Celebrating National Day with 25 Exciting Activities in 2024

18 July 2024

Celebrating National Day with 25 Exciting Activities in 2024

National Day is just around the corner, and what’s a better way to celebrate than with a day filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit? 

It's a time to come together with family, friends, and neighbours to honour our nation's heritage and create unforgettable memories! Whether you’re planning a large-scale event or an intimate gathering, there’s no shortage of ways to make the celebration special.

To help you plan a truly memorable event, we've rounded up 25 fantastic activities that will bring joy and excitement to your celebration. From interactive games to creative arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone!

At FunCo Singapore, we take pride in being an experienced event planning company with over 670+ successful events under our belt. Our goal is to ensure that your National Day celebration is not only fun but also reflects the vibrant spirit of our nation! 

Continue reading to dive into the ultimate National Day experience with our curated list of activities!

FUN INTERACTIVE GAMES

1. Lion Kingdom Bouncy Castle 

Let's face it, how can we celebrate National Day without our iconic Merlion!

Picture the joy on children's faces as they race towards the vibrant and majestic Lion Kingdom Bouncy Castle. The bright colours and towering lion design instantly capture their imagination! 

The soft, bouncy floor invites them to leap and bound, while the walls provide a secure haven for their playful antics. They can jump high, tumble, and somersault without a care in the world! Parents can also relax, knowing their little ones are safe and having the time of their lives.

Adding to the charm of the Lion Kingdom Bouncy Castle is its deep connection to Singapore’s identity as the Lion City! The name "Singapore" itself is derived from the Malay words "Singa" (lion) and "Pura" (city), a nod to the legendary sighting of a lion by Prince Sang Nila Utama. 

This bouncy castle isn't just a source of joy—it allows the young ones to play and celebrate in a way that ties them to their homeland's rich history and cultural significance!

2. Dragon Playground

Bring the iconic Dragon Playground to life with a scaled-down version of this beloved playground! Kids can climb, slide, and play just like they do at the original Toa Payoh Dragon Playground. 

The Dragon Playground holds a special place in the hearts of Singaporeans. Built in the 1970s, it is one of the few remaining heritage playgrounds designed by Mr. Khor Ean Ghee. The dragon, a symbol of strength and good fortune in Chinese culture, was chosen to reflect the cultural diversity and unity of Singapore! 

For many parents and grandparents, the Dragon Playground is a trip down memory lane. It's where they spent countless hours playing, laughing, and forging friendships. Seeing their children and grandchildren enjoy the same space creates a beautiful connection between the past and the present.

The scaled-down version of the Dragon Playground at your National Day event will be a bridge to Singapore's rich history. It’s a wonderful way to honour our heritage and keep the spirit of the Lion City alive for future generations! 

3. Feed the Lion Table Top

Add a fun twist to your National Day carnival with “Feed the Lion”. As guests approach the vibrant setup, they are greeted by a cheerful lion with a wide-open mouth, inviting them to join in the fun! 

The objective is simple yet challenging: toss balls into the lion's mouth to score points and win fabulous prizes. The game’s straightforward nature ensures everyone can participate, from young children honing their aim to adults reliving their carnival days. 

To add an extra layer of excitement, consider offering a variety of prizes for different levels of achievement. Small trinkets for participation, medium-sized rewards for higher scores, and grand prizes for the top performers will keep guests motivated and engaged! 

Incorporating “Feed the Lion” is a delightful way to celebrate National Day, blending traditional fun with a touch of local significance. This game is sure to be a roaring success, leaving guests with smiles on their faces and stories to tell!

4. Traditional Games

Embrace the nostalgia and charm of traditional games at your National Day celebration, where old favourites bring back fond memories and introduce younger generations to the simple joys of the past. These classic games are perfect for fostering camaraderie, healthy competition, and a sense of connection to Singapore’s rich cultural heritage! 

Five Stones: A classic game that tests dexterity and timing. Each player takes turns throwing a small cloth bag filled with rice or sand into the air, then quickly grabbing a predetermined number of stones from the ground before catching the bag. The game requires nimble fingers and sharp reflexes!

Chapteh: Show off your skills with this traditional kicking game. Players use their feet to keep the Chapteh aloft for as long as possible, often competing to see who can perform the most impressive tricks and maintain control the longest. The game is not only fun but also an excellent way to improve coordination and agility! 

Pick Up Sticks: Challenge friends to a game of steady hands and precision. This timeless game involves carefully picking up sticks from a scattered pile without disturbing the others. It’s a test of patience and a steady hand, making it a captivating activity for both participants and spectators!  

Integrating these games into your National Day event adds a meaningful layer of cultural significance, reminding everyone of the timeless joys that have been passed down through the years! 

Picture Source: Freepik

5. Tug Of War Rope

Gather friends and family for a thrilling game of Tug of War, where strength, strategy, and teamwork come together in an exhilarating display of camaraderie! 

The setup is simple yet effective: two teams, each positioned firmly on either side of a marked centre line, pulling with all their might to claim victory! The energy is infectious as spectators cheer on their favourite team, urging them to dig deep and give it their all. Children eagerly join in, their small but mighty efforts adding to the dynamic and competitive spirit of the game.

Tug of War isn't just about physical strength; it's a test of strategy and coordination as teams strategise their positions and timing to outmanoeuvre their opponents. For many, Tug of War evokes memories of school sports days or family gatherings, where generations have come together to enjoy this timeless pastime!

6. Large Jenga 

Step up to the challenge with oversized Large Jenga, where skill, strategy, and nerve come together in an exciting twist on the classic game! 

Imagine towering stacks of wooden blocks, each one carefully placed and balanced to create a structure that teeters on the edge of collapse. The anticipation mounts with each turn as players carefully select and remove blocks, trying to keep the tower from tumbling down! 

Each block represents a choice, a decision that could either lead to triumph or bring the tower crashing down. The game teaches patience and resilience, as players learn to adapt their strategy based on the ever-changing dynamics of the tower!

Large Jenga embodies the spirit of National Day, where unity and perseverance are celebrated alongside the joy of friendly competition!

7. Mini Pirate Ship 

Ahoy, mateys! Step aboard the Mini Pirate Ship and set sail on a thrilling adventure that will ignite the imaginations of young buccaneers and pirate enthusiasts alike! 

The sturdy wooden planks creak underfoot as the ship sways gently, adding an authentic touch to their imaginations! This immersive experience not only sparks creativity but also fosters a sense of exploration and daring among the young adventurers. 

Incorporating this interactive attraction into your event not only entertains young adventurers but also pays homage to Singapore’s maritime history and cultural heritage! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the adventurous spirit that runs deep in our nation's history, encouraging all to embrace their inner explorer and create lasting memories of camaraderie and discovery.

8. Lucky Draw and Claw

Test your luck at thrilling Lucky Draw and Claw Games! Whether you're drawn to the anticipation of the spin-the-wheel, the challenge of the claw machine, or the allure of the capsule machine, each game promises an exciting chance to win fantastic prizes. 

Imagine the excitement building as participants eagerly approach the colourful array of games! 

  • Spin-the-Wheel: Vibrant segments promise different rewards or surprises. Players eagerly flick their wrists, anticipating where fortune will lead.
  • Claw Machine: Strategise and manoeuvre the mechanical claw to grab coveted prizes among plush toys or intriguing trinkets. Cheers erupt as prizes are triumphantly lifted towards the dispenser.
  • Capsule Machine: Twist the knob and hear capsules clatter down, adding to the suspense as players crack open capsules to reveal their prizes.
  • One Hand Grab: Dive into the whirlwind of flying balls and grab the luckiest one, each representing a chance to seize victory. Feel the rush as you test your reflexes and aim for that winning grab!

For National Day celebrations, these games add an extra layer of excitement and festivity. They embody the spirit of fun and luck, offering participants a chance to create memorable moments and take home souvenirs that reflect the spirit of the occasion! 

9. Water Soccer Inflatable 

Beat the heat and dive into the refreshing excitement of the Water Soccer Inflatable! Step into a vibrant, inflatable arena where the thrill of soccer meets the splash of water. As participants kick off their shoes and feel the cool mist on their skin, the laughter and cheers of fellow players fill the air! 

The arena buzzes with playful competitiveness as teams strategise and dash across the water-slicked surface. Every kick sends sprays of water glittering in the sunlight, heightening the exhilaration of the game! 

Whether you're a seasoned player or a first-time kicker, the inflatable arena offers a dynamic and refreshing twist on traditional soccer, blending skilful manoeuvres with a splashy, summer vibe! 

10. Soak and Wet Dunk Tank

Prepare for an unforgettable splash-filled adventure with the exhilarating Dunk Tank.

Picture the scene: guests eagerly gathering around, eyes alight with excitement and anticipation. The air is filled with laughter and cheers as everyone waits for their chance to take aim and send someone plunging into a refreshing bucket of water. It's the perfect antidote to beat the heat on a scorching day!

As participants line up, each taking careful aim at the target, the atmosphere brims with friendly competition and playful banter. Every successful throw elicits cheers and applause, creating a lively and spirited environment that resonates with the joy of summer celebrations!

Perfect Fringe Activities For National Day

11. Balloon Sculpting

Prepare to be utterly enchanted by the breathtaking artistry of balloon sculpting! Ordinary balloons are transformed into extraordinary, eye-popping creations! 

Talented artists, with hands as nimble as dancers, twist and shape these colourful vessels into a dazzling array of figures. From playful puppies and soaring birds to towering hats and intricate flowers, their imaginations know no bounds!

The atmosphere crackles with excitement as eager faces watch in awe and anticipation as each balloon sculpture takes shape. The moment a completed creation is handed over is pure excitement- the recipient's face lights up with joy, a testament to the sculptor's talent and the sheer delight of the unexpected! 

National Day is the perfect stage for this balloon brilliance. As the nation comes together, so too do the balloons, creating a vibrant tapestry of colour and cheer. There's something undeniably uplifting about seeing the familiar transformed into the fantastic, and balloon sculpting does just that! 

12. Face Painting

Celebrate National Day with a burst of creativity and joy through Face Painting! Immerse participants into a world where National Day meets artistic expression, as skilled artists transform faces into vibrant symbols of national pride and unity.

For National Day festivities, face painting adds a splash of colour and joyous spirit. Visualise children and adults alike adorned with flags, iconic symbols, and intricate designs that capture the spirit of the occasion! Each brushstroke not only adds colour but also tells a story of heritage and shared identity. 

Whether you choose to wear the Singapore flag with pride or showcase symbols that represent the diversity of our nation, face painting becomes a heartfelt celebration of what it means to be Singaporean! 

13. Air Brush Tattoo

Embrace the thrill of Air Brush Tattoos—a dynamic and temporary way to showcase your National Day spirit or indulge in unique body art!

Experience skilled artists wielding airbrushes to craft intricate designs that instantly grace your skin with vibrant colours and patterns. Every tattoo becomes a colourful statement of joy and individual flair, whether you go for classic symbols, the Singapore flag, or creative themes!

During National Day festivities, Air Brush Tattoos infuse a playful and festive atmosphere! They provide a creative platform for individuals of all ages to express their patriotism and unleash their artistic flair.

Beyond their decorative charm, Air Brush Tattoos foster camaraderie and unity as participants proudly display their temporary artworks. It's a memorable way to commemorate National Day, encouraging connections and conversations among friends, family, and fellow celebrant!

14. Roving Mascots 

Get ready to meet Singapore’s beloved mascots as they roam around the event, spreading cheer and delighting guests with their playful antics and warm personalities! 

Imagine the excitement as children and adults alike spot these iconic Singaporean characters like Merly the Merlion, Vanda Miss Joaquim, or Singa the Courtesy Lion, making their way through the crowd. 

From playful high-fives to impromptu dances, the mascots engage with guests in a way that feels personal and engaging. They embody the spirit of Singaporean culture and heritage, making them not just entertainers but beloved symbols of community and celebration! 

Roving Mascots add a special touch of fun and nostalgia, serving as ambassadors of joy, and connecting people of all ages through their infectious enthusiasm and friendly gestures! Whether you’re capturing a selfie with a mascot or joining in their playful antics, their presence enhances the festive atmosphere and fosters a sense of togetherness among attendees. 

15. Musical Performances 

Prepare to be swept away on a musical journey through the heart of Singapore! Picture a stage ablaze with vibrant colours and pulsating energy, where local talents shine brightly to deliver an unforgettable performance. Feel the anticipation build as the crowd eagerly awaits the first notes of the evening!

To guide you through this musical adventure, engage a charismatic emcee who will weave captivating stories and interact with the audience with infectious enthusiasm. Laughter, applause, and sing-alongs will fill the air, creating a dynamic atmosphere that's as much a part of the show as the performers themselves!

From soul-stirring ballads that tug at your heartstrings to lively anthems that inspire you to dance, the music will be a kaleidoscope of emotions and rhythms. Each performance celebrates our nation's rich tapestry of cultures—a harmonious blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary. Let the music envelop participants as they come together to celebrate Singapore in grand style! 

And of course, don’t forget to capture all these wonderful memories with a dedicated photo and videographer, ensuring every moment of this spectacular event is preserved for years to come!

16. Glitter Tattoos 

Add a touch of glamour and excitement to your National Day festivities with glitter tattoos! Shimmering designs that catch the light and dazzle everyone around. These temporary tattoos are a delightful way to express yourself and add a bit of sparkle to the day! 

Watch as skilled artists apply intricate designs with precision and care, turning arms, shoulders, and cheeks into glistening canvases of creativity. Each glitter tattoo is more than just an adornment—it's a reflection of personal style and celebration, enhancing the festive spirit with every glittering detail! 

Glitter tattoos are not just for the young at heart. Adults can embrace their inner child and revel in the playful spirit of the day, while children can feel like tiny superstars with their sparkling adornments!

17. Photo Booth

Immerse yourself in creativity and celebration with a National Day-themed photo booth! Guests of all ages are invited to dive into the festive spirit as they pose with a variety of props: oversized Singapore flags, iconic landmarks, and playful accessories that add a whimsical touch to each snapshot.

Attentive attendants ensure every detail is just right, from adjusting props to capturing guests at their best angles! As participants depart with their printed photos, they take home more than just a snapshot; they take a cherished memento of the joy, unity, and pride experienced during National Day celebrations! 

These photo booth memories serve as delightful reminders of the festive atmosphere, capturing moments of laughter, camaraderie, and national spirit in every shot.

Fun and Interactive Arts and Crafts

  1. Art Jamming
Picture Source: iStock

18. Art Jamming

Dive into a world of artistic expression with a captivating art jamming session! Here, guests are encouraged to unleash their creativity as they pick up brushes and paints to craft their own National Day-themed masterpieces.

Picture a vibrant array of canvases spread out, each waiting to be transformed into artwork that captures the essence of Singapore. Whether depicting the Singapore Merlion or intricate designs inspired by local flora and fauna, every brushstroke tells a story of national pride! 

Beyond simply painting, the art jamming experience fosters self-expression and strengthens community bonds. Laughter and lively discussions flow freely as participants immerse themselves in their creations, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

As the session draws to a close, each guest takes home not just a painting but a tangible symbol of their participation in celebrating National Day. These artworks become cherished mementoes, serving as reminders of the creativity, camaraderie, and collective pride shared during this unforgettable event! 

19. Coaster Making

Step into a delightful coaster making activity where guests can immerse themselves in crafting personalised coasters decorated with vibrant colours and National Day motifs! 

The tables will be filled with blank coasters eagerly awaiting the touch of creative hands, offering paints, markers, and stencils to unleash imaginations! Each coaster becomes a unique expression of artistic flair and national pride, whether depicting iconic Singapore landmarks or the national flag itself.

But coaster making isn't just about creating beautiful designs; it's a hands-on experience that fosters creativity and camaraderie. As guests mingle and exchange ideas, the room fills with laughter and lively conversations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere!

At the end of the session, participants proudly take home their handcrafted coasters. These personalised keepsakes serve as cherished mementoes, evoking memories of a fun-filled day celebrating National Day!

20. Photo Frame Making

Let guests indulge in the creative fun of photo frame making, where they can design and decorate their own frames to perfectly complement their event photos taken at the photo booth!

The station is filled with blank frames, eagerly awaiting transformation into unique works of art. With a delightful assortment of colourful paints, glittering embellishments, and themed stickers available, participants are encouraged to unleash their creativity and personal style! 

Each frame becomes a canvas for self-expression, whether adorned with National Day motifs such as the Singapore flag, iconic landmarks, or vibrant cultural symbols. As guests meticulously craft their frames, laughter and conversation fill the air, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere where memories are not just captured but creatively celebrated! 

This hands-on activity offers guests an opportunity to craft something meaningful and personal. Each completed frame not only enhances their event photos but also serves as a cherished token! 

21. DIY Shrink Art

Guests unleash their creativity with DIY shrink art, an engaging and interactive activity that promises to captivate guests of all ages! They start by designing their own unique creations on special shrink plastic sheets, using vibrant markers and imaginative designs.

After completing their artwork, the excitement builds as everyone watches their creations shrink and transform in a conventional oven, magically condensing into durable, miniature versions of their original masterpieces!

Participants can select from a variety of templates and themes, featuring National Day symbols such as the Singapore flag and iconic monuments. As they meticulously trace, colour, and embellish their shrink art, the room fills with lively conversation and enthusiastic exchanges, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere!

22. Window Art

Let guests’ creativity shine with window art, a delightful activity that adds a burst of vibrant colour and celebrates the spirit of National Day in a fun and interactive way!

The tables are adorned with an array of colourful paints, brushes, and stencils, inviting guests to unleash their artistic flair on washable window canvases. From bold renditions of the Singapore flag fluttering proudly in the breeze to intricate designs inspired by local murals and cultural motifs, each stroke of paint transforms ordinary windows into vibrant displays of national pride and creativity.

The beauty of window art lies in its versatility and temporary nature. As the paint dries, guests can admire their handiwork from both inside and outside, enjoying the vibrant colours that add a festive touch to any setting! 

23. Tote Bag Making

Embark on a creative journey with tote bag making, where guests can immerse themselves in the delightful process of fashioning their own personalised tote bags adorned with vibrant National Day themes! 

Participants of all ages are invited to showcase their imagination as brushes glide across blank canvases, blending colours and bringing designs to life! The air is filled with the sounds of laughter and lively chatter, creating an atmosphere buzzing with creativity and camaraderie that adds to the festive spirit of the occasion. 

Each completed tote bag transcends its practical purpose to become a wearable piece of art, a testament to the creativity and unique artistic expression shared during Singapore’s rich heritage celebration! 

24. Event Decorations

Event decoration plays a crucial role in setting the scene and creating an immersive environment that captivates guests from the moment they arrive! Enhance the atmosphere with a dazzling array of event decorations, featuring vibrant air dancers, majestic inflatable arches, and themed backdrops that promise to transform any venue into a spectacle of celebration and festivity.

Imagine the excitement building as guests are greeted by:

  • Playful air dancers: Swaying in the breeze, their vibrant colours adding a dynamic flair to the surroundings.
  • Themed backdrops: Further elevate the ambiance, providing picture-perfect settings for capturing memorable moments throughout the event. Whether decorated with iconic Singapore landmarks, cultural motifs, or celebratory themes, these backdrops serve as focal points that invite guests to step into the spirit of the occasion and create lasting memories.

Together, these event decorations not only enhance the visual appeal of the celebration but also contribute to the overall immersive experience, ensuring that every corner of the venue reflects the joy, pride, and festive spirit of National Day in Singapore!

Flavourful Delightful National Day Treats 

Picture Source: Freepik

25. Live Food Stations

Treat your guests on a culinary journey with live food stations featuring beloved local favourites! From the irresistible aroma of sizzling satay to the comforting flavours of fragrant chicken rice and the delightful sweetness of kaya toast, these freshly prepared dishes embody the essence of Singaporean cuisine. 

Here are some examples of local treats that are loved by everyone:

  • Satay: Skewers of tender, marinated meat grilled to perfection, served with rich peanut sauce and aromatic rice cakes.
  • Rojak: A colourful salad of tropical fruits and vegetables, drizzled with a sweet and tangy dressing and topped with crunchy peanuts.
  • Kacang Puteh: A nostalgic snack mix of roasted nuts and beans, offering a delightful crunch and savoury flavours.
  • Tutu Kueh: Steamed rice cakes filled with sweet fillings like coconut and peanuts, a favourite traditional dessert.
  • Teh Tarik: Pulling tea to perfection, this frothy, sweetened tea is a local favourite served hot and comforting.
  • Bandung: A refreshing pink rose syrup drink, perfect for quenching thirst and adding a touch of sweetness to the palate.

These live food stations not only offer a taste of Singapore’s culinary delights but also create a vibrant and interactive dining experience for your guests. Each bite is a memorable part of your event, ensuring everyone leaves with a taste of Singapore’s rich food culture! 

Creating Unforgettable Moments with FunCo Singapore

With these 25 activities meticulously planned for your National Day celebration, you're set for an unforgettable blend of entertainment, creativity, and community spirit! 

From engaging games to immersive cultural experiences and vibrant artistic endeavours, each activity is designed to foster joy and pride. So, gather your loved ones, prepare for a day filled with laughter and meaningful connections, and commemorate our nation's heritage with flair and enthusiasm!

Want to find out more about planning your National Day event? Contact us at FunCo Singapore today for personalised event planning and rental options tailored to your needs!

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