The annual National Day Parade’s fireworks display is usually a grand, spectacular extravaganza that’s a sight to behold. Typically going on for several minutes, organisers usually pull out all the stops to impress their viewers with a light and sound display that blankets the entire sky.
But if you didn’t manage to snag tickets to the highly anticipated show at the floating platform, fret not. There are still many ways for you to catch the spectacle this year on the 9th of August.
Whether you’re looking for a classy restaurant to wine and dine with your date along the river, or you prefer an entire weekend staycation with your loved ones, we’ve got plenty of options to soak in the sights and sounds of the beautiful fireworks.
Enjoy prime views of the fireworks at the Merlion Park. The Jubilee Bridge directly overlooks the open field where the main fireworks will illuminate the sky. This vantage point guarantees clear and uninterrupted sightlines not only to the dazzling displays but also to the magnificent city skyline.
Can’t watch the show at the Padang? You can have the next best thing and catch the show over at the Helix Bridge instead. It’s perfect, especially if you’re planning to take a stroll after having a hearty dinner, or even if you’re just around the area.
And while it is the closest thing to the event itself, you also have to remember that there are many like-minded individuals who will be watching the fireworks in that area as well, so don’t be surprised if you do find yourself jostling with the large crowd on the day itself.
Another hotspot that many will flock to on National Day will be Marina Barrage itself. Here, you can have your romantic picnic with your partner and watch the sunset and the fireworks as well. Of course, only if the weather permits.
Perched on the top storeys of a restored heritage shophouse at Boat Quay along the Singapore River, this charming one Michelin star restaurant-bar is an idyllic hideaway from the hustle and bustle below, while still offering the best sweeping views of the river and fireworks show. Opened by famed Chef-Restaurateur Beppe De Vito, the casual-luxe open-kitchen restaurant is where you’d get modern Italian cuisine made with the freshest ingredients. But it’s the 30-seater rooftop bar that’s where the action’s at, so make sure you make reservations for post-dinner drinks (expect interesting twists to classic cocktails) there — but not before you indulge in some sumptuous mains.
For something unpretentious but with an atmosphere that’s surely lively and boisterous, head to BQ Bar and make sure to book a seat at its al fresco waterfront area for a scenic view of the show. The lounge-style pub-club hybrid spot has been a popular choice with the after-work crowd and tourists alike, and is known for its Asian-influenced grub, such as wrapped kebabs, naan pizzas of various flavours and tandoor options. A whole range of bar bites and tipples are available too, from cocktails to beer buckets to wine and bubbly. For a real party, get yourself some group shots and shooters with your pals and toast to the occasion.
Get front-row seats to the fireworks display at the Singapore River when you chill at this luxe and elegant waterfront bar that’s located along the promenade of the Marina Bay Sands. The space, which has accents of wood, marble and touches of gold, is cosy and comfortable, with a variety of Western fare and signature cocktails to fill your tummies as you wait for the spectacle to erupt before your eyes.
Won’t settle for anything less than panoramic views of the cityscape? Perched on the 43rd storey of the Ocean Financial Centre, Altro Zafferano may just be the place for you.
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Popular for its classic American diner aesthetic, Overeasy is the go-to place to feast on delectable dishes such as smoked corndogs, juicy burgers and decadent milkshakes. What’s more, it also offers alfresco seating that gives you a stunning view of the Marina Bay skyline. So make that reservation quick, we bet there’s going to be quite the crowd.
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Marina Bay Sands hotel. Offering the best spots in the city to catch the fireworks, guests can book a room so they can watch the NDP show on TV and catch the live fireworks display right outside their window on National Day itself.
Speaking of Marina Bay Sands, if you didn’t manage to book a hotel room for the day itself, you might want to consider reserving a table over at Ce La Vi, located atop MBS. Moreover, the restaurant will also be serving some local cuisines with delicious shareable platters like the Classic BBQ Platter ($150++) or the Surf & Turf Platter ($200 ++) on National Day itself. Aside from that, you can also indulge in the live food stations featuring must-haves like the Satays, Tutu Kuehs and Muah Chee, while you anticipate the magnificent firework displays later in the evening.