- SINGAPORE
NDP 2025 Fireworks Guide: Rehearsals, Heartland Highlights & Where To Watch For Free In Singapore!
No NDP Ticket? No Problem. Here’s How To Catch Singapore’s Most Spectacular Fireworks This August—Without A Seat At The Padang!
Singapore’s turning 60 this year, and the National Day Parade (NDP) 2025 is set to light up the sky like never before. While scoring a ticket to the actual parade at the Padang may be tough, there are still plenty of ways to soak in the festivities—especially if you’re here for the fireworks. From early rehearsals to heartland carnivals and skyline views, this guide shows you where and when to catch the action.
Dates to Bookmark: When Fireworks Will Light Up the Sky
The main fireworks display will take place on National Day, August 9, 2025—but if you’re eager to catch the pyrotechnics early (and avoid the main crowd), you can attend the rehearsal nights and preview shows happening in the weeks leading up to it.
Fireworks Schedule for NDP 2025:
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Rehearsals: Saturday, June 21 & June 28
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NE Shows: Saturday, July 5, 12 & 19
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Previews: Saturday, July 26 & August 2
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Main Event: Saturday, August 9
Timing Breakdown: When To Arrive For Fireworks
Not sure what time to head down? Based on previous years’ programmes, here’s a rough timeline to help you plan your evening:
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6:10pm – Red Lions parachute jump
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6:45pm – RSAF flypast with State Flag
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7:15pm – Dynamic defence and aerial displays
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7:30pm – Early fireworks bursts
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8:15pm – Main fireworks showcase and National Anthem
At recent rehearsals, fireworks were spotted at 7:35pm, 7:45pm, and again at 8:15pm. To grab a good viewing spot, aim to arrive by 7:00pm.
Beyond Marina Bay: Fireworks In The Heartlands
Even if you’re not heading downtown, you won’t miss out. On Sunday, August 10, the celebration continues with fireworks and festivities in the heartlands. Here are the full venue details:
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Yishun (open field beside the futsal arena)
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Punggol (open field next to One Punggol)
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Bukit Gombak (ActiveSG Stadium)
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Bishan (open field beside Junction 8)
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Geyland Serai (open field beside Wisma Geyland Serai)
Each site typically features live music, SAF/SCDF/SPF displays, funfair activities, and a community-style fireworks finale—ideal for families with young kids or anyone avoiding city crowds.
Front-Row Views: Best Spots To Watch NDP Fireworks Without a Ticket
Didn’t manage to snag a seat at the Padang? Don’t worry—Marina Bay transforms into an open-air amphitheatre on fireworks night. Here are the most popular fireworks viewing spots in Singapore:
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Marina Bay Promontory – Huge crowds but unbeatable, unobstructed views
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Helix Bridge – Great photo ops and close to the ArtScience Museum
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Marina Barrage – Best for family picnics and skyline backdrops
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Bay East Garden – Quieter and more intimate along the waterfront
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Esplanade Promenade – Breezy, central, and surrounded by food options
For full details, check out our complete guide below!
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MARINA BAY PROMONTORY
Unblocked Views With Festival Atmosphere At The Heart of It AllThe Marina Bay Promontory is always a favourite when it comes to watching National Day fireworks. With its sweeping, unobstructed views of the skyline and direct line of sight to the Padang, it’s where the action truly unfolds. You’ll also be surrounded by thousands of fellow Singaporeans, bringing an electrifying, communal buzz to the night. Come early to secure a prime spot along the waterfront promenade or the tiered seating area nearby. Pro tip: bring a foldable chair or mat, pack light, and don’t forget your patriotic gear for the full NDP experience.
Where: Marina Bay Promontory, 11 Marina Blvd, Singapore 018940
Nearest MRT: Downtown / Raffles Place -
HELIX BRIDGE
Iconic Structure With Front-Row Fireworks ViewsLocated just minutes from Marina Bay Sands, the Helix Bridge offers stunning vantage points of the fireworks display over the water. This spiralling pedestrian bridge is not only an architectural landmark, but also a prime spot for photographers and fireworks fans alike. While there’s no seating, the bridge’s central position puts you at the heart of the action, with the ArtScience Museum and CBD skyline creating a dramatic backdrop. Arrive early as this spot fills up fast.
Where Helix Bridge, Linking Marina Centre to Marina South, Singapore
Nearest MRT: Bayfront -
MARINA BARRAGE
Family-Friendly Picnic Spot With Skyline Sunset & Fireworks ViewsMarina Barrage is a classic go-to for a relaxed National Day celebration. This spacious rooftop green space is perfect for families or friends looking to have a picnic while enjoying both the sunset and fireworks show. Bring along a picnic mat and some local bites—or grab a ready-made picnic set—and get comfortable while the city skyline transforms into a glittering light show. With plenty of open space and panoramic views of Marina Bay, it’s one of the most wholesome ways to experience the festivities.
Where: Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951
Nearest MRT: Bayfront / Marina Bay -
BAY EAST GARDEN, GARDENS BY THE BAY
Tranquil Waterfront Views Away From the CrowdsTucked away from the crowds of the main Gardens by the Bay domes, Bay East Garden offers a more peaceful experience with equally breathtaking views. The garden runs along the waterfront and faces the Marina Bay skyline, making it a great spot for an intimate National Day evening. Grab a bench, bring some snacks, and enjoy the view of iconic buildings lighting up alongside the fireworks display. It’s also a favourite for joggers and photographers looking for open space and cityscape views.
Where Bay East Garden, Rhu Cross, Singapore
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Rhu -
ESPLANADE WATERFRONT PROMENADE
Cultural Hub With Gorgeous Views Across The BayEsplanade’s Waterfront Promenade offers low but scenic views across Marina Bay towards the Padang and ArtScience Museum. The breezy walkway is lined with cafes and public art, so you can enjoy pre-show dining before settling into a good spot. Expect it to get busy, especially near the waterfront railings, so head down early to claim your space. It’s an excellent pick if you’re after a balanced atmosphere—close enough to the action, but not as hectic as the Promontory.
Where Esplanade Waterfront Promenade, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Nearest MRT: Esplanade / City Hall -
MARINA BAY SANDS SKYPARK
Bird’s-Eye Fireworks View 56 Storeys Above GroundWant to escape the crowds and enjoy a luxurious fireworks viewing experience? The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers one of the best aerial perspectives in town. From 56 floors up, you’ll see the entire Marina Bay, Padang, and surrounding cityscape come alive in a blaze of colour. Access is limited to hotel guests and ticket holders, so book early if you're planning a splurge. For the ultimate experience, pair it with dinner at one of the SkyPark restaurants.
Where Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
Nearest MRT: Bayfront -
SINGAPORE FLYER
Romantic Sky-High Views With Champagne & FireworksFor a special National Day treat, book a Premium Champagne Experience on the Singapore Flyer. This slow, 30-minute rotation offers breathtaking 360° views of Marina Bay—and the fireworks—right from the sky. The ride includes a complimentary glass of bubbly and air-conditioned comfort, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a quieter, elevated experience. As fireworks light up the skyline, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views from your own private capsule.
Where: Singapore Flyer, 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039803
Nearest MRT: Promenade -
HIGH STREET CENTRE CAR PARK
Rooftop Vantage With Heritage Views & Low CrowdsA little-known favourite among locals, the open-air car park at High Street Centre offers surprisingly great views of the fireworks, especially with landmarks like the National Gallery and Supreme Court in the foreground. Head to the fifth floor, where you’ll join a mix of savvy photographers and casual fireworks fans. It's quieter than Marina Bay’s main spots, so if you prefer a more low-key vibe without sacrificing views, this is your spot.
Where: High Street Centre Car Park, 1 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179094
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay / City HallImage Credit: @raskinbobbies
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