Singapore’s 60th birthday is just around the corner, and as the nation gears up to celebrate, public interest in all things National Day surges.
Every year, questions spike around topics like ERP charges, where to watch the fireworks, and how to redeem the NDP funpacks.
We’ve got the answers to some of your burning questions right here:
1. Is ERP free on National Day?
This question always spikes every year before August 9—but spoiler alert: ERP charges typically remain.
While ERP charges are often reduced or waived on certain public holidays, including Sundays, and the eve of major holidays, National Day is not one of the holidays where ERP is usually free.
2. Are there road closures on National Day?
To facilitate the NDP event, selected roads and lanes in the Marina Bay area will be closed to vehicular traffic on Aug 9 and 10.
If you’re not driving or ride-hailing, it’s worth noting that certain entrances and exits of MRT stations around the Marina Bay area will also be closed to regulate crowd flow. In the event of overcrowding, trains may bypass affected stations, such as Bayfront MRT station.
3. Where can I collect the NDP funpack?
The annual NDP funpack is a coveted item, but who exactly can get one, and where can they actually redeem it?
The NDP funpack typically can be redeemed by ticket holders, National Servicemen, and parade volunteers. According to the NDP website, this year’s funpack, featuring original artworks by artists with disabilities, will be distributed at National Education Shows and NDP Preview Shows.
If you haven’t collected them at these events, you’ll also be able to receive your NDP Pack on-site if you’ve registered to visit any of the five Heartland Celebration sites or the various Bay Celebration sites. Participants at Pledge Events will be eligible for on-the-spot collection as well.
4. Can I still get the NDP tickets?
After the ballot closes, hope often lingers—but for NDP 2025, if you haven’t participated in the ballot, it means you can’t.
NDP tickets are distributed for free every year through a balloting system on Singpass.
Reselling tickets is strictly prohibited, and authorities take action against anyone caught scalping or using tickets fraudulently. Be wary, though—since July 1, at least five cases of scams involving the sale of NDP 2025 tickets have been reported.
5. Where to buy the Singapore flag last minute?
Somehow, people remember only a few days before.
If you still haven’t purchased your flag, you can find them at major supermarkets, convenience stores, and shopping malls. Street vendors and pop-up stalls near neighbourhoods and event areas also stock flags in the days leading up to August 9.
6. Where to watch NDP fireworks?
Didn’t manage to snag a ticket to the National Day Parade on August 9? Don’t worry, you can still catch the fireworks at various locations.
Here are several great (and free) spots around Singapore:
- Funan Mall rooftop garden
- The Lawn at Marina Bay
- The Helix
- Marina Resevoir
7. Can I see fireworks from my HDB?
Can’t make it to the city on August 9? No worries—you can celebrate in the heartlands on August 10 instead, and you can probably even see the fireworks from your HDB apartment.
FutsalArena @ Yishun, One Punggol, Junction 8 (Bishan), Bukit Gombak ActiveSG Stadium or Wisma Geylang Serai will be filled with aerial flypasts, live performances, exhibits, community activities, fireworks and even a drone show.
These sites will be buzzing with activity from 4PM to 9PM—lucky you if you live nearby and can take part in the festivities.
8. Where can I escape the National Day crowd?
It can be tough to dodge the crowds anywhere in the city, so if you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of National Day celebrations, your best bet is to head out to the quieter fringes or nature spots away from the action.
Or you could also stay home and watch the NDP parade live on TV or online—comfort and peace guaranteed.
Featured Image Credit: NDP
