamic Defence Display for the first time ever. Of course, the NDP will feature everyone’s favorite Red Lions performance, the State Flag Flypast, and more.

The NDP will consist of four segments:

• Pre-parade. Enjoy the brilliant performance by the Ministry of Education students and local artists. Become amazed by the well-known and well-loved Singapore Red Lions Parachute Team.
• United We Stand. It is the Parade and Ceremony segment. It will include the choir music video, the State Flag Flypast, the Salute to the Nation, the Presidential Gun Salute, and more.
• Together, We Are Strong. To commemorate the 40th year of Total Defence and prove that Together, We Are Strong, NDP 2024 will feature the inaugural Dynamic Defence Display.
• Our People. Four acts, three connecting short films, incredible stories – Our People.

Celebrate at Promontory @ Marina Bay

Many things will be ‘for the first time ever’ this year, including the NDP celebration extended to the Promontory @ Marina Bay. This part of the festivities will be co-organized with NTUC and will include various activities, fantastic performances, a live telecast of the NDP at the Padang, and more. And most importantly, the main fireworks will be happening at Marina Bay, so you will literally find yourself in the middle of the main magic of this day. However, Singapore has many other great spots to watch fireworks. Are you ready to check them?

Watch NDP 2024 Fireworks

So, this evening, Singapore’s sky will be lit up with myriads of lights of all colours, making all watchers, young and young-hearted, the happiest people ever. It is an absolute highlight not just of this holiday but of the whole year. By the way, BusyKidd knows the Best Free Spots to Watch NDP 2024 Fireworks in Singapore – hurry up to check them out.

Enjoy a Sophisticated Dinner While Admiring the NDP 2024 Fireworks

Image Credit: Lavo via Facebook

Continuing the fireworks theme, we have another option to celebrate National Day 2024, watch mind-blowing fireworks, and enjoy precious time with your nearest and dearest. What about a sophisticated dinner while admiring NDP 2024 Fireworks? We have made a list of ideal places to implement this idea – you can check them out in the article about the Restaurants With Views Of The NDP Fireworks 2024.

Become Part Of Heartland Celebrations

Joy, happiness, and surprises will continue on August 10 (from 4 PM to 9 PM) with Heartland Celebrations, co-organized with the People’s Association. Five different sites will provide exciting things to do for all visitors. Various family activities, bright stage performances, static displays of SAF, SCDF and SPF vehicles, fireworks, and more – get ready for a fun-filled time.

Five districts – five unique themes:

• Yishun – ‘Moving Forward, Cherishing Our Past’
• Punggol – ‘One HOME’
• Buona Vista – ‘Heart ToGather’
• Bishan – ‘Unity in Diversity’
• Paya Lebar – ‘Lights Up, Power Up’

Hurry up and pick up a ticket from your community centre to join the festivities (free with a ticket).

GetActive! Workout: Dance Of The Nation!

Image Credit: Activesgcircle.gov.sg

Are you ready to get active and dance the day away? Feel the beat, repeat the movements – become one with your people in this Dance of the Nation. Of course, you’ll dance to this National Day’s theme song, ‘Not Alone.’ There is a tutorial for everyone, including Dance of the Nation 2024 Kids Tutorial and Dance of the Nation 2024 Adapted Seated Tutorial. Everyone can dance. Everyone can celebrate Singapore.

• More Details

NDP Celebrations @ Marina Barrage

Image Credit: Terra.sg

Join the Sustainable Singapore Gallery at Marina Barrage to spend the most memorable National Day. Watch the live parade on the Green Roof, take a fascinating tour of the Sustainable Singapore Gallery, and even become real detectives in ‘Sleuths of the Little Red Dot’ to learn more about Singapore’s Sustainable Development and the UNSDGs. Hands-on workshops, Pets and Plants Extravaganza, interactive games, After Dark Film Screening, and many other surprises also await you and your little ones at Marina Barrage.

• Where: Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018951
• When: August 9: 12 PM to 6 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Temasek Foundation x SSO National Day Concert @ Esplanade Concert Hall

Image Credit: Esplanade.com

Singapore Symphony Orchestra has a very special story about Singapore, its past, present, and future, to share with you via beautiful music. So come to Esplanade Concert Hall and feel Singapore’s identity, which cannot be described in words but only in charming sounds.

• Where: Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
• When: August 11: 4 PM
• Age: Children must be aged 5 and above
• Admission Price: From $15
• More Details

National Day Concert @ Resorts World Sentosa

Singapore’s pop icons invite everyone to celebrate this National Day together at Resorts World Sentosa. With music, songs, dance, an incredible atmosphere, and happiness all around, it’s going to be a real musical extravaganza. Are you ready to sing the night away?

• Where: Resorts World Ballroom, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
• When: August 10: 8 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: From $68
• More Details

National Day @ Singapore Discovery Centre

National Day Special Exhibition

Image Credit: Singapore Discovery Centre via Facebook

Visit the National Day Special Exhibition at the Singapore Discovery Centre. Embark on an exciting adventure through Singapore’s fascinating history. Learn more about our country and its people – and become closer to Singapore. Enjoy educational and meaningful time with your little explorers.

• When: August 3 to 30
• Where: Singapore Discovery Centre

My Home, My Singapore! DIY Photo Frame

Unleash your creativity and make your own photo frame. Decorate it with everything you love in Singapore. It’s going to be the best National Day gift ever!

• When: August 3-11
• Where: Playground

One Heartbeat! Music Performances

Take your seat, close your eyes, listen to amazing music, and feel the moment. Join yIN Harmony, Ageless Bridge, and others at SDC’c Playground to sing along and enjoy the unity.

• When: August 3, 4, 9-11
• Where: Playground

One Journey! Dramatized Interactive Storytelling

SDC’s dramatized interactive storytelling is an excellent way for your little ones to learn more about Singapore and its history. It’s going to be a fascinating journey for young adventurers with lions, the Swordfish Attack, incredible feats, and more.

• When: August 3,4, and 9
• Where: Playground

‘Wonderland’ Movie Screening

Enjoy a free movie screening at iWERKS Theatre. What’s on the screen now? Wonderland, a 2023 Singaporean drama film – an ideal option for this day.

• When: August 9-11
• Where: iWERKS Theatre

• More Details

National Day Celebrations @ National Museum of Singapore

Image Credit: Nhb.gov.sg

The National Museum of Singapore developed a fun-filled educational programme to enjoy National Day celebrations to the fullest. Craft activities, a National Day Scavenger Hunt, a National Day Colouring Competition, Outdoor Sustainable play, and many other kid-friendly activities will make Singapore’s birthday unforgettable. Be sure to catch a Drum Performance. Yes, colourful Inflatable Playgrounds are also guaranteed for little visitors. And this is just a tiny part of all the surprises the National Museum of Singapore has prepared for this Day.

• Where: National Museum Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
• When: August 9: 9:30 AM to 12 AM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free and paid activities
• More Details

National Day 2024 @ S.E.A. Aquarium

Why don’t you spend this significant day exploring Singapore’s incredible underwater world at the S.E.A. Aquarium? Moreover, it has prepared something special for all its friends. This weekend, on August 9-11, you can spectate a mind-blowing underwater display of the Singapore flag at the Open Ocean Habitat. We bet you’ll be impressed and inspired.

• Where: S.E.A. Aquarium, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269
• When: August 9-11: From 1:30 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Admission charge to S.E.A. Aquarium applies
• More Details

National Day Parade Festivities @ Pororo Park

Image Credit: Pororo Park Singapore via Facebook

Pororo Park Singapore welcomes all little Singaporeans and city guests to celebrate Singapore’s 59th National Day together. With an amazing show, a Meet-and-Greet session, balloon sculpting activities, cool tattoos, carnival games, and even a goodie bag for all kids, this day is going to be memorable. And the main thing is that Pororo Park has one of the city’s best spots to watch Fireworks – its exclusive outdoor private viewing terrace.

• Where: Pororo Park, Raffles Blvd, Marina Square, Singapore 039594
• When: August 9: 6 PM to 9 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price:
  • 1 Adult + 1 Child: $59 (Member)/$69 (Public)
  • 2 Adults + 2 Children: $115 (Member)/$125 (Public)
• Additional Ticket: $25 (Adult)/$50 (Child)
• More Details

National Day Specials @ Kiztopia

The Five-Nine Carnival, an outstanding stage performance, Singapore-themed games, fun activities, and delicious treats, of course – come and celebrate Singapore at Kiztopia with National Day Specials. Wear red and white clothes and participate in a bright carnival. Spend this special day with your family at Kiztopia!

• Where: Multiple locations
• When: August 9-11: From 11 AM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Admission charge to Kiztopia applies
• More Details

National Day Weekend @ Café Melba

It’s going to be an unforgettable National Day Weekend since Café Melba has prepared an exciting programme for all little ones to celebrate Singapore’s 59th. There will be fun kids’ activities, special localized food and drinks, live streaming of the National Day Parade, music, dance, and laughter – a lot of laughter!

• Where:
  • Goodman Arts Center⁠, 90 Goodman Rd, Singapore 439053
  • Medialpolis⁠, 1 Stars Avenue, #03-01, Singapore 138507
• When: August 9-11: From 10 AM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Around the World @ Crane

Image Credit: Wearecrane.com

We all know that Singapore appreciates diversity. After all, our world is so incredible and has so many beautiful things. That is why Crane invites all its friends to experience ‘Around the World’ shopping this weekend. Clothes, accessories, food, souvenirs – you’ll definitely find a present for this National Day for your family, friends, and for yourself, of course. By the way, the event is pet-friendly.

• Where: 281 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427535
• When: August 10 and 11: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Celebrate NDP with BYD!

If you want to fill this National Day with fun, exciting activities, tasty snacks, a good mood, and lots of surprises, come and celebrate it with the BYD Family at Southside Sentosa. Games for visitors of all ages, food trucks, NDP screening, and even more – that sounds like a great option for a family celebration, doesn’t it?

• Where: Southside Sentosa, 80 Siloso Road #01-01, Singapore 098969
• When: August 9: 4:30 PM to 10 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Happy Birthday, Singapore – The Beach Play Edition @ Goodman Arts Centre

All kids from 6 months to 4 years old are invited to join a beach-themed sensory play session by The Playmakers right at Goodman Arts Centre. Yes, you got it right. Beach party at Goodman Arts Centre! Put on your favourite beach attire – and bring your little ones to enjoy playing with sand, water, paints, beach-related tools, and more.

• Where: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Rd, Singapore 439053
• When: August 9 and 10: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• Age: Recommended for kids from 6 months to 4 years old
• Admission Price:
  • Child: $35
  • Adult: $15
• More Details

Otto’s Adventure @ KidsSTOP

Enjoy a fun and educational storytelling session at KidsSTOP. Join Otto the otter on an exciting journey along the Singapore River. Learn how to protect the river and keep waterways safe.

• Where: KidsSTOP Party Room, Science Centre Singapore, 21 Jurong Town Hall Rd, Singapore 609433
• When: August 3 to 25 (Saturday and Sunday); August 9 (Friday):
  • 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Admission charge to KidsSTOP applies
• More Details

Outdoor DIY Craft Workshops @ BreadTalk IHQ Mall

Visit BreadTalk IHQ Mall this weekend to enjoy hands-on craft sessions. Join the Macramé Workshop or the Embroidery Workshop – or participate in both. Create lovely masterpieces of art and celebrate Singapore! Besides, you can enjoy shopping at the Local Creators’ Bazaar and bouncing at the Inflatable Bouncy Castle.

• Where: BreadTalk IHQ, Tai Seng Street, Singapore 534013
• When:
  • Macramé Workshop: August 10 (5 PM and 5:45 PM)
  • Embroidery Workshop: August 11 (5 PM and 5:45 PM)
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: $10
• More Details

Paws Of Courage @ Singapore Botanic Gardens

Image Credit: Rafael Navarro via Google reviews

There is a special mission for you, your kids, and your fluffy friends. Get together, solve puzzles, complete challenges, earn coins – and save history’s bravest dogs from a villain. Spend the most precious time with your family.

• Where: Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road Singapore, Singapore 259569
• When: August 10: 8 AM to 1 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: From $75
• More Details

PLAYtime! 2024 BURP @ Esplanade Theatre Studio

Image Credit: Esplanade.com

Esplanade Theatre Studio offers an excellent chance for your little ones to step into the world of theatre with its wonderful tale called BURP. It tells the fascinating story of one man and his Incredible Sound Machine. While watching BURP, kids learn more about different sounds, as well as feelings and emotions associated with those sounds.

• Where: Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
• When: August 10 to 25
• Age: Recommended for children 3-6 years old
• Admission Price: $23
• More Details

Singapore Garden Festival 2024

To plunge into the world of beauty, get aesthetic pleasure, buy something special, and spend great time with your family, head to Suntec Singapore to participate in the Singapore Garden Festival. Its 9th edition will feature balcony garden displays, The Singapore Gardeners’ Cup, floristry demonstrations and workshops, and many other inspiring events.

• Where: Suntec Singapore, Levels 4 & 6, 3 Temasek Blvd, Singapore 038983
• When: August 3 to 11
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: From $4
• More Details

So Singapore! @ Crane

Image Credit: Wearecrane.com

Celebrate National Day 2024 with Crane, enjoy shopping, spend time in a friendly atmosphere, and support Singapore-based small businesses! Art, home décor, clothes for your little ones, accessories for you, and something for your pet – well, you’ll find everything you need and want here. Yes, you deserve all this!

• Where: Crane (OCBC Wisma Atria), 435 Orchard Road ##04-01, Singapore 238877
• When: August 9, 10, and 11: 11 AM to 7 PM
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

The Amazing Sarong – Batik Painting @ One Holland Village

Join Nora on her fascinating adventure. Enjoy an engaging storytelling session. Try the incredible art of batik painting and create your own beautiful designs. It will be a meaningful journey of culture, traditions, and art.

• Where: One Holland Village, 7 Holland Vlg Wy, #01-20, Singapore 275748
• When: August 10:
  • 10 AM to 10:45 AM (18 months – 3 years old)
  • 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM (3 years old – 6 years old)
• Age: Recommended for kids from 18 months to 6 years old
• Admission Price:
  • Child: $30
  • Adult: $10
• More Details

We hope you’ve got enough inspiration since National Day 2024 is going to be full of pride, happiness, and unforgettable moments for everyone.

Cover Image Credit: Activesgcircle.gov.sg