No parade ticket, no problem — get National Day vibes at these spots

Are you trying to make plans for Aug 9 to join in the National Day festivities but have no idea where to go? The Straits Times has you covered.

- Esther Loi

For the first time, the National Day Parade (NDP) show will extend from the Padang to Marina Bay as part of an "expanded canvas" to mark Singapore's 60th birthday.

Members of the public can catch the aerial display, fireworks as well as the descent of the Red Lions onto the Padang and naval divers into the waters of Marina Bay.

There will also be light projections on UOB Building Plaza 1 and The Fullerton Hotel, allowing people outside the Padang to be part of the National Day experience.

3 VENUES WITH FREE ACTIVITIES

There are a few non-ticketed venues where the public can soak in the festivities while watching a live telecast of the parade: The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay, Marina Barrage and the Singapore Sports Hub.

At The Meadow, visitors can play nostalgic games in larger-than-life formats, savour complimentary traditional snacks, take part in interactive art activities, and watch live performances.

Over at Marina Barrage, people can try their hand at upcycling unwanted fabrics or jars, take on sustainability-themed challenges, and learn more about the environment through interactive booths.

Last but not least, those at the Singapore Sports Hub can participate in fitness activities, buy handcrafted products from an artisanal marketplace, and take their fur babies to a pet fair.

LOOK UP... IT'S THE RED LIONS!