Singapore Gears Up for United 59th National Day Celebration!

By Natalie Yong on 30 May 2024

Singapore is gearing up for its 59th National Day on August 9, 2024, celebrating with a grand parade at the Padang and additional festivities at Marina Bay. This year's theme, "Together, As One United People," introduced by Brigadier-General Wilson Low, emphasizes unity and togetherness. The event will be particularly noteworthy as it marks the first National Day Parade for President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong in their new roles.

Photo from @mindefsg Instagram

The National Day Parade promises a spectacular show featuring pre-parade performances by students and local artists, the Red Lions parachute team, and the inaugural Total Defence 40 (TD40) Dynamic Defence Display. Enhanced multimedia and fireworks effects will provide an immersive 360-degree experience. Coordinated fireworks displays at the Padang and Adelphi will light up the night sky, making this National Day celebration unforgettable.

Beyond the main event, celebrations will extend to the Promontory at Marina Bay, co-organized with NTUC. Attendees can enjoy live performances, watch the NDP telecast, and view the TD40 display. For those unable to attend the main events, festivities continue on August 10 at five heartland locations across Singapore. These venues will host fireworks, live performances, carnival activities, and static displays from the Singapore Armed Forces, Civil Defence Force, and Police Force, co-organized with the People's Association.

Photo from Ministry of Defence Singapore (MINDEF)

Adding to the festive spirit is this year’s National Day Parade theme song, "Not Alone," composed and performed by Benjamin Kheng. The song aims to resonate with past NDP songs while promoting a message of acceptance and unity. The music video was shared by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on Facebook, adding to the excitement and anticipation.

Photo from Ministry of Defence Singapore (MINDEF)

Public engagement campaigns #GiveAsOneSG and #TogetherAsOneSG aim to foster volunteerism and community spirit. By using these hashtags on social media, participants have a chance to win NDP tickets. Supported by organizations like SG Cares, Singapore Red Cross, and the Ministry of Social and Family Development, these initiatives encourage everyone to come together and celebrate as one united people. More details about these campaigns and ticketing information will be available on the official NDP website and social media platforms in the coming weeks.