This year, the nation celebrates its diamond jubilee with a spectacular birthday party in the works!

There’s just something magical about fireworks lighting up the night sky: the booming sounds, vibrant colours, and the electric buzz of a shared celebration. No wonder people are willing to brave the crowds just to be as close as possible to the action! If you didn’t manage to secure one of the coveted golden tickets to the National Day Parade (NDP) but still want front-row views of the spectacular display, here are some top spots to consider.

Fireworks Up Close and Personal

The Promontory / Lawn @ Marina BayThis might just be the worst-kept secret when it comes to catching the NDP fireworks. With unobstructed, front-row views and free public access, it’s consistently one of the top spots to soak in the spectacle. Naturally, that also means you’ll be sharing the space with thousands of others who had the same brilliant idea.

When NDP is held at the Padang, The Promontory becomes a prime vantage point for both the fireworks and the aerial fly-past, and this year promises to be no different.

Pro Tip: Head down early (by that we mean early afternoon) if you want to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront.

Address: 11 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018940

Directions: Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT17) or Raffles Place (NS26/EW14), then walk approximately 5–10 minutes to The Promontory.

 

Nearest car parks: Marina Bay Sands and Marina Square

Marina Barrage

With its wide, open lawn, Marina Barrage is a great alternative for those who prefer to avoid tightly packed crowds, though it’s still likely to draw plenty of people on National Day. Its elevated position offers a clear, sweeping view of the skyline and fireworks, making sure you don’t miss a moment of the action.

Address: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CE1/DT16) or Marina Bay (NS27/CE2), then walk or take Bus 400.

 

Nearest car park: Marina Barrage

Merlion Park

A tourist magnet for good reason, Merlion Park places you right in the heart of the action with bonus photo ops featuring the iconic Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.

Address: One Fullerton, Singapore 049213.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (NS26/EW14), Exit H, then a 5-minute walk.

 

Nearest car park: One Fullerton

Esplanade Waterfront

With its tree-lined promenade, the Esplanade Waterfront is a scenic and relaxed spot to enjoy the fireworks with friends and family. That said, like most popular viewing areas during NDP, it fills up fast, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot!

Address: 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC3) or City Hall (NS25/EW13), then walk through the underpass.

 

Nearest car park: Esplanade Mall and Marina Bay Financial Centre

Far From The Madding Crowd

Want a quieter experience? These spots offer a more peaceful atmosphere, though we can’t promise you’ll have them all to yourself!

The Meadow @ Gardens by the Bay

With space for up to 30,000 people, The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay offers plenty of room to spread out. While it may not provide the same prime views as Marina Barrage, it still offers a solid vantage point to catch the fireworks.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CE1/DT16), Exit B.

 

Nearest car park: Gardens by the Bay and Marina Barrage

Esplanade Roof Terrace

This open-air rooftop is a hidden gem for fireworks viewing. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the Esplanade grounds, the waterfront, Marina Bay Sands, and of course, the main event: the fireworks lighting up the sky.

Address: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC3) or City Hall (NS25/EW13), connected via underpass.

 

Nearest car park: Esplanade Mall and Marina Bay Financial Centre

Pinnacle@Duxton

You don’t need to own a million-dollar flat at this iconic estate to enjoy the view; just head up to the public skybridge for sweeping, panoramic sights across the island. With access capped at 150 visitors a day, it’s a far more peaceful way to catch the fireworks without the overwhelming crowds. While it may not offer the full Marina Bay spectacle, the elevated scenery more than makes up for it. Pack a small picnic and make an evening of it.

Address: 1G Cantonment Road, Singapore 085301.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW16/NE3/TE17), Exit G, then a 5-minute walk. Entrance fee is $6.

 

Nearest car park: Pinnacle@Duxton

Mount Faber Park

While this spot doesn’t offer front-row views of the fireworks, it does provide a clear glimpse of the larger displays. It’s definitely worth the hike (or a taxi ride if getting sweaty isn’t on your to-do list), and if you arrive earlier, you’ll also catch the exciting NDP flypast.

Address: 109 Mount Faber Road, Singapore 099203.

Directions: Nearest MRT: HarbourFront (NE1/CC29), then hike or take the cable car.

 

Nearest car park: Mount Faber

Kallang Trivista

A relatively new HDB estate, Kallang Trivista boasts sweeping views of the Singapore Flyer and Kallang River – lucky residents indeed! For the best experience, head up to the 30th floor to enjoy the fireworks display in all its glory.

Address: 8 Upper Boon Keng Road, Singapore 383008.

Directions: Nearest MRT: Kallang (EW10), then a 5-minute walk.

 

Nearest car park: Kallang Trivista

Look Up!

On 10 August, from 6pm to 6.30pm, look to the skies as four F-16 fighter jets soar across Singapore’s heartlands in a striking diamond formation. Each loop will be flown twice, giving everyone even more chances to witness this awe-inspiring aerial display!

Majulah Singapura!

No matter where you catch the fireworks, it’s all about enjoying the amazing celebration of Singapore’s big 60th birthday. Whether you prefer the electric buzz of Marina Bay or a quieter spot off the beaten path, there’s a place for everyone to join in the festivities. Just remember to get there early to grab a good viewing spot, and be prepared for bad weather! Pack enough food and water to last through the afternoon and evening, especially with the heat.

Staying hydrated and well-fed is key to enjoying the experience. And most importantly, wear your red and white, wave those flags proudly, and soak in the spirit of National Day — after all, there’s no better time to show some love for our little red dot. Majulah Singapura!