You’ve probably already bookmarked a bunch of National Day activities happening across the island this August, but go ahead and add The President’s home to your list; it’s not often that the doors to The Istana are open, after all. As always, there will be a couple of Istana Open House events happening throughout the year, with the next one happening on 3rd August 2025 in celebration of SG60.
Visitors will get to enjoy local performances, snag homegrown artwork, and even take some exclusive Uniqlo merch home.
The colonial building located at Orchard Road isn’t usually open to the public, but the gates to the grounds open to the public a few days a year. When the public holidays roll around, it’s about that time that the Istana Open House occurs. All you have to do is check The Istana website for upcoming events.
Image credit: Nparks via Facebook
For the uninitiated, The Istana is the official residence of the President of Singapore. Although our current leader, President Tharman, does not live in the palace, his office is located within. He does make an appearance at the Istana Open House from time to time, though, so you just might spot him there.
Image credit: @fisyah via Instagram
It is also where Singapore hosts foreign dignitaries and where ceremonial duties are performed.
Take lots and lots of pics to immortalise the memory of visiting The President’s home.
Image adapted from: @nicolellli & @vicdhondt via Instagram
The gates open at 8.30am. Simply show up at the Main Gate along Orchard Road and enter for free if you’re a Singaporean or PR; no registration is required. All other visitors are welcome too, with a ticket of $20/adult and $10/child. By the way, all the proceeds go to charities and beneficiaries supported by the President’s Challenge.
Main tent where activities and performances are held.
Image credit: @kimminalism via Instagram
Stay patient while the guards do their duty during the security checks, and be prepared to queue for a bit. As long as you’re not carrying any prohibited items, you’ll be good to go. Items not allowed include pointed and sharp objects like scissors, flammable items, tripods, and canned drinks. Having said that, you’re advised to carry an umbrella and a water bottle.
One can also enter the Istana Villa at $2/pax for Singaporeans and PRs; and $10/adult or $5/child for all other visitors.
Image adapted from: Nparks via Facebook, @matsuyamayoshihiko via Instagram
There’s also usually an Istana Heritage Tour conducted by NParks volunteers that starts every hour from 9am to 4pm.
| Tour fees | |
| Singapore Citizens & PRs | $8/adult | $4/child Family package: $22 for 2 adults & 2 children |
| Other visitors | $30/adult | $12/child |
Sign up for the Istana Heritage Tour.
If slots are full, feel free to roam the Istana grounds and beautiful gardens on a self-guided tour. All this has to be done on foot; don’t bother bringing your bicycles, roller blades or PMDs as they won’t be allowed in.
Image adapted from: @audreywalker225gtm via Instagram
There will be a roving art truck by the National Gallery, where you can unleash your inner kiasu and snag some postcards featuring artwork by local artist Heman Chong.
Don’t miss Twine Together!, a collaboration between the National Heritage Board and Uniqlo, where you’ll transform fabric scraps into handmade trinkets.
There’ll also be a lineup of performances taking place on 3rd August 2025 from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Highlights include local singer-songwriters LAYYI and Sherman Zhuo, and live student performances from various schools, featuring an angklung and kulintang ensemble and choral recital.
You’ll also get to bring home limited-edition souvenirs that can only be found at The Istana, like caps, mugs, and luggage tags.
Pro tip: Head to the merch booths first – the first 10,000 visitors will receive a free National Day goodie bag.
Well, for most people, #sundayfunday consists of spending quality time with the family, so grab the folks and head to The Istana Open House 2025.
Image credit: @matsuyamayoshihiko via Instagram
Admission: Free for Singaporeans & PRs | $20/adult, $10/child for visitors
Date: 3rd August 2025
Time: 8.30am-6pm
Location: The Istana
Cover image adapted from: @meg_in_sg, @layyimusic & @fisyah via Instagram
Last updated by Shannon Chow on 29th July 2025.
Book your flights and get ready to jam.
These Christmas exclusive events have magical snowfall shows.
Play Merry-Poly too.
Technically, this is the second time Singapore has qualified for the Asian Cup.
This is your call to get up earlier for work.
As if we need another reason to visit the mall.