Singapore’s National Day

Singapore’s National Day is held each year on the 9th of August in memory of Singapore’s freedom from Malaysia in 1965.

During this day, there is a National Parade, a speech from the Prime Minister of Singapore and a huge fireworks display.

On National Day there is heaps of entertainment for spectators including sky diving, choir performances, school bands and presentations. Then a huge parade follows where locals and visitors can watch a multi-cultural parade featuring music, dancing as well as military personnel, police, schools and many businesses.

There are also displays of Singapore’s defensive capabilities by flyovers by the military. Afterwards, there is a massive fireworks display set against the stunning city skyline framed by the Marina Waterfront and singing of the National Anthem.

Please note that tickets for the parade cannot be bought. Instead, every citizen or permanent resident can ballot for up to six seats in May every year. Results are announced in June.

On the second Sunday following the National Day, a speech is issued by Singapore’s Prime Minister, which is called the National Day Rally. The rally has been a yearly occasion since 1966 and the Prime Minister utilises the rally to address the country on its key difficulties and its future prospects. It is comparable to the ‘State of the Union Address’ conveyed by the President of the United States.