National Day Activities 2026: BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide

One of the most anticipated events of the year is almost here. This day is associated with freedom, the future, dreams — with independence. This day takes pride in our country and our people to the next level. Yes, we are talking about Singapore National Day 2026, and this year, it carries a very special energy. On 9 August 2026, the nation celebrates SG61 — 61 years of independence and 60 years since the National Pledge was first recited. A moment to reflect on how far Singapore has come, and to look boldly towards everything that lies ahead.

Singapore is pulling out all the stops to excite and amaze Singaporeans and guests of the city with spectacular events, unforgettable moments, and a full programme of National Day activities for kids and their grown-ups. The historic return of the National Day Parade to the National Stadium at Kallang after a decade away, an indoor drone light show, mind-blowing fireworks, songs, dances, concerts, community celebrations, and so much more — all of it coming together under the theme “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!” to remind us of who we are and inspire us to reach even further together.

As The Lion City gets ready to celebrate SG61 in style, we invite you to check out BusyKidd‘s Ultimate Guide: Kids & Family Singapore National Day Activities 2026.

How old is Singapore in 2026? What is the theme of Singapore National Day 2026? Where can I watch the NDP fireworks this year? Singapore National Day activities, NDP rehearsals, NDP tickets — let’s find it all out!

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Best Places And Restaurants to Watch NDP Fireworks, National Day Food.

Singapore National Day 2026

Sometimes called Singapore Independence Day, Singapore National Day 2026 is one of the most important and beloved Singapore public holidays. How old is Singapore this year? In 2026, the Little Red Dot celebrates 61 years of independence. The celebrations will culminate on 9 August 2026, when the National Day Parade (NDP) returns to the National Stadium at The Kallang after a decade, bringing Singaporeans together to celebrate the nation’s journey, achievements and future. The day will feature an exciting programme of performances, a spectacular parade and fireworks, with celebrations also taking place across Singapore.

• Theme:“Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!” The theme combines Singapore’s enduring spirit and aspirations to move forward with a call to do better for Singapore and Singaporeans, while showing care and concern for one another and the wider community.
• NDP: The National Day Parade 2026 will take place at the National Stadium on 9 August 2026, marking the parade’s return to the iconic venue after 10 years.
• Music: Instead of one official theme song, NDP 2026 features the “Go Beyond: NDP 2026” album, with original songs including “Giants” by weish, performed by Iman Fandi; “Sparkle” by Gareth Fernandez, Dru Chen, Bang Wenfu and Sikai Goh, performed by Gareth Fernandez and Dru Chen; and “You’ll Be Okay” by Jasmine Sokko and Josh Wei, performed by Jasmine Sokko.

Video Credit: NDPeeps via YouTube

• Logo: The Singapore National Day 2026 logo embodies the theme “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!” — a rallying call for Singaporeans to push further, dream bigger, and move forward together as one nation. The design celebrates 61 years of independence while honouring the 60th anniversary of the National Pledge, weaving together Singapore’s enduring values of unity, resilience, and progress.
• Celebrations: SG61 brings something truly historic — for the first time in a decade, the National Day Parade returns to the National Stadium at Kallang, shifting the celebration hub from Marina Bay to the wider Kallang precinct. Highlights include an indoor drone light show featuring over 300 drones, NDP’s largest-ever special effects presentation, the State Flag Flypast, and the Feu-de-Joie and Presidential Gun Salute. Public festivities around the Kallang precinct run daily from 25 July all the way to 9 August — and with Monday 10 August observed as a public holiday, families get a full three-day long weekend to celebrate.
• The Fireworks: Yes — the most-awaited part of Singapore’s National Day celebrations for kids is very much back for SG61, and this year the display launches from Kallang rather than Marina Bay. BusyKidd knows the best free spots to watch the fireworks this year — and we can’t wait to share them with you!

Singapore National Day Activities 2026

National Day Parade 2026 (SG61) @ National Stadium, Kallang

Image Credit: NDPeeps via Facebook

For the first time in a decade, the National Day Parade is making its comeback to the National Stadium at Kallang. The theme for SG61 is “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!”, celebrating 61 years of nation-building. Highlights include an indoor drone light show featuring over 300 drones, NDP’s largest-ever special effects presentation, the State Flag Flypast, and the Feu-de-Joie and Presidential Gun Salute. No parade ticket? The wider Kallang precinct can host up to 200,000 people across various celebration spaces, with public activities running from 25 July all the way through to 9 August — including music performances, the “Go Beyond” lighted display along Stadium Riverside Walk, and interactive activities and exhibition booths.

• When: NDP Previews 25 July and 1 August; National Day Parade 9 August 2026. Kallang precinct public activities daily 25 July – 9 August
• Where: National Stadium, 1 Stadium Drive, Singapore 397629
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free (precinct activities). Parade tickets via free public ballot at ndp.gov.sg
• More Details

NDP 2026 Fireworks

This evening, The Lion City’s sky will once again light up with dazzling colours, making everyone young and young-hearted feel the magic of Singapore’s birthday. With the parade moving to Kallang, the best free fireworks viewing spots have shifted too. The Kallang Basin waterfront and Stadium Riverside Walk are the top free vantage points this year since the display now launches from Kallang rather than Marina Bay. For families, Marina Barrage remains a wonderful open-grass alternative. Arrive early by 6 PM is recommended to secure a good spot.

BusyKidd knows the best free spots to watch the National Day Parade 2026 Fireworks in Singapore — hurry up to check them out. And if you’re dreaming of a special dinner while admiring the NDP 2026 fireworks, you’ll find all the best ideas in our National Day 2026 Food Guide: Dining Deals And Special Menus.

GetActive! Dance of the Nation 2026

Image Credit: Activesgcircle.gov.sg

Are you ready to get active and dance the day away? Feel the beat, move together, and become one with your people in this year’s Dance of the Nation. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the National Pledge alongside SG61, the dance brings Singaporeans of all ages and abilities together in one joyful, unified moment. A tutorial is available for everyone including an Adaptive Version so that every single person can join in. Everyone can dance. Everyone can celebrate Singapore.

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Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert 2026

This year’s Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert returns with “Seeds of Tomorrow” — a moving celebration of Singapore’s growth, resilience and our shared dreams for the future. Through the story of a single seed planted with hope and nurtured across generations, you’ll journey from roots to branches, from familiar memories to bold new dreams. Hosted by familiar Mediacorp faces alongside exciting emerging local talent, this is one of the most beloved free family evenings of the year.

• When: 2 August 2026, doors open 4:30 PM, concert starts 7:45 PM
• Where: The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay, 31 Marina Park, Singapore 019191
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

SG Science Fest / STEM Festival @ Science Centre Singapore

Image Credit: Science.edu.sg

Science Centre Singapore hosts the SG Science Fest as part of its SG61 programme across two event dates. Little ones can explore ocean-themed zones to learn more about Singapore’s maritime heritage, marine life, and the importance of combating ocean pollution, and bring home a personalised acrylic keychain with stickers collected at activity stations across the centre.

• When: 8 – 10 August 2026, 10 AM – 5 PM
• Where: Science Centre Singapore, 15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents; from $8 for others
• More Details

National Day Celebrations @ Singapore Oceanarium

Image Credit: Rwsentosa.com

Dive into SG61 at the Singapore Oceanarium with special National Day celebrations across the long weekend. With ocean-themed activities and marine encounters, it’s a brilliant way to combine patriotic fun with learning about Singapore’s rich connection to the sea.

• When: 8 – 10 August 2026
• Where: Singapore Oceanarium, Resorts World Sentosa
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Included with Singapore Oceanarium admission from $43
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National Day @ Pororo Park Singapore

Image Credit: Pororo Park SG via Facebook

Pororo Park Singapore welcomes all little ones to celebrate SG61 together with carnival games, a live NDP screening, mascot parades, and goodie bags for all kids. One of the most festive indoor options for families with young children — and one of the city’s best spots to watch the National Day fireworks from its exclusive outdoor private viewing terrace.

• When: 9 August 2026
• Where: Pororo Park, Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039594
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: From $28.60
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National Day Istana Open House

The Istana National Day Open House returns on 26 July 2026 with free entry for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, guided tours, interactive activities, a first-ever evening lawn concert, and a stamp rally challenge. Visitors can enjoy performances, family activities, and interactive booths, while also discovering the meaningful causes supported by the President’s Challenge. Note that the Main Building is not available for public visits this year due to ongoing restoration works, but the beautifully maintained grounds remain a wonderful destination.

• When: 26 July 2026
• Where: The Istana, Orchard Road, Singapore 238823
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents: Free. Other visitors: Adult $20, Child (4–12 years) $10
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National Museum of Singapore — Inclusive Family Day & SG61 Celebrations

The National Museum of Singapore spotlights Singapore’s myths, legends, and traditions for its Inclusive Family Day. Families can sit in for an interactive storytelling of the legend of Sang Nila Utama, catch vibrant performances, a community sing-along, and more. A standout is Voyage of Icons, a projection mapping work presented as part of Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis 2026, where the museum’s historic façade becomes a giant canvas tracing Singapore’s story across five chapters. On 9 August itself, the museum hosts its full National Day Celebrations with free admission for all.

• When: Inclusive Family Day 8 August 2026 from 10 AM; National Day Celebrations 9 August 2026
• Where: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis 2026 / Singapore Night Festival

The Singapore Night Festival and Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis 2026 transform the entire precinct into a glowing wonderland of light installations, projection mapping, and live performances running well beyond National Day weekend. Most events are free — a perfect family evening out that doubles as one big SG61 celebration.

• When: 1 August – 5 September 2026. Friday and Saturday 7:30 PM – midnight; Sunday to Thursday 7:30 PM – 11 PM
• Where: Various locations around Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Singapore Flyer — Street Eats Under the Stars & NDP Live Screening

The Singapore Flyer has a full SG61 programme for families. From 5 to 10 August, catch Street Eats Under the Stars — a festive outdoor food celebration along the Marina Bay waterfront. On 9 August, settle in at the Greek Theatre, a 521-square-metre amphitheatre, for a complimentary live screening of the National Day Parade 2026, with the preshow starting at 5:30 PM.

• When: Street Eats Under the Stars 5 – 10 August 2026; NDP Live Screening 9 August 2026 from 5:30 PM
• Where: Singapore Flyer, 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free for Street Eats and NDP Live Screening
• More Details

Sentosa GrillFest 2026

Fire up your National Day long weekend at Sentosa GrillFest — a sizzling outdoor celebration on Siloso Beach with live grilling, beachside food vendors, and a festive atmosphere the whole family will love. Running across selected Thursdays to Sundays from late July through mid-August, it’s the perfect excuse to head to the beach and celebrate SG61 with good food and good vibes.

• When: 23 July – 16 August 2026, selected Thursdays to Sundays
• Where: Siloso Beach, Sentosa
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free entry
• More Details

Hawker Wars @ Lau Pa Sat

One of Singapore’s most iconic hawker centres gets a National Day makeover with Hawker Wars — a fun celebration of local food culture and the spirit of friendly competition between Singapore’s best hawkers. Drop by during the activation week to taste, vote, and cheer on your favourites in the most deliciously Singaporean way to celebrate SG61.

• When: Campaign 30 July – 31 August 2026; Activations 7 – 15 August 2026
• Where: Lau Pa Sat, 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free entry
• More Details

SG61 Orchid Symphony @ Great World

Celebrate Singapore’s birthday surrounded by the beauty of orchids at SG61 Orchid Symphony at Great World. A stunning floral showcase timed perfectly to the National Day period — explore the displays, join hands-on workshops, and bring the little ones for a colourful and fragrant National Day outing.

• When: 1 – 10 August 2026
• Where: Great World, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, Singapore 237994
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free entry; charges apply for selected workshops and activities
• More Details

I Love SG Pop-Up @ Resorts World Sentosa

Head to Resorts World Sentosa for the I Love SG Pop-Up — a festive celebration of all things Singaporean with themed activities, local flavours, and interactive experiences spread across the resort. With selected activities free of charge, it’s a fun add-on to a family day out at Sentosa during the National Day long weekend.

• When: 30 July – 23 August 2026
• Where: Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Selected activities free; dining and attractions separately charged
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ArtsEverywhere@SBG: The Garden Sessions @ Singapore Botanic Gardens

Every Saturday in August, the Singapore Botanic Gardens comes alive with The Garden Sessions — a series of free outdoor performances and art events as part of the ArtsEverywhere programme. Spread a picnic mat under the trees, let the children run around, and enjoy live performances in one of Singapore’s most beautiful and beloved green spaces. A perfect low-key National Day weekend outing for families.

• When: 9, 16, 23 and 30 August 2026
• Where: Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

National Day Celebrations @ Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Mandai Wildlife Reserve pulls out all the stops for SG61 with two special events. On 8 August, Wild Day Out offers free entry alongside festive animal encounters and family activities. On 9 August, gather for the National Day Parade Watch Party and cheer on Singapore’s birthday together surrounded by wildlife. A wonderfully unique way to celebrate.

• When: Wild Day Out 8 August 2026; NDP Watch Party 9 August 2026
• Where: Mandai Wildlife Reserve, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free for Wild Day Out and NDP Watch Party
• More Details

National Day Celebrations @ Changi Airport and Jewel

Changi Airport and Jewel Changi Airport join in the SG61 celebrations with a month-long programme of festive activities, performances, SG61-themed displays, and special deals across the terminals and the mall. Most activities are free — making it a great option for families wanting to celebrate with the added wow factor of Singapore’s world-famous airport.

• When: 23 July – 31 August 2026
• Where: Changi Airport and Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Most activities free; some ticketed
• More Details

Makan by the Sea — National Day Dinner Buffet @ Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa

For a special National Day dinner the whole family will remember, head to Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa’s Private Beach for Makan by the Sea. Feast on local favourites at a beachside buffet as the sun sets over the Sentosa coastline — a beautiful and delicious way to cap off Singapore’s birthday in style.

• When: 9 August 2026
• Where: Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa, 101 Siloso Road, Sentosa, Singapore 098970
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: From $35++
• More Details

ActiveSG Celebrates! — Sport Carnivals

Over two weeks, Singaporeans of all ages and abilities can participate in island-wide activities including Youth@Play at Our Tampines Hub, Lion City Dance Convention at *SCAPE, Play Inclusive at Singapore EXPO, and ActiveSG Celebrates! Sport Carnivals held at five Sport Centres. These events offer learn-to-play workshops, sporting competitions and community activities for everyone, from children to seniors.

• When: Throughout August 2026
• Where: Various locations islandwide
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

SingNation! 2026 @ Capitol Singapore Outdoor Plaza

Back for its 7th edition, SingNation! returns for another round of lively National Day tunes. The one-day choir will consist of the talented members of Voices of Singapore and their invited family and friends, belting out hit after hit at the Capitol Singapore Outdoor Plaza. Entry is free and no registration is required — simply turn up and sing along in the spirit of SG61.

• When: 8 August 2026, 7 PM – 8 PM
• Where: Capitol Singapore Outdoor Plaza, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905
• Age: For all ages
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Lively concerts, dazzling light installations, family-friendly carnivals and heartwarming community celebrations — SG61 has something for every family across the island. The BusyKidd team will keep sharing the latest updates on National Day events and activities not to miss with your family. Happy 61st Birthday, Singapore!

Singapore National Day Activities In School

Singapore National Day is an excellent opportunity for school students to get together to learn more about significant milestones in our nation’s history, commemorate our heroes who fought for Singapore’s freedom, feel the importance of unity, and enjoy various fun Singapore National Day activities in school.

What are some of the ideas for nice and inspiring Singapore National Day activities in school? First of all, let’s wear red and white clothes for our nation’s birthday celebration! Or add some white and red elements or accessories to your today’s look. Another idea is to dress up like Singaporean icons. It’s time to unleash your creativity! Don’t forget to take many pictures!

The youngest students can colour the Singapore flag and even draw what they associate with Singapore. You can also craft Singapore-inspired crafts. By the way, why don’t you make beautiful Singapore National Day decorations and decorate your classroom? You can even organise a competition for the best Singapore National Day décor! Besides, all students and teachers can create many small crafts to put them together in one magnificent masterpiece of art.

You can bring some traditional Singaporean treats to school and share them with your classmates. Or you can even organise a cooking masterclass and cook traditional meals or some cute Singapore-dedicated dishes together.

Do you remember what the highlight of each Singapore National Day celebration is? The National Day Parade, of course? So, why don’t you arrange your own NDP right in your school?

Lively performances, a fun Singapore-themed Scavenger Hunt, thrilling quests, and other things to do beloved by students are all great ideas for Singapore National Day activities in school. Singing this year’s Singapore National Day song and dancing the Dance of the Nation have not been canceled as well!

Singapore National Day is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated PH in Singapore 2026. Many things will be ‘for the first time ever’ this year, and this cannot but impress. So, watch some NDP rehearsals, prepare your NDP tickets, learn the Singapore National Day song and Dance of the Nation, get enough inspiration – and let us make this celebration truly memorable!

We hope you have got enough inspiration since Singapore National Day 2026 is going to be full of pride, happiness, and unforgettable moments for everyone.

Happy Singapore National Day!

Cover Image Credit: Activesgcircle.gov.sg