As part of the celebratory events leading to National Day, the Istana Open House (IOH) will be open to visitors on Sunday, 28 July 2024, from 8.30am to 6pm. Visitors are encouraged to wear red outfits to celebrate National Day.

Members of the public can enjoy a series of live performances and activity booths, as well as tour the Istana grounds. The public can also explore the Istana Heritage Gallery situated in Istana Park, across from the Main Gate of Istana.

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Performances and Activity Booths

Image credit: Eugene Yeo

The National Day-themed activities include creating the Singapore flag and Merlion magnets with nagomi art and paper quilling, and games such as the bean bag toss. Nagomi art involves painting with one’s fingers and pastel powder, while quilling is known for using coloured strips of paper that are rolled, shaped and glued together to produce a 3D artwork.

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Visitors can also enjoy musical and multi-ethnic dance performances by students from Beatty Secondary School, Bedok Green Primary School, Endeavour Primary School, Madrasah Al-Ma’arif Al-Islamiah, Nan Hua High School, Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’ Secondary School, Qihua Primary School, River Valley High School and Townsville Primary School.

The People’s Association Talents and the Eurasian Association Singapore, as well as young local musicians Lyla Ng, Asher Wenyao Mendelsohn and Thaarmin, will also be taking the stage.

Guided Tours

Guided tours of the Istana Main Building will be conducted from 9.30am to 5pm, during which visitors can view selected function rooms and take a closer look at a selection of State Gifts presented over the years to Singapore’s leaders. Visitors interested in the Istana’s flora and fauna can join the Nature Guided Tour from 10am to 4pm. Visitors can also opt to go on self-guided tours.

Snacks and Merchandise

There will also be food stalls, a food truck and merchandise booths with limited edition souvenirs.

Photo Credit: Ministry of Communications and Information

➡️ Related Read: 5 Fun National Day Crafts You Can Do With Your Kids

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