The annual National Day Parade’s fireworks display to commemorate the nation’s birthday and to mark the end of the event 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 its viewers with a light and sound display that blankets the entire sky.
This year, for the first time in the Singapore’s National Day Parade history, fireworks will also be set off at Singapore River, particularly in front of the Asian Civilisations Museum, to commemorate the river’s significance. So if you didn’t get a chance to snag a ticket to the National Day Parade, you can still partake in this this dramatic, jaw-dropping spectacle. There are plenty of other options for fireworks enthusiasts who are on a budget, or if you simply prefer a more unique experience that doesn’t involve jostling with the crowd.
Whether you’re looking for a classy spot to wine and dine with a date along the river, or you prefer an entire weekend staycation with loved ones, we’ve got plenty of options to soak in the sights and sounds of the beautiful fireworks. From a meal at the stylish Overeasy Fullerton to a weekend of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, here are the best spots to catch the fireworks this National Day.
With unbeatable panoramic views of the Singapore River, this is the place to be as dusk falls on Aug 9 (make sure you request for a seat at the breezy outdoor terrace of this casual cafe). While waiting, tuck into its offerings of Western and local favourites, such as Pulled Pork Knuckle Burger, Pan-Roasted Chilli & Lime Salmon, Chilli Crab Spaghetti and Nasi Goreng. Don’t forget its range of sweet treats (we hear its Sticky Date Pudding is a crowd favourite) and wash that down with a glass of Rosé or red/white wine.
At #01-02, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555, tel: 6776 0777. For more information, visit www.theprivegroup.com.sg/index.php/prive-acm/about-us.html for more info.
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 such as the lamb rack, Tochigi wagyu and Japanese seabream.
At 52 Boat Quay, Level 5/6, Singapore 049841, tel: 6866 1933. For more information, visit http://www.braci.sg/.
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.
At 39 Boat Quay, Singapore 049828, tel: 6536 1571. Visit www.bqbar.com for more info.
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. Must-tries include the Lava Burger of wagyu beef stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese, the savoury Crab Cakes or piquant Salmon Ceviche.
At L1-84, Bay Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956, tel: 6688 7308. For more information, visit www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/le-noir.html.
Gather up, foodies! The Sampan – a three-storey bar and restaurant along the Boat Quay riverside – may just be the swankiest place to satisfy your gastronomic appetite while enjoying the fireworks from a perfect vantage point. As part of its special four-course menu (priced at $54++) for National Day, diners can personalise their meal by picking between two locally-inspired dishes for each course. Indulge in unique, locally inspired-dishes such as Lemak Chilli Chicken Kueh Pie Tee, Lamb Shank Tulang Merah and Pulut Hitam Pudding, all served against the stunning Singapore River backdrop. We say go for the al fresco option to get the full experience.
At 63 Boat Quay, Singapore 049851, tel: 6732 1698 / 1687. For more information, visit https://www.thesampan.sg
Won’t settle for anything less than panoramic views of the Marina Waterfront cityscape? Perched on the 43rd storey of the Ocean Financial Centre, Zafferano may just be the place for you. Celebrate the occasion with an indulgent four-course National Day Table D’hôte menu, featuring luscious creations such as the uniquely sweet raw red prawns from ‘Mazara’ coupled with warm ricotta, superfino Carnaroli Acquerello risotto from ‘Vercelli’ and quail ragout. This special menu is only available on Aug 9 at 7pm at $128++ per person (or $98++ per person for early bookings). Alternatively guests can simply kick back with a free-flow drink package of sparkling wine, beer, and house wines as they enjoy the view. This package is available from 7.30pm to 9pm on the day of the National Day Parade, as well as the two preceding Saturdays.
At Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, Level 43, Singapore 049315, tel: 6509 1488. For more information, visit zafferano.sg/highlights
Located at the ground floor of One Fullerton hotel, The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill emits an atas vibe, but is also laid-back enough for diners to feel cosy while dining. Those who choose to dine alfresco will enjoy the wonderful Marina Bay Waterfront view, so you’d get a good perspective of the fireworks. Dig into refined starters such as the New England Clam Chowder ($22) or Grilled Squid Salad ($22) before continuing your feast with hearty mains – we recommend a juicy The Pelican Lobster Burger ($68), or a classic Ribeye Steak ($58) that will surely hit the spot. There are also impressive sharing options such as the Grilled Seafood Platter ($158, serves two to three) which includes whole barramundi, baked mussels, squid and tiger prawns, as well as the Oysters & Prawns Platter ($89, serves two to three) if you want to bond with your family and friends over a meal.
At 1 Fullerton Road, #01-01, One Fullerton, Singapore 049213, tel: 6438 0400. For more information, visit https://www.thepelican.com.sg/
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 (right after taking a dozen Instagram-worthy snaps, of course). The “To-Die-For” Burger ($25) which incorporates a wagyu beef patty, potato buns, cheddar cheese and vegetables, as well as the Lobster Tater Tots ($16) off the restaurant’s supper menu are definitely not to be missed.The best thing about the restaurant’s Fullerton outlet? It 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.
At 1 Fullerton Rd, #01-06, Singapore 049213, tel: 6684 1453. For more information, visit https://www.overeasy.com.sg/
If you’re a lover of finer things in life, you’ll want to check into The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore before the fireworks go off. Located just minutes away from Gardens by the Bay, the Art Science Museum, the Singapore Flyer and other iconic locations, it makes sense that this luxury hotel offers some of the best views of the Marina Bay area. In fact, guests staying on weekends between July 4 and Aug 12 can opt for the National Day special, “Celebrate with Singapore” room package. Starting from $650 per night, the package is inclusive of overnight accommodation in a Grand Marina room, a scrumptious local heritage breakfast buffet at Colony, and even an exclusive Singapore-themed Ritz-Carlton lion beanie.
At Marina Bay, 7 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039799, tel: 6337 8888. For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/singapore/offers/celebrate-with-singapore
Pan Pacific Singapore is another amazing spot to view the fireworks, especially since the hotel is located only a stone’s throw away from the Padang. Of course, another reason is you get to enjoy the mesmerising view in air-conditioned luxurious comfort, thanks to its spacious rooms complete with balconies, access to the sprawling outdoor swimming pool and round-the-clock fitness centre and complimentary breakfast — which are included in its National Day Fireworks Package. Do take note that the offer is available only for bookings made before Aug 9, for stays over the fireworks display dates (July 6, 13, 20 and 27 and Aug 3 and 9).
At 7 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039595, tel: 6336 8111. For more information, visit https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/offers/national-day-fireworks-package.html
Got a big party with you on the big night? Opt for a table at Mr Stork at Andaz Singapore. Nestled at level 39 of the building, the rooftop bar not only provides 360-degree views of the city, but also has a lush tropical style complete with ten teepee huts that’s luxe and Insta-worthy.
At $500++, guests can reserve a table for 10, which is inclusive of a snack platter featuring locally-inspired bar grub (such as Salted Egg Calamari, Chicken Rice Risotto Balls and Chicken Satay) plus a choice of either two bottles of house spirits (750ml), four bottles of house wines or two bottles of Delamotte Magnum. Sounds like your party is all set.
At 5 Fraser Street Level 39, Andaz, Singapore 189354, tel: 6408 1255. For more information, visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/singapore/andaz-singapore/sinaz/dining
A great spot — but only for those who have no qualms about arriving early to chope a spot — you can consider is the top floor of The Esplanade. The lovely roof terrace has many seating areas and a largely unrestricted view of the fireworks – which makes it an extremely popular location for friends, couples and families alike. Those on a budget should definitely consider waiting it out at this garden, since access is free of charge for the public. Bring some food and wine and an umbrella and make a picnic out of it.
At 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981. For more information, visit http://www.esplanade.com/
Possibly the most popular spot in Singapore for leisurely activities such as kite-flying and picnicking, the spacious and picturesque lawn of the Marina Barrage is well-positioned for a splendid view of the fireworks from across the Marina Channel. Like the rooftop of Esplanade, you’ll have to bring your own mat to sit on, as well as some snacks and drinks. This spot in particular doesn’t have that many vendors and stores around the area too. However, access to this enormous field is completely free, which is always a win in our books.
At 8 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018951. For more information, visit https://www.pub.gov.sg/