With this year marking 200 years since the founding of modern Singapore, 2019’s National Day Parade will be a very special event. If you haven’t got a ticket to the real thing, and you don’t want to just watch it on television, do the next best thing – go to one of the rehearsals! You can also take part in the heartland celebrations that are occurring on 10 August at Bishan, Geylang Serai, Jurong East, Punggol and Woodlands.
The actual NDP will take place outside the National Gallery at the Padang this year, moving from the Marina Bay location of last year. This is to reflect the Bicentennial of Singapore celebrations, and the fact that so many key events in the country’s history have taken place on that spot.
Take a peek at a preview
While many of the rehearsal dates for the NDP have already passed, there are still some opportunities for spectators to see previews of the parade, and of course the “real thing”.
- 13 July (National Education Show 2)
- 20 July (National Education Show 3)
- 27 July (NDP Preview 1)
- 3 August (NDP Preview 2)
- 9 August (NDP)
When to get there
Here are the anticipated timings of the National Day Parade:
5.50pm – 6pm: Red Lions free fall (though this is weather dependent, so be careful)
6.27pm – 6.30pm: The marching in of the contingents
6.35pm – 6.38pm: The marching in of the State Colour and Guard of Honour (GOH)
6.39pm: Arrival of Prime Minister
6.44pm: Arrival of President
6:45 pm – 6:46 pm: State flag flypast
6:46 pm: RSAF Bomb Burst
6.48pm – 6.51pm: 21 Gun Salute
6.56 pm – 6.57pm: Fire of Joy (Feu de Joie)
6.59 pm: Airbus A330 MRTT & F15s
7pm – 7.01pm: Parade march past
7:14 pm – 7:30 pm: Mobile column
8.14 pm – 8.20 pm: Fireworks finale
Fab fireworks!
The fireworks are expected to start at about 8.10pm on rehearsal nights, and a few minutes later on 9 August. Don’t miss our roundup of great places to see the fireworks for free!
For more helpful tips head to our Living in Singapore section.
NDP: Where to see the fireworks
Moving to Singapore: What you should know
A beginners’ guide to public transport in Singapore
