It’s almost that time of year when you need to start making bookings at restaurants to catch the NDP fireworks and recall the lyrics to your favourite National Day songs. But if your goal this year is to catch the National Day Parade (NDP) live at the National Stadium instead of on TV, then you’ll first need to get your hands on a couple of NDP 2026 tickets.
If you’re a Singaporean or PR, listen up. Balloting for the main parade on 9th August 2026, as well as the NDP previews, will start on 23rd May at 12pm and end on 6th June at noon. So, you’ve got less than 2 weeks to send in your application.
There’ll be 2 preview shows on 25th July and 1st August, which are basically the same as the main parade, except you’re unlikely to see members of the parliament at these. The President and PM usually only show up for the actual event. However, a spectacular show of fireworks is guaranteed for every parade.
As mentioned earlier, only Singaporeans and PRs are eligible to apply, and you’ll have to do this via your SingPass. Although each person is only given 1 chance to ballot, you can opt for 2, 4, or 6 NDP tickets. This means it’s time to start polling in group chats as to which friends or family members want to come along and create memorable National Day Parade moments together.
Before you get into chiong-ing mode, let us tell you that tickets are not given on a first-come-first-served basis, so there’s no need to hurry. Just apply before 6th June to qualify. Plus, the National Stadium can seat up to 42,000 peeps, so your odds are not too bad. You’ll then get a confirmation of your application from info@plumber.gov.sg via email or SMS from gov.sg.
If successful, each ticket entitles 1 spectator to enjoy the show. This includes infants carried in arms, so even little ones will require a valid ticket. So, when do the balloting results come out? Between 15th and 17th June 2026. This time, keep a lookout for an email notification from info@mail.postman.gov.sg or an SMS from gov.sg.
Only successful applicants will be notified, but make sure to check your junk folder in case it ends up there. Having said that, be wary of scams or phishing emails by checking that the email is from the official one mentioned above.
And if you haven’t been chosen, don’t be disheartened. In the weeks leading up to NDP 2026, there are usually numerous legit giveaways run by local radio channels and media publications for you to try and snag tickets for yourself.
Also, make sure not to purchase from ticket scalpers, as reselling of NDP tickets is strictly not allowed and may land you in trouble too.
In commemoration of 61 years of independence, NDP 2026’s theme is “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!”, an expansion of last year’s theme. It encapsulates our Singapore Spirit to progress as a nation, as well as a call to action for us to do better for Singapore and Singaporeans.
Keep your cameras ready for the first indoor drone show and the largest indoor special effects presentation in NDP history. The show will feature 5 different segments, showcased on a massive platform spanning the stadium’s football field, where you can also expect aerial elements, stage lifts, and multimedia displays.
That’s not all – The Kallang is also where you can catch music performances, interactive booths, and activities from 25th July to 9th August.
Something many of us look forward to every year is the NDP theme song; this year, we’re being treated with not 1 but 3 theme songs. Iman Fandi, who also stars as the protagonist of the NDP 2026 microdrama Heartbeats, lends her voice to Giants. Sing along to Gareth Fernandez and Dru Chen’s cheerful tune Sparkle, or be uplifted as Jasmine Sokko tells you You’ll Be Okay.
Unfortunately, this year’s National Day Parade won’t feature the iconic Red Lions, the Mobile Column, and the Aerial Display due to operational and safety considerations.
Like every year, spectators to the NDP will get a fun pack filled with snacks, drinks, vouchers, and fun stuff like LED wristbands to add to the experience.
State flag flypast, indoor drone shows, and 3 theme songs to boot, remember to cast your NDP ticket ballots starting 23rd May for a chance to see all these show highlights up close.
More useful guides:
First published on 24th May 2024. Last updated on 22nd May 2026.
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