The best places to catch NDP fireworks for free on National Day in Singapore
Every year, the NDP culminates with a stunning firework display. Watch the sky light up from these vantage points
End your year with a bang – literally. Whatever the occasion – whether it's New Year's Eve or the National Day Parade (NDP) – Singapore knows how to light the sky up with a dazzling display of fireworks.
This year, the NDP2020 is split into a day and evening show, kickstarting with a parade at the Padang, before closing with intimate music and dance performances at The Star Performing Arts Centre, and of course, fireworks. Besides lighting the Marina Bay, the fireworks are also being set off at more than 10 different locations across Singapore, so that everyone can catch 'em from their respective sweet digs. Watch this space for updates on the firework displays in the heartlands. In the meantime, get acquainted with the not-so-secret spots to catch the visual spectacle.
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Watch the fireworks for free
Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade
Soak in the picturesque views of the NDP fireworks by the riverside. There's no better way to enjoy the visual extravaganza than with a breath of fresh air – and other enthusiastic people looking forward to the dazzling display. Just remember to keep a minimum of 1-metre distance from each other.
Queen Elizabeth Walk
If you happen to be at the Esplanade Park, swing by Queen Elizabeth Walk. There are benches placed throughout this walkway where you can sit and admire the fireworks from afar. It's also a great spot for some history hunt as many historic sites are located nearby.
The Merlion
It's safe to say that the Merlion is the most iconic tourist attraction in Singapore. It is also the best spot for a perfect view of Marina Bay, especially at night. Find a cosy spot, enjoy the fireworks, and celebrate Singapore's independence day with none other than the Singapore mascot.
Stadium Riverside Walk @ Singapore Sports Hub
Not ready to brace the city crowd? You can get yourself a spot by the Stadium waterfront to catch the countdown fireworks without having to navigate through the crowd while social distancing. Despite being away from the city, the view from Stadium waterfront is just as good – you might even experience the Kallang wave while you’re at it.
Bay East Garden @ Gardens by the Bay
For panoramic views of the fireworks, flanked by Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer (which makes for a good photo opportunity), head to Bay East Garden. It's also accessible by car via Tanjong Rhu Road or across the bridge from Marina Barrage, so you don't have to worry about the crowds.
Helix Bridge and Benjamin Sheares Bridge
Two of the most popular places to view the fireworks are the Helix Bridge and the Benjamin Sheares Bridge. Both are conveniently positioned close to where previous years' NDP fireworks have been set off. If it's the same for this years', you best bet this spot gives a good view of the fireworks by the bay area.
The Lawn @ Marina Bay
Between The Sail and Marina Bay Financial Centre is a grass lawn where you can gather a comfortable distance away from the crowds. If all else fails, you can always snatch reflections of the fireworks from the buildings of MBFC.
Marina Barrage
Although it may be a distance away from the immediate action, the expansive lawn of Marina Barrage overlooks the city from across the Marina Channel. The views are slightly obstructed from its green roof, but you’ll get to see the lights against the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands with the business district in the background.
Esplanade Bridge and Jubilee Bridge
If there's human traffic from the Merlion Park to the Helix Bridge, the Esplanade Bridge makes an alternative spot for a worm's-eye view of the pyrotechnics display.
For a fee
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Welcome the new year with fireworks on one of Singapore’s tallest observation deck. Overlooking the Marina Bay, the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck lets you sit front row for the fireworks extravaganza that always takes place by the bay. Visitors might be compelled to take professional shots of the fireworks and the picturesque night view of the CBD, but MBS does prohibit professional camera equipment, camera’s and other accessories, to the deck. You can also check out the infinity pool, but no dipping please, that's for hotel guests only. A trip up here will cost $26 for adults, $23 for senior citizens and $20 for children.
Singapore Flyer
Marina Bay's giant, 42-storey, 165m observation wheel continues to pull the crowds in for a breathtaking, 360-degree view of the fireworks. Feast your eyes on the explosive visual treat from one of its 28 air-conditioned, UV-protected capsules. Note that this is available via reservations only, among other safety measures.
Smoke & Mirrors
In skyscraper-dense Singapore, rooftop bars with a view of the fireworks are no rarity. But when it’s perched on the Old Supreme Court Building, which currently houses the world's largest collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art. Sip on a cocktail while you feast your eyes on the fireworks.
LeVeL33
No prizes for guessing on which floor this bar and restaurant is perched. Billed as the world’s highest microbrewery, LeVeL33 gloriously overlooks the Marina Bay, and, thanks to the decor and service, is perhaps the most sophisticated place to quaff a beer while checking out the fireworks on National Day.
Hotels
Fireworks are best enjoyed from the privacy of your own space away from crowds, but the majority of us aren't blessed with a home that offers great views. The alternative? Plan a staycation and have a fireworks viewing party (for five and no more) instead. Hotels such as Marina Bay Sands, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, and The Fullerton Hotel Singapore have the best views – and are accepting bookings this National Day.
Gear up for NDP
