As we approach the cusp of National Day, I’m sure many of us who’re looking forward to screaming Majulah Singapura have already planned out our long weekend to catch the upcoming festivities.
But before you lose your voice belting out National Day songs at the Padang, swing by the National Day Istana Open House on 28th July 2024 to get the entire fam amped up for what’s to come on the big day itself.
Located along Orchard Road, The Istana is the official residence and office of the president of Singapore, and is also used to receive and entertain state guests. It is usually strictly out of bounds to the public, but it opens its doors 4 to 5 times a year on selected days to welcome all to roam its grounds.
Image credit: The Istana
The days which the public are able to enter The Istana are called Istana Open House, and these take place around major festive holidays in Singapore. So far, there have been a total of 2 Istana Open Houses in 2024, held over Hari Raya and Chinese New Year.
Future Istana Open House dates include the upcoming one in July to celebrate National Day, and another which coincides with Deepavali, happening in late October.
The National Day Istana Open House is taking place on 28th July 2024, from 8.30am-6pm. Much like past Istana Open Houses, Singaporeans and Permanent Residents are granted free entry into The Istana.
All other guests will have to pay a $20 entrance fee, or $10 for children aged 4 to 12, while little ones below 4 years of age get free entry too.
2022’s Istana Open House performance.
Image credit: Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Once here, visitors can expect to be captivated by a slew of National Day-related musical and dance performances. Some headliners include a Malay dance performance by students from Bedok Green Primary School, a harp ensemble from Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’ Secondary, and a Chinese Orchestra from Beatty Secondary School just to name a few.
Also part of the lineup are local artistes who’ll serenade you with their lovely voices, like Asher Wenyao Mendelsohn and Thaarmin.
For those arriving on an empty stomach, you won’t have to go hungry for long as there’ll be food options readily available on the Istana grounds. Grab small bites at the on-site Old Chang Kee truck, or pop by the food tent as stalls like Udders Ice Cream and EpiKebabs will be setting up shop. Do take note that only cashless payments will be accepted.
Apart from the nosh, you can also purchase limited-edition Istana souvenirs such as mugs, keychains, postcards and the like at the pop-up merchandise stands here too. The proceeds here will go to benefiting charities supported by the President’s Challenge 2024, so consider this a good opportunity to show some love in the spirit of National Day.
It’s not often that we get to set foot into the Istana’s exclusive premises, so do take this opportunity to tour the area if this is your first time on these storied grounds. The place is huge, so should you need someone to point you in the right direction, there are guided tours you can sign up for. These are going for $4/pax for Singapore citizens and PRs.
Image credit: The Istana
There’ll be 2 types of guided tours available: those who prefer to get closer to the fauna and flora of the Istana can opt for the Nature Guided Tour, while the tour of the Istana Main Building is just the thing if you’d like to sneak a peek of areas like the various function rooms.
Of course, you’ll also be able to roam about on your own; the Istana Heritage Gallery is free to enter for all visitors.
In case you’re looking to get everyone excited for Singapore’s 59th year of independence, consider taking a trip to this year’s National Day Istana Open House. You’ll get to soak in the festivities, and who knows, you might even get to rub shoulders with the president himself.
Cover image adapted from: @through.sam.eyes via Instagram, The Istana
Original article published on 9th February 2024. Last updated on 24th July 2024.
Admission: Free for Singapore citizens and PRs | $20/adult, $10/child (4-12 years) for all other guests
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