Photo credit: VISIT SINGAPORE

Istana open to public on Jul 23 for National Day celebration

Open from 8.30am to 6pm, it will feature various live performances, activity booths, and guided tours.

Dini Qistina Binte Ali

You can find me in record stores even though I don’t own a record player.

Published: 19 July 2023, 5:40 PM

The Istana Open House (IOH) will return on Jul 23 (Sunday) as part of the National Day celebrations. 

Open from 8.30am to 6pm, it will feature musical and dance performances, activity booths, and guided tours.

These include a band performance by New Town Primary School and Anderson Primary School, Malay dance by Damai Primary School, and musical performances by NAFA, yIN Harmony, and NJ Studio. 

Other activities include candle art making, Arabic calligraphy, traditional games such as five stones and capteh, and photo exhibitions. 

A guided tour of the Istana main building will also be held. Participants can get a chance to view selected function rooms and take a closer look at a collection of State Gifts presented to Singapore’s leaders.

The tour will be conducted every 30 minutes from 9.30am to 5pm. Tickets for the tour are priced at $2 for adult Singapore citizens and PRs. Those who prefer self-guided tours can sign up for $4 per adult.

Visitors who are looking to surround themselves with flora and fauna can partake in The Nature Guided Tour led by volunteers from NParks. Held every hour from 10am to 4pm, participants will have the opportunity to explore the newly enhanced Swan Pond, the Japanese Garden, and the inclusive garden.

Admission to the tour is priced at $4 for adult Singapore Citizens and PRS, whereas foreigners are required to pay a standard fee of $10.

F&B booths by Old Chang Kee and Udders Ice Cream will also be set up. 

Limited-edition Istana and President’s Challenge souvenirs will be available for sale at merchandise booths. All proceeds will go towards the benefitting agencies supported by President’s Challenge.

Entry to the Istana grounds is free for all Singapore Citizens and PRs. 

The Istana is located at Orchard Road Singapore 238823. Visitors can enter the Istana grounds via the Main Gate at Orchard Road, located close to Dhoby Ghaut MRT station.

The upcoming National Day will be President Halimah Yacob’s last nationwide celebration as the head of state.

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