Looking for exciting things to do in Singapore this weekend? The National Day long weekend is your cue to put on something red, call your favourite people and soak up the celebratory buzz around the island. From fireworks-worthy outings to feel-good Singapore-themed activities, there’s plenty to fill those three glorious days off. So, whether you’re planning an outing with the kids, catching up with friends or simply making the most of the public holiday, we have rounded up the best ways to celebrate Singapore’s 61st birthday!
National Day-themed things to do in Singapore this weekend (7 – 9 August 2026)
1. Celebrate at the National Day Parade 2026
9 August 2026
Of course, no National Day weekend would be complete without the National Day Parade 2026. This year’s NDP festivities return to the National Stadium with the theme Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!. Expect exciting performances, ceremonial highlights and the much-anticipated fireworks finale. Whatever your plans, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Singapore this weekend. If you were lucky enough to secure tickets, arrive early and wear something red and white.
The show will feature more than 2,600 performers and 36 artistes, along with 18 colourful floats for the People’s Parade. Things get even more epic this year with NDP’s first-ever indoor drone display, featuring 300 drones flying alongside professional aerialists. And if you think that’s already extravagant, wait till you see the moving aerial cubes, projection mapping and the rest of the 170 special-effects systems. You’ll also become part of the show with the LED wristbands that will turn the stands into one giant, synchronised light display. Talk about going big for SG61!
Admission: Free (allocated by ballot)
Location: National Stadium, 1 Stadium Drive, S(397629)
Showtimes:
Gates open: 4.30pm
Red Lions jump: 6.10pm
State Flag flypast: 6.45pm
21st Presidential Gun Salute: 6.50pm
“Feu de Joie” Fire of Joy: 7pm
Defence display: 7.15pm
Short fireworks: 7.40pm
Finale fireworks: 8.15pm
*All timings are approximate and subject to change.
2. Watch the National Day fireworks around Kallang Basin
9 August 2026
Kallang Basin is the place to be for the big National Day finale. Bring a picnic mat, find a waterfront spot and keep your eyes on the sky for the fireworks. The full display is expected on Sunday, 9 August, with shorter bursts from around 7.40pm while the main finale should begin from approximately 8.15pm. Arrive early, especially if you want a clearer waterfront view!
For more viewing points and planning tips, check out our guide on where to watch the NDP fireworks this year!
Admission: Free
Location: Various viewpoints
Fireworks time:
Short fireworks: 7.40pm
Finale fireworks: 8.15pm
3. Catch local acts at Majulah Mess
7 August – 9 August 2026
Make a detour to Dempsey Road for Majulah Mess. Swap the parade crowds for a feel-good evening at The Pantry and let the local beats add a lively soundtrack to your National Day weekend. This afternoon-to-night gathering is a delightfully rojak celebration across two stages, featuring five local collectives: 5210PM, Secret Pals, Revision Music, Sivilian Affairs and Super Enjoy. It’s perfect if you’re looking to celebrate National Day with a little more groove and kampong spirit. Keep an eye out for the event’s latest programme before heading down!
Admission: Varies by activity
Location: The Pantry, 16A Dempsey Road, S(247695)
Hours: 3pm – 10.30pm
4. Celebrate National Day at the National Museum of Singapore
1 August – 12 August 2026
For a National Day celebration with a dose of culture, head to the National Museum of Singapore. The museum’s National Day Open House explores the myths, legends and everyday stories that have shaped Singapore. You’ll have a full day of family-friendly fun that includes crafts, performances, and various activities that invite visitors of all ages to see familiar places and traditions in a new light.
On 9 August, you can also catch a live telecast of the parade at the museum. After dark, stay for Voyage of Icons, a free projection-mapping show that lights up the museum facade.
Admission: Free and ticketed activities
Location: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, S(178897)
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm
5. Sing along to the ‘Home’ Light & Music Showcase at Jewel
1 August – 31 August 2026
If you’re like me, you can’t escape the urge to sing when Home starts playing. So why fight it? Jewel Changi Airport’s Rain Vortex is once again lit up for a National Day Light & Music Showcase set to Kit Chan’s beloved classic. It’s the perfect air-conditioned stop for families, tourists and anyone who loves a dramatic waterfall moment. Catch an evening show, then explore the shops or settle in for supper nearby.
Admission: Free
Location: Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, S(819666)
Showtimes: 8pm, 9pm and 10pm on weekends
6. Snap National Day-themed Sanrio photos at Marina Square
17 July 2026 – 16 August 2026
Hello Kitty and friends are celebrating Singapore’s birthday with a local twist at Marina Square. Pop by the Singapore-inspired photo stations! For Sanrio fans, you can also browse exclusive collectibles and character merchandise at the retail pop-up. It’s one of the cutest things to do in Singapore this weekend, especially for families and kawaii enthusiasts planning a Marina Bay day out.
Admission: Free
Location: Marina Square, 6 Raffles Boulevard, S(039594)
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 10pm
7. Join a ‘Little Red Dot’ storytelling session at Gateway Kids Club
Selected August dates
Let your little ones discover Singapore through stories at Gateway Theatre’s Gateway Kids Club’s August programme. The Little Red Dot theme explores tales about local legends, familiar traditions and the things that make Singapore home. Each session is designed for children aged 3 to 7, and includes storytelling, art activities and play. Registration opens two weeks before each session, so make sure to check availability before heading down.
Admission: Free (registration required)
Location: Gateway Theatre, 3615 Jalan Bukit Merah, S(159461)
Session hours: 10am and 11am
8. See Singapore through Tan Lip Seng’s colourful photographs
8 August – 27 September 2026
Relive Singapore’s past through the vivid photographs of the late Tan Lip Seng at Objectifs – Centre for Photography and Film. A Life in Colour celebrates his six-decade legacy, from quiet everyday scenes to changing city landscapes. This exhibition is one of the loveliest free things to do in Singapore for photography fans, history lovers and anyone who wants to spend a slower afternoon in town.
Admission: Free
Location: Objectifs – Centre for Photography and Film, 155 Middle Road, S(188977)
Opening hours: Tue – Sun, 12pm – 7pm
9. Party to 2000s hits at the Flashback National Day Party
9 August 2026
Ready to party like it’s the 2000s? The Flashback National Day Party takes over Hard Rock Cafe Singapore with nostalgic throwbacks, local SG hits and plenty of red-and-white spirit. Dress to match the National Day mood, call up your kakis and get ready for a late-night singalong with a Y2K spin that goes beyond your usual Home rendition.
Admission: $23 – $32
Location: Hard Rock Cafe Singapore, 50 Cuscaden Road, #02-01 HPL House, S(249724)
Opening hours: 10.30pm – 3am
Other fun things to do in Singapore this National Day weekend: Concerts, shows & exhibitions
10. Explore glowing installations at Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis
1 August – 5 September 2026
Skip the usual post-dinner cafe crawl and take an after-dark walk through the Bras Basah.Bugis precinct instead. When the sun goes down, the Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis transforms the precinct into an illuminated trail. Wander through five light and digital installations inspired by Singapore’s local folklore and traditions. The glowing storybook scenes are the perfect backdrop for a nighttime stroll with friends. There are a lot of photo ops to explore, so slip on comfy shoes and take your time hopping between each spot.
Admission fee: Free
Locations:
Artsplace @ Waterloo Centre
Reflection Pool @ Bras Basah MRT Station
Stamford Place
Stamford Walkway
National Museum of Singapore (until 12 August only!)
Opening hours:
Fri – Sat: 7.30pm – 12am
Sun – Thu: 7.30pm – 11pm
11. Feast on beachside bites at Sentosa GrillFest
Now until 16 August 2026
Come hungry because Sentosa GrillFest is serving smoky, sizzling bites by Siloso Beach. With 42 vendors across five zones, you won’t run out of new food to try! Your taste buds will be in heaven with endless options from local grilled favourites to international delights. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday this weekend, so it’s perfect for a sunset dinner plan.
Admission fee: Free entry; food prices vary
Address: Siloso Beach, Sentosa, S(099538)
Opening hours: 4pm – 10.30pm
12. Sip unlimited coffee at Weekend Brew Club
8 August – 9 August 2026
If you love kopi just as much as I do, you can’t miss the Weekend Brew Club. This roving heartland pop-up combines unlimited coffee with nostalgic games, workshops and even DJ sets. And this weekend, they will be holding a special National Day edition in Marsiling! Entry is free, so bring your friends along and enjoy the festive vibes without spending a cent. But, if you want unlimited refills from the coffee buffet (I sure do), you’ll need a ticket. Online tickets have already been fully redeemed, but a very limited number of passes may be available for purchase at the event, so head down early if you are hoping to snag one.
Admission fee: Free entry; coffee buffet tickets required
Address: Blk 20 Marsiling Lane, S(730020)
Opening hours: 9am – 3pm
13. Admire LEGO Botanicals at Jewel Changi Airport
Now until 30 August 2026
Flowers that never wilt? Yes, please. Jewel Changi Airport is blooming with larger-than-life LEGO Botanicals creations made from more than 800,000 bricks. It’s one of the most spectacular things to do in Singapore this weekend for LEGO fans, budding photographers and families looking for an indoor outing. Don’t miss the giant LEGO roses near the Rain Vortex!
Admission fee: Free displays; Canopy Park charges apply
Address: Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, S(819666)
Opening hours:
Mon – Thu: 10am – 9pm
Fri – Sun: 10am – 10pm
14. Race through motorsport history at the F1 Exhibition Singapore
23 July – 18 October 2026
Start your engines! The Formula 1 Exhibition makes its Asian debut in Singapore at Gardens by the Bay. Your jaw will drop at the sight of the iconic cars, race suits, helmets and immersive displays spanning more than 75 years of F1 history. For the die-hard fans out there who live and breathe motorsport, you’ll want to linger over every detail and story on display. If you’re a casual viewer who’s just looking for unique weekend activities in Singapore, buckle up too! You don’t need to know every driver on the grid to enjoy this seven-room ride through F1 history.
Admission fee: From $29
Address: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, S(018953)
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 8pm
15. Rescue villagers at the Minecraft Experience in Mandai
Now until 13 September 2026
Put your Minecraft skills to the test at Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This real-life quest sends you through eight themed rooms as you work together to save a village from a zombie attack. Armed with an interactive Orb that lights up and vibrates as you play, you will mine for resources, battle hostile mobs in a mineshaft arcade and build your way out of an escape-room challenge. You don’t need to be a seasoned player to enjoy it as the experience is designed for first-timers looking for fun weekend activities in Singapore. Still, huge Minecraft fans will get a real kick out of seeing the familiar blocks, biomes and creatures brought off-screen and into the real world.
Admission fee: $40 for children; $46 for adults
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, S(729826)
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri: 11am – 7pm
Fri – Sat: 10am – 8pm
16. Feel the magic at the Disney Garden of Wonder
Now until 14 March 2027
Here’s one for the kids (and kids at heart)! The Disney Garden of Wonder at Floral Fantasy is here to stay until 14 March 2027, so you’ve got plenty of time to come back again and again. You’ll love strolling through the garden, and seeing familiar faces from your favourite Disney films. Characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Princess Jasmine and Rajah, Belle and the Beast, and more bring the garden to life with their magical tales and playful scenes. It’s a must-go if you grew up with these classic fairytales!
Admission fee: $12
Address: Floral Fantasy, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, S(018953)
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 9pm
17. Tour a working fire station with the kids
8 August 2026
For a weekend that’s equal parts fun and educational, bring the kids to an SCDF Fire Station Open House. If you’ve got a little one who dreams of becoming a firefighter one day, this would be a dream come true. They can see emergency vehicles up close, learn how firefighters use their gear and pose for a photo with the real deal. Most participating fire stations run free guided tours on Saturday mornings, though it’s best to book ahead, especially for larger groups. It’s one of those free things to do in Singapore that transcends a typical weekend outing, leaving kids with a new appreciation for the heroes who keep us safe.
Admission fee: Free
Location: Selected SCDF fire stations
Opening hours: 9am – 9.50am or 10am – 10.50am
18. Watch a family-friendly film by the beach
Every Saturday and Sunday until 30 August 2026
Trade the cinema for an evening by the sea at Palawan Kidz City Roof Garden. Sentosa’s Movies by the Beach gives families a reason to stay out after sunset, with free, family-friendly film screenings beneath the stars. No booking is needed, but arrive early, bring snacks and check the film line-up before heading over. It only runs until 30 August, so don’t miss it!
Admission fee: Free
Address: Palawan Kidz City Roof Garden, 54 Palawan Beach Walk, S(098233)
Screening schedule: 5pm / 5.30pm and 7.30pm / 8pm
19. Catch the Borealis Northern Lights at Supertree Grove
Mondays, Saturdays and Sundays
You don’t need a flight to Scandinavia to see an aurora-like sky. Supertree Grove’s Borealis recreates the Northern Lights with light, cloud particles and a dreamy soundtrack among the Supertrees. It’s a brilliant free evening plan for the weekend after exploring Gardens by the Bay. Do note that the show will be cancelled if it rains, so fingers crossed!
Admission fee: Free
Address: Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, S(018953)
Opening hours: 8pm – 8.30pm
20. Get curious with the Flesh and Bones: The Art of Anatomy
Now until 16 August 2026
This one isn’t your typical museum visit: Flesh and Bones goes deeper (literally and figuratively). The exhibition explores how the human body has been studied, represented, and understood across time, blending science with art in a way that’s both fascinating and slightly eerie. Expect everything from anatomical specimens to detailed artworks and immersive installations. It’s one of those exhibitions you’ll probably end up discussing over dinner after, if you still have the stomach for it!
Admission fee: From ~S$19.50
Address: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, S(018974)
Opening hours: 10am – 7pm (till 9pm on Fri and Sat)
No more dilemma when it comes to things to do in Singapore this weekend
That is your National Day weekend sorted! If you’re still looking for things to do in Singapore this weekend, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate SG61! So go forth and make the most of it. Try something new, soak in the local culture, and most importantly, have a blast!
Planning to catch the big finale? Check out where to watch the NDP fireworks before you go. Prefer a cosy evening in? Dive into our binge-worthy list of the best Chinese dramas to watch at home. Discover more free things to do in Singapore for your next budget-friendly day out. And for those with little ones, don’t miss our roundup of kids’ activities in Singapore. Happy weekend, and have fun out there!
This article was updated on 5 August 2026. Additional research done by Francine DC.
