NDP 2020 to be celebrated from heartlands with two shows

Singapore’s National Day Parade (NDP) 2020 will see parade segments moved into the heartlands and streamed live on TV and internet platforms for Singaporeans to celebrate from home.

The number of participants have been reduced to less than 300, as a result of the measures put in place to combat COVID-19.

Traditional segments, such as the state flag flypast, aerial display of the F-15 fighter jets, and the Red Lions’ free-fall displays will take place around the island. It will also pay a special tribute to COVID-19 frontliners.

Celebrations of Singapore’s 55th birthday, which is themed “Together, A Stronger Singapore”, will be split into morning and evening shows.

The morning show will begin with a broadcast of the National Day Message from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, followed by a parade at the Padang that will be reviewed by the President. Flag raising ceremonies will be conducted across Singapore during the singing of the national anthem.

The evening show will be held at The Star Performing Arts Centre in Buona Vista. It will feature films and performances by Singaporeans.

Fireworks display will be held at over 10 different locations in Singapore.

In between the morning and evening shows, Singaporeans can participate in virtual and home activities, including a NDP-themed workout and family cooking activity. Funpacks will be handed out to every Singapore household.

While the NDP is broadcast remotely, Singaporeans will be able to take part in it, by submitting a recording of a common national day song.

The NDP executive committee, helmed by Brigadier-General Frederick Choo, will put together these recordings to create an NDP virtual choir.

“This year’s NDP will be a landmark one. For the first time since independence, instead of bringing Singaporeans to a location, we will bring NDP across the island into every Singaporeans home,” said BG Choo.