It’s Singapore’s birthday month and “the road ahead” is buzzing with a vibrant mix of arts and culture events. That’s why you can always “count on (Catch) Singapore” to bring you the top events in August to elevate your festive spirit! (Pardon the puns – we are proudly in our patriotic era.)
Catch of the month: Best things to do to celebrate Singapore’s birthday this August 2024
1. ArtsEverywhere@CDC (3 Aug - 20 Oct)
There’s no need to travel far to enjoy the jubilance – ArtsEverywhere@CDC is bringing the best of arts and culture straight to your doorstep! Experience the rhythmic beats of Malay drumming, the bustling energy of Indian fusion music, the serene melodies of Chinese chamber music, and so much more in five districts around Singapore.
Catch all "ArtsEverywhere@CDC" programmes in your heartlands. Admission is free.2. Cheong Soo Pieng Layer by Layer (5 Apr - 29 Sept)
Start your celebrations with the masterpieces of Cheong Soo Pieng, a pivotal figure in Singapore’s art history. Zoom into the secrets behind his paintings at the National Gallery Singapore, and break down his unique compositions, layer by layer.
Catch "Cheong Soo Pieng Layer by Layer". Admission is free.3. Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection (19 April - 25 Aug)
What’s a birthday party without gifts? And what’s Singapore without a diverse mix of cultures? Discover the elegance of Fukusa – silk covers used in Japan’s Edo period to present gifts with style and symbolism. Catch this exhibition by the Asian Civilisations Museum and Peranakan Museum and bask in the beauty of these stunning Fukusa pieces and Japanese textiles.
4. National Day Concert: Legacy and Future (11 Aug)
Celebrate Singapore’s rich musical heritage with a nostalgic look-back while forging ahead to a promising future with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s National Day Concert. In collaboration with Temasek Foundation, this concert features emerging young musicians from school choirs and bands, blending classic and fresh sounds.
5. Playing With Fire (15 - 25 Aug)
In our clean and green nation where nature meets urban life, this thrilling production delves into the hidden costs of progress. Watch as young writer Sue Rozario uncovers truths that’ll make us all the more appreciative for our garden city.
6. Istana Heritage Gallery (July 2 - Dec 31)
Experience the rich history of the Istana, Singapore's official presidential residence and a National Monument since 1992, through the Istana Heritage Gallery. Discover its storied past, architectural marvels, and a collection of valuable state gifts from our global friends and partners.
Catch the exhibition at the Istana Heritage Gallery located at the Istana Park along Orchard Road. Admission is free.7. Sing Lit Cloud (Aug 1 - 31)
Presented by Sing Lit Station, “Sing Lit Cloud” offers a unique experience with standing printers that produce pocket-sized excerpts of Singaporean fiction and non-fiction on demand, in support of our talented local writers this month. Select a story from the summaries displayed on screen or let the machine surprise you with a randomised option.
We hope our picks this month will make your National Day celebrations even more joyful and meaningful.
Image Credits: National Arts Council, SISTIC, National Gallery Singapore, Peranakan Museum and Singapore Symphony Orchestra, President's Office, The Esplanade Co Ltd