Aside from the much-anticipated grand parade, there’s another event Singaporeans are excited about on National Day: the fireworks display. A 20-minute visual extravaganza, it caps off a day of pride and revelry with a bang. And as the country celebrates its 54th year of independence this Friday (August 9), the spectacle is expected to be even more dazzling than the last. Here are six of the best viewing spots where you can catch the spectacle for free:
Bay East Garden @ Gardens by the Bay
This location offers stunning sweeping views of the fireworks with Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer as the foreground. After National Day, return to Gardens by the Bay the following day (August 10) for a special concert headlined by Singapore’s most esteemed artists including Dick Lee, Kit Chan, Rhimah Rahim, and Lee Fei Hui.
18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
Nearest MRT Station: Bayfront
Marina Barrage
On a normal day, this spot is popular among families who want to spend some quality time together. Come National Day, it gets especially packed with spectators hungry for a glimpse of the fireworks display. If you pick this location, be sure to come early to secure your spot. You may bring a picnic mat and some snacks to share with your family or group of friends.
8 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018951
Nearest MRT Station: Marina Bay
Esplanade Roof Terrace
Make your way to the top of the Esplanade to catch unparalleled vistas of Singapore’s cityscape. In the evening, be stunned as you watch the sky burst into color with the NDP fireworks show.
1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Nearest MRT Station: Esplanade/City Hall
The Lawn @ Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC)
A patch of green wedged in between The Sail and Marina Bay Financial Centre, The Lawn makes for a nice viewing location if you want to avoid heavy crowds.
8A Marina Blvd, Singapore 018984
Nearest MRT Station: Downtown
Jubilee Bridge
Opened on Singapore’s 50th birthday three years go, this footbridge is surprisingly wide and has a whopping capacity of 2,000 people. There are restaurants nearby, in case you want to grab a quick bite before the show starts.
1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Nearest MRT Station: Esplanade/City Hall
Helix Bridge
Helix Bridge is among the crowds’ favorite places to catch the fireworks display—thanks to its proximity to where the main festivities are set to take place. Another option is to head on over to the Benjamin Sheares Bridge, which treats you to an equally great view.
Bayfront Avenue
Nearest MRT Station: Promenade
