We might be biased but we think that Singapore puts on the most spectacular fireworks display every New Year’s Eve.
And, even though we get fireworks at other times of the year too, we must admit that we can’t get enough of them. Who can blame us though, when they’re such beautiful, colourful shows that fill up the night sky with vibrant colours and make our jaws drop each time.
They’re great to watch on TV but it’s simply spectacular to catch the fireworks display in person. Sure, you could book a hotel room in the Marina Bay area or make a reservation at one of the bars or clubs that will give you panoramic views but why spend money when you can do this for free? Here’s our guide to where you can go to catch the fireworks for free – make sure to ‘chope’ your spot early.
You’ll be right in the thick of it here – if you manage to squeeze among the crowds and ‘tahan’ till midnight. Probably the most popular spot to catch the fireworks, you’ll need to be physically and mentally prepared to attempt this trip but we guarantee you’ll be rewarded with stunning sights of the fireworks.
If you can’t get a good vantage point at the MBS Event Plaza, go past the ArtScience Museum, to the Helix Bridge. It’s a popular spot with photographers – because of the unobstructed view – so go really early and park yourself here if photography is your main aim of the night.
If you can’t find a spot here either, try the Benjamin Sheares Bridge, which is a bit further back but promises good views too.
This is the area in front of Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, and is across Merlion Park and next to The Float @ Marina Bay, which is a ticketed area. While it’s usually quieter on most days, we’re very sure that the area will be brimming with crowds on New Year’s Eve, so if you’re planning to head over on the day itself, we recommend going a little earlier to secure your spot.
This park gives you front-row seats to the action and you’ll have the beautiful Marina Bay Sands as the backdrop to the fireworks. Jubilee Bridge next to it is also a coveted area. Because of this, Merlion Park gets extremely crowded so only embark on this trip if you have the tenacity to last in a crowded place for hours as you’ll have to get here very early in order to secure a spot with the best views.
It’s a bit detached from where the main action is taking place but you’ll get a panoramic view of the Singapore skyline from here. Plus, the vast grassy area means you can lie back and watch the sky burst into a myriad of colours. Sounds like a great way to ring in the new year, doesn’t it?
Conveniently situated just above Downtown MRT station, this grass patch isn’t huge so you might need to go super early to stake your claim. Even if you don’t get a good spot to see the actual fireworks, you’ll be able to catch their reflections in the buildings at Marina Bay Financial Centre, situated just next to The Lawn.
Located at Gardens by the Bay, you’ll get glorious views of the Marina Bay skyline here. It also doesn’t get as crowded as the immediate areas around Marina Bay so there’s a chance you’ll get some breathing space as you wait for midnight. Bonus: it’ll be easier to get out of this area too, once the celebrations are over.
If you want to catch the fireworks in a quieter place, the Stadium Waterfront area at Kallang Wave Mall is where you should go. The area has wonderful views of the city skyline plus it’s near the water too so the colourful fireworks will be a dazzling addition to an already-superb view.