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If you are Singaporean, cap off the second week of August on a high note with National Day (9 Aug). This year, the country celebrates its diamond jubilee and numerous SG60 programmes have been rolled out by various organisations to mark this milestone, from National Day-themed food partnerships to the largest nocturnal experience in Singapore.
Here is our list of the 19 best things to do in August for a month filled with festivities.
1. National Day Parade (9 Aug)
The National Day Parade (NDP) 2025 focuses on celebrating the nation’s journey and uniting Singaporeans. It emphasises unity, identity and commemoration, with a renewed social compact under the broader “Building Our Singapore Together” theme. This year’s NDP will return to The Padang, a historically significant location in the Civic District.
The Red Lions will perform their signature parachute display and for the first time, elite naval divers will also conduct a maritime jump, offering a unique visual spectacle. The annual celebrations will have aerial flypasts, mass displays and multimedia performances. These highlight tales of courage, resilience and hope under the “Majulah Moments” theme.
The celebrations will culminate with dazzling fireworks over Marina Bay. But suppose that you didn’t manage to get tickets to the parade. If so, heartland celebrations will take place at Bishan, Punggol, Yishun, Geylang and Bukit Gombak on 10 Aug. Residents can look forward to catching crowd favourites from the Padang at their doorsteps, such as the Mobile Column and a Fighter Island Flypast. The Red Lions will be descending at Bishan.
Connaught Drive, Singapore 179682
+65 1800 637 2025
5.30pm – 8.30pm (Pre-Parade to Fireworks)
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2. Colugo Camp at Mandai Wildlife East (from 8 Aug)
Have you dreamt of staying in the wild? Skip the flight to South Africa, as Colugo Camp, a new permanent glamping site at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, will welcome guests from 8 Aug.
Relax in 20 square-metre safari-style tents that can each accommodate up to 4 guests with a queen-size bed and a bunk bed. The 20 tents — some designed for wheelchair accessibility — each comes with a ceiling fan, a standing fan, a portable air-conditioning unit and Wi-Fi. Each one also has an outdoor patio that overlooks Upper Seletar Reservoir.
The rates are S$550/night for 2 people, S$700 for 3 and S$800 for 4. Dinner and breakfast are included. Guests are discouraged from eating in tents to prevent attracting wildlife. It includes admission to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Wonders.
80 Mandai Lake Road, Mandai Wildlife East, Singapore 729826
Day 1: 3pm – 10.30pm (Check-in from 2.30pm)
Day 2: 7am – 11am (Check-out by 11am)
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3. Orchid Extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay (1 – 31 Aug)
In celebration of the Vanda Miss Joaquim (the national flower of Singapore), this edition of the Orchid Extravaganza floral display at the Gardens by the Bay pays tribute to the nation’s rich heritage through creative orchid interpretations of iconic Singaporean symbols.
A horticultural love letter to a very Singaporean bloom, display highlights include an orchid interpretation of the Supertrees, which have become synonymous with Singapore’s skyline, a floral tribute to Peranakan culture, recreations of Cultural Medallion recipient Lee Hock Moh’s orchid paintings and a nod to the orchid’s presence throughout Singapore’s history.
18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore 018953
+65 6420 6848
Daily: 9am – 9pm
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4. Orchid Garden Crystal Candle
If you miss the smell of orchids after your trip to the Orchid Extravaganza, buy the Orchid Garden Crystal Candle (S$33). In tribute to Singapore’s National Day this August, the Slow Scent Company is proud to encapsulate a scent that reflects Singapore’s identity.
Orchid Garden is a limited-edition scent that celebrates the spirit of our blooming Garden City. This floral and verdant fragrance captures the lovely essence of fresh orchids and lush greenery flourishing in the heart of our island city. The candle is made from 100 percent vegan soy wax from US-grown soybeans, for a clean-burning, better-scenting experience.
Housed in a jar with a natural biodegradable cork lid, the candle, made from plant-based fragrance and pure essential oil blends, is a gentle nod to nature in both form and function.
For a full list of locations & opening hours, refer here.
+65 8087 3328
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5. Lord of the Rings – Musical Tale (12 – 31 Aug)
The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale is a stage adaptation of author J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy trilogy, set to premiere in Singapore at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands in August 2025. This production, also the Asian premiere, will have a limited-season run.
The musical tells the story of Frodo Baggins and his quest to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom from the perspective of the Hobbits. It includes original music by A.R. Rahman, Finnish folk band Varttina and composer Christopher Nightingale, with book and lyrics by dramatist Shaun McKenna and playwright Matthew Warchus. The production’s rich theatrics, enchanting music and gripping storytelling keep audiences hooked to their seats.
The show has previously enjoyed successful runs at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and Civic Theatre Auckland. The show is also scheduled for a tour in Australia in January 2025.
Ticket between S$68 and S$238 at Sistic
10 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands, Sands Theatre, Singapore 018956
+65 6348 5555
Tue to Thu: 8pm
Fri: 8pm
Sat: 2pm & 8pm
Sun: 6.30pm (& 1pm on 31 Aug)
No Monday shows
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6. New tonkatsu restaurant Shin Katsu
If tantalising pork cutlet meals make you salivate, Shin Katsu has set a new benchmark in Singapore’s tonkatsu dining scene. Helmed by Chef Matsubayashi Masato, a seasoned tonkatsu specialist and former Head Chef of Ma Maison. It is presented in collaboration with The Gourmet Factor. The concept brings over 15 years of culinary expertise to the fore.
The menu features a diverse range of expertly prepared tonkatsu sets. Each of these meals is served with refillable miso soup, charcoal-grilled rice, crisp cabbage and house-made pickles. The 3-in-1 Shin Katsu Combo (S$34.80), featuring prawn, Canadian rosu (loin) and hire (tenderloin) cutlets, presents a harmonious balance of flavours and textures.
The Mangalica from Hungary (above, right), referred to as the “Kobe beef of pork” for its buttery mouthfeel, made a lasting impression on Chef Masato during his days travelling. Another standout is the U.S. Kurobuta, endeared for its tender texture and savoury depth.
Both cuts are featured in highlight meals, such as the Mangalica Hungarian Rosu Katsu (S$42.80) and U.S. Kurobuta Hire Katsu Set (S$36.80), each with its distinct flavour.
84/86 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088505
+65 8825 8311
Daily: 11.30 am – 3pm & 5pm – 10pm
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7. Titanic: An Immersive Voyage (from 6 Aug)
Titanic: An Immersive Voyage is a multi-sensory exhibition enabling one to experience the tale of the Titanic. It combines artefacts, life-sized room recreations and cutting-edge technology to recreate the experience of being on board the ship. One key feature is the virtual reality experience that takes one to the wreck site of the Titanic deep underwater.
Visitors will walk through recreated ship cabins and other spaces, experiencing the sights, sounds and mood of the Titanic. Artefacts, including handwritten passenger letters, will be displayed. The exhibition includes the first local report of the sinking from 1912, along with historical photos of Singapore. This display links the global event to the Singapore context.
This exhibition centres on the tales of those on the Titanic, allowing visitors to connect with the human side of the tragedy. It is designed to evoke the emotions and sensations felt by passengers, from the excitement of boarding to the fear and heartbreak of the ship sinking.
Adult Ticket (Above 18 Years Old) from S$20.90 & Child (Aged 4-12) Ticket from S$15.90 at FeverUp
25 Scotts Road, Singapore 228220
Wed to Mon: 10am – 6pm
Closed on Tue
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8. Sentosa Grillfest (17 Jul – 10 Aug)
Sand, sea and smoky flavours return as Sentosa GrillFest 2025 fires up its 8th edition from 17 Jul to 10 Aug, every Friday to Sunday along Siloso Beach. With more than 35 vendors, including 2024’s People’s Choice favourites, savour everything from rare cuts to bold flavours, served with a side of live showmanship and beachside atmosphere.
Don’t miss the all-new GrillHouse for communal dining and culinary theatre. Or explore farm-to-flame delights at the Marketplace, where local produce meets chef-driven food.
At the International Grill section, be sure to tuck into their juicy Jamaican jerk chicken, a flavourful dish with chicken marinated in a blend of spices and slow-cooked over a fire or grill, traditionally using pimento wood. The “jerk” style of cooking, originating in Jamaica, involves a spicy marinade and a smoky, aromatic cooking process. This results in a dish with a distinctive spicy-sweet flavour, enhanced by the pimento wood’s smoky undertones.
Admission is free. You only need to pay for the food and drinks you consume at the event.
60 Siloso Beach Walk, Singapore 098997
+65 1800-SENTOSA (736 8672)
Fri to Sun: 4pm – 10.30pm
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9. Singapore Night Festival (22 Aug – 6 Sep)
The Singapore Night Festival (SNF) will be back for its 16th run, transforming the Bras Basah-Bugis (BBB) area into a celebration of island life after dark from 22 Aug to 6 Sep.
Set against the backdrop of Singapore’s 60th anniversary, the first edition of SNF planned by HeritageSG is themed Island Nights. Dive into Singapore’s island heritage, exploring the relationships that continue to pulse through our city and connect us to islands near and far.
From festival staples, including projection mapping artworks and mesmerising night light installations, to innovative experiential programmes and vibrant food and offerings at the festival villages, SNF 2025 has 3 unforgettable weekends with more than 80 experiences.
Step into the Sky Castle at Cathay Green. Here, vibrant, inflatable arches respond to your every movement with cascading colours and sounds. On the other side of the BBB area at Capitol Singapore, enjoy a tranquil escape with Kampong Chill, imagined as a pavilion for relaxation. Delight in experiences here that reflect the essence of island life in the country.
Ticket to Night Castle at S$5.05 at Klook
Bras Basah-Bugis precinct
Night time
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10. AIR CCCC’s refreshed menu
Are you looking for a restaurant that is a breath of fresh air from your standard NDP fare? AIR CCCC has unveiled a refreshed culinary identity, a team bringing bold flavours and a renewed energy that brings people together through food, space and shared experiences.
Highlights of the new menu include the Ceviche of Local Mahi Mahi (S$35), a dish that brings together wild fish from the Philippines, calamansi lime, guava, watermelon radish and peppery herbs from AIR’s own garden. A soulful Whole Grouper (S$65) by Chef Yong offers a playful take on Southeast Asian flavours. Dry-aged and grilled over charcoal, the fish is served with coconut, lemongrass broth and a spicy-sweet pineapple dabu dabu. It evokes the calmness of a beachside Piña Colada, reinterpreted as a hearty, shareable main.
While diners can explore the menu à la carte, those dining in groups of 4 or more can opt for the Sharing Selection (S$88/person), a generous spread designed to show off the variety and spirit of AIR. For a more curated journey, diners can also enjoy the 7-course Chef’s Choice experience (S$108/person), better known as “Omakase” in Japanese.
25B Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670
+65 8228 1528
Wed & Thu: 8 am – 3 pm & 5.30pm – 11 pm
Fri: 8 am – 3 pm & 5.30pm – 11 pm
Sat & Sun: 8 am – 3 pm & 5pm – 11 pm
Closed on Mon & Tue
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11. Choon Hoy Parlor 2.0
This June, vintage restaurant Choon Hoy Parlor (CHP) relocates to Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, next to sister concept The Masses. Choon Hoy Parlor 2.0 (CHP 2.0) opens with a bigger space, expanded menu and the largest baijiu collection in Asia outside of China that can be enjoyed with a new cocktail bar experience. Also upcoming are new services such as delivery, catering, private dining and the retail of frozen signature items.
New a-la-carte highlights include the Oriental Charcuterie Board (S$25.90++) (above, left), a bold reinterpretation of Western charcuterie featuring 5 types of Asian-style cured meats such as pork lap cheong and waxed duck meat, Morel Silkie Chicken Consommé (S$14.90++/pax) and the Trio of Orh Ni (S$12.90++), a recreation of the popular dessert served with taro balls, ginkgo nut, coconut ice cream and a pork lard tuille. Signatures have also been refreshed. These include the Mocha Prime Pork Rib (S$25.90++) (above, right) and Claypot Dry Laksa (S$18.90++/2pax).
A weekday Local-style Set Lunch offers a 3-course option (S$18.90++, 2 starters + 1 main) and a 4-course option (S$24.90++, 3 starters + 1 main). For groups of 3 or more, the Communal Menu (S$59.90++/pax, minimum 3 pax) provides a curated selection of highlights from the à la carte menu. It is available for lunch and dinner.
15 Stamford Road, Capitol Singapore, #01-84A, Singapore 178906
+65 6266 0061
Daily: 11:30 am – 3 pm & 5.30pm – 9.30 pm
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12. Waterbomb Singapore (30 & 31 Aug)
Waterbomb Singapore returns for its second edition this year on 30 & 31 Aug at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. As part of the Viu Scream Dates initiative and in partnership with sponsor DBS Bank, they will be bringing back Singapore’s biggest and only water music festival.
This year, the festival promises an exhilarating experience for festival-goers. It features high-energy shows and water play, making it an electrifying weekend of music and fun.
Experience entertainment across 8 hours each day with a new line-up of top K-pop, K-hip-hop and Electronic Dance Music artists such as 2NE1 and Taemin and Minho from SHINee.
Combine that with water games and signature blasts for the ultimate summer beach party. Bring extra clothing with you — trust us, you don’t want to go home all drenched in water.
2-Day Standard General Pass at S$388 at Ticketmaster
10A Siloso Beach Walk, Singapore 099008
Wed & Thu: 3pm – 10pm
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13. Mamee Monster SG60 Campaign
Mamee Monster is going all out for Singapore’s 60th birthday with a jolly campaign that teams up with streetwear label Musoka Club via a nationwide puzzle hunt challenge.
From 1 Aug, keep your eyes out for specially marked Mamee Monster Family Packs. These will have a sticker on the front (not shown above), indicating that a limited-edition puzzle piece is hidden inside. There are 10 unique puzzle pieces to collect.
Be one of the first 10 to complete the full puzzle set and you’ll win a Monster Goodie Bag. It comes with a limited-edition Mamee x Musoka Club T-shirt and a Monster Smashed Chicken Burger bundle meal redemption code. Prizes are while stocks last.
The next 30 winners to collect any 5 puzzle pieces will get a 20 percent discount voucher, valid for either collaboration item. The contest is valid while the stocks last.
For a full list of locations, opening hours & contact numbers, refer here (NTUC FairPrice) and here (Giant Supermarket).
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As part of the campaign, there will also be a surprise drop with local streetwear label Musoka Club that taps into a childhood memory. The goal of the design is for Mamee to be more than just a nostalgic reference, but also a wearable moment from childhood. The T-shirt has the Mamee monster at the top right corner and food crumbs at the bottom left.
A black T-shirt will cost S$79 and a white T-shirt will cost S$59 at their online store.
2 Venture Drive, Vision Exchange, #14-32, Singapore 608526
From 8pm (Online Store)
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Remember the viral smashed burger that American streamer iShowSpeed ate during his visit to Arab Street? That’s right. Mamee is teaming up with burger joint Smashed.
Look out for the limited-time Monster Smashed Chicken Burger (S$11.90 for à la carte & S$13.90 for a burger meal) that will deliver crunch and flavour in each bite. In particular, the burger is coated with Mamee Monster noodles for added texture and flavour.
21 Baghdad Street, Singapore 199066
+65 8960 4362
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10pm
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14. hue’s first anniversary celebration (till 7 Aug)
Since its debut in Singapore one year ago, mood wellness brand hue has turned every uninspiring, sluggish and stressful moment into a chance for a mood boost. Now it’s back with goodness-filled chewy delights with 2 new moods of Calming and Fulfilling chews, alongside their newly formulated and improved chews for Energising and Uplifting.
From now to 7 Aug, customers who buy a hue bundle (2 or more boxes of hue chews) may receive a golden ticket tucked inside their order for a chance to be among the 5 lucky winners to score exciting prizes as part of hue’s first anniversary.
If you’re the lucky one, post an Instagram Story of your golden ticket and tag @findmyhue. What’s up for grabs? 5 mood-themed prizes, which include a MacBook Air, $600 Scoot flyanywhere voucher, a luxurious stress reliever treatment ($395), a premium weighted blanket by local bedding store Weavve and a limited-edition hue gift set.
Winners will be announced during a live draw on @findmyhue’s Instagram account at noon on 8 Aug. All prizes must be redeemed in person using the original golden ticket.
15. SkillsFuture Festival (7 Jul – 18 Aug)
The SkillsFuture Festival is an annual event organised by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and the Community Development Councils (CDCs) to promote lifelong learning and skills development. It aims to help individuals enhance skills and explore career opportunities.
If you are looking to enter the growing tech industry without a hard crash, visit the “Soft Landing a Career in Tech” event on 5 Aug at the HCSA Academy (6pm – 8.30pm). This programme focuses on helping individuals transition into or advance within the tech industry through workshops, career coaching, networking opportunities and job interviews.
If you’re a mid-career switcher, go for the My Career Health Matters: SSG-WSG Jobs and Skills Roadshow. Visit the roadshow at the NEX Atrium (L1) from 31 Jul to 3 Aug to find out how to improve your career health to get hired or move into careers with better prospects. Take proactive steps today to keep your employability in tip-top condition.
For a full list of locations & timings, refer here.
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16. Decathlon Sports Fest (2 – 3 Aug)
The Decathlon Sports Fest 2025 is Singapore’s largest free sports festival. It offers a weekend of sports tryouts for all ages. The event has over 30 different sports and activities, including pony riding, scuba diving and more. The event aims to provide a fun and engaging experience for families and individuals to explore new sports and activities.
Friendly and experienced coaches will be available to guide participants through each sport, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The event is designed to be enjoyed by all ages, from toddlers to grandparents, with activities that are suitable for various fitness levels and interests. Besides sports tryouts, there will also be music, food and a bustling atmosphere.
Participants can pick up a Sports Passport at the entrance to track their progress through the different sports stations. Completing 10 stations can earn you membership points. It will also qualify you for a lucky draw with prizes that include a bike, smartwatch, and tent.
Sat & Sun: 9am – 7pm
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17. SAM Contemporaries: How to Dream Worlds (1 Aug – 16 Nov)
The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) will be presenting SAM Contemporaries: How To Dream Worlds, a free exhibition with newly commissioned art by 6 emerging local artists.
This run delves into the act of dreaming. It invites visitors to think about what it means to reimagine living, relating and perceiving. This prompts audiences to consider dreaming as a means of resistance, speculation and lingering uncertainties of the present and the future.
Spanning installation, moving image and more, the works transport audiences into unique worlds, from using wild lalang (cogongrass) to question systems of control, to unpacking the complexities of diplomacy through different renditions of nasi goreng. Each artist draws from diverse materials, mediums and personal research to construct compelling narratives.
39 Keppel Road, #01-02, Singapore 089065
Daily: 10am – 7pm
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18. STEM Fiesta at the Science Centre (9 – 11 Aug)
The Science Centre Singapore will celebrate SG60 with a thrilling STEM Fiesta. It is a 3-day bonanza of discovery and fun for the family, from 9 to 11 Aug, 10am to 5pm.
Catch 2 dazzling performances at the Annexe Hall 1, alternating hourly from 10.30am to 4.30pm. The Spectacular Science Show packs demonstrations that have wowed Science Centre audiences, from swirling fire tornadoes and dramatic hydrogen balloon explosions to billowing liquid nitrogen clouds. This 15-minute, dialogue-free format is designed to amaze.
The Electrified Elements Light Show promises a power-packed display of lights, lasers and robotics. It provides a sneak peek into the Science Centre Singapore’s award-winning theatrical production, The ELECTRIFIED Show. This visual spectacle will give audiences an exclusive first look at brand-new effects from the upcoming season 2 of the production.
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents enjoy free admission to the Science Centre.
15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081
+65 6425 2500
Tue to Sun: 10am – 5pm
Closed on Mon
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19. Kansosan’s debut with skincare products
Their bestselling Kansosan Skincare Moisture Base (30g) (S$21.90) (above, left) provides deep, long-lasting hydration throughout the day and has 3-in-1 functionality, serving as a moisturiser, Sun Protection Factor (SPF) protection and a makeup primer.
Their Kansosan Medical Moisture Essence Lotion (230g) (S$23.90) rebalances skin PH while delivering essential hydration. It also has a 3-in-1 formula, functioning as a lotion, serum and emulsion. Their full range is now available at beauty stores such as Guardian, DON DON DONKI, Welcia-BHG and E-Commerce platforms (TikTok, Shopee and Lazada).
For a full list of locations, opening hours & contact numbers, refer here.
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