National Day Celebrations: Myths, Legends & the Stories That Made Us
This National Day season, we invite you to discover the stories that shaped the Singaporean identity. Unravel the legends surrounding the island’s early beginnings, explore the cultures of the diverse communities that call this country home, and celebrate the living traditions that continue to bind its people together.
Join us for immersive storytelling, hands-on workshops, and performances designed for all ages. Come and be part of Singapore’s story as it celebrates its 61st birthday.
Remember to tag us on social media @natmuseum_sg with #NationalDayatNMS!
Photographs taken during the programmes may be used in the Museum’s publicity materials.
Voyage of Icons: A Projection Mapping by Howie Kim
- 1 – 12 Aug 2026
- Fri & Sat: 7.30pm – 12am | Sun to Thurs: 7.30pm – 11pm
- Front Lawn, Level 1
- Free of charge
Watch the facade of the National Museum of Singapore come alive in a spectacular projection mapping by artist Howie Kim.
Voyage of Icons is an animated projection mapping installation that transforms the National Museum of Singapore into a joyful visual journey through Singapore's folklore and heritage. Through a whimsical, graphic illustrative style, audiences are invited to trace Singapore's story across five worlds – from the founding legend of Sang Nila Utama to tales of resilience and nation-building, and a dazzling vision of a hyper-modern Singapore. The display celebrates the myths and shared stories that have shaped Singapore into what it is today.
This programme is presented in collaboration with HeritageSG. The show is multisensory and features bright lights and vivid imagery. For your safety, please heed all warning signs onsite and do not remove or cross any barriers. The Museum will not be held responsible for any injuries or accidents arising from non-compliance with safety measures. The show may be delayed or cancelled due to inclement weather.
Our Favourite Haunts: Through the Lens of Migrant Workers
- 2 Aug – 13 Sep 2026
- 2 Aug: 2pm – 6.30pm | 3 Aug to 13 Sep: 10am – 6.30pm
- The Concourse, Level 1
- Free of charge
Work Permit and Special Pass holders can enjoy free admission to permanent galleries on 2 Aug 2026 alongside the launch of this exhibition! To redeem, please present your work permit at our Visitor Services Counter.
Now in its fourth edition, the Migrant Workers Photography Festival (MWPF) invites you to view Singapore through the eyes of its migrant community. Featuring a selection of 30 photographs out of over 100 submissions, this year’s exhibition is themed Our Favourite Haunts.
Inspired by the dual meaning of “haunt”, the works showcase scenes of community and belonging alongside wistful, otherworthly portraits – offering a fresh and intimate perspective on the spaces we share.
This exhibition features images that some visitors might find unsettling. Visitor discretion is advised.
Meet the photographers on 2 and 9 August!
Come and meet the people behind the photographs, and listen to their stories and experiences with the spaces that inspired their works.
- 2 Aug, 2pm – 3pm: Sharing by winners
- 9 Aug, 4pm – 4.15pm & 4.30pm – 4.45pm: Sharing by winners
Ticketed Programmes
Half Lion, Half Fish, Wholly Delicious
- 9 Aug 2026
- 3pm – 5pm
- The Salon, Level 1
SGD 49.50 per pax (incl. GST). Recommended for 13 years and above. Children aged 10 to 12 years may attend with a parent or guardian.
Celebrate Singapore’s local heritage and discover the story behind its iconic Merlion in this interactive bento-making workshop.
Guided by experienced instructors, participants will learn simple food decoration techniques and assemble a Merlion-themed bento that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
All ingredients used in the programme are halal-certified. Children accompanied by a parent or guardian will only be entitled to one set of ingredients – if the accompanying adult would like to create their own bento, please purchase a separate ticket.
Once Upon a Shore: The Founding of Singapura
- 9 Aug 2026
- 3pm – 3.45pm & 4.30pm – 5.15pm
- Gallery Theatre, Basement Level
SGD 12 per adult-child pair (incl. GST). Recommended for children aged 4 to 8
A session specially designed for neurodiverse children will be held on 8 Aug. Recommended for cognitive ages 4 to 8. Find out more here.
Legend has it that long ago, a young prince set sail across stormy seas and discovered a magnificent creature on a distant shore – thus began the story of Singapore.
Join us for an immersive retelling of the tale of Sang Nila Utama. Through touch, movement, sound and imagination, young adventurers will embark on a three-part sensory journey: exploring the beach where the prince’s adventure began; braving the waves of the open sea; and arriving at the shores of Temasek to discover the creature that inspired the island’s name. At the end of the programme, participants will be given a craft piece to take home.
Scents of History
- 9 Aug 2026
- 10am – 12pm
- The Salon, Level 1
SGD 35 per pax (incl. GST). Recommended for 13 years and above.
Immerse yourself in the rich aromas of Singapore’s heritage, as you craft a scented candle inspired by the spices that once travelled historical trade routes – as featured in the Museum’s special exhibition, Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City.
Guided by the team from Candle Collective Co., participants will have the opportunity to learn about fragrance notes and scent pairing, explore simple blending techniques, and try their hand at pouring a candle.
Each participant will create and receive a 200ml scented candle with a burn time of approximately 40 hours.
Free Programmes
SG: Decoded
- 9 Aug 2026
- 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 6pm (Redemption counter closes at 6pm)
- The Platform, Level 2
Free of charge. Recommended for ages 13 and above.
Think you know Singapore’s story? Put it to the test! Make your way through the Museum, track down artefacts, and piece together clues that reveal details about the island’s history. More than just a hunt, this activity offers a whole new way to experience Singapore’s past, present and future. Redeem a special enamel pin upon completion of the hunt, while stocks last!
Enamel pin redemptions are limited to one per device upon successful completion of the game. On-site registration required. Preferred timing is subject to availability, and participants may be assigned another slot. We appreciate your understanding as we do our best to accommodate all registrants.
[Drop-in Craft] Click It Forward
- 9 Aug 2026
- 10am – 6pm
- Get Curious Studio, Level 3
Free of charge, contributions welcome
Take home a little piece of the Museum – with a satisfying click! Assemble your own keycap keychain that provides a tactile click with every press, making it both a collectible and stress-reliever.
This activity is free of charge, and we warmly welcome contributions – your generosity will go a long way to support the Museum’s programmes and initiatives.
Each participant will receive one keycap keychain, which includes two preset designs (NMS dome and SG keycap) and one design of your choice, while stocks last. Waiting times may be longer during peak hours (10.30am – 12pm and 2pm – 4pm).
[Drop-in Craft] Myth in the Making
- 9 Aug 2026
- 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 5pm
- Gallery Theatre Foyer, Basement Level
Free of charge. Recommended for children aged 5 and above.
Unleash your creativity and craft your very own Merlion hand puppet to take home as a memento of the National Day celebrations.
Drop by the craft station to colour and cut out your Merlion, and wear it with pride as you enjoy the rest of the festivities at the Museum.
While stocks last. This activity is supported by STAEDTLER.
Beats of the City: A Mini Concert
- 9 Aug 2026
- 4.50pm – 5.30pm
- Front Lawn, Level 1
- Free of charge
Let the music take over as Singapore’s birthday celebrations continue into the evening. Join us for live performances that capture the spirit of Singapore. Groove to the electrifying rhythms of Green Drumming by BEAT’ABOX, Singapore’s pioneer recycled drumming group, who transform everyday waste into powerful percussion. Then, enjoy the warm, witty acoustic pop of homegrown duo Jack & Rai, whose heartfelt lyrics and infectious harmonies express the joys of life in Singapore. Two acts, one unforgettable experience of music, rhythm and national pride.
Live Telecast of NDP
- 9 Aug 2026
- 5.30pm – 8.30pm
- Front Lawn, Level 1
- Free of charge
Lay out your picnic blanket, gather your favourite people and snacks, and watch the National Day Parade live on the Museum’s giant screen.
Please bring an umbrella or poncho, as the telecast will continue in the event of light rain. Kindly dispose all food packaging and waste in the bins provided, and take your belongings as you leave.
Writings on the Wall
- 8 – 9 Aug 2026
- 10am – 7pm
- The Concourse, Level 1
- Free of charge
Be a part of Singapore’s story! Scan the QR code on our LED wall to upload your photographs and well wishes, and watch them appear in a mosaic of voices, memories and hopes shared by fellow visitors.
The Snapshot Corner
- 9 Aug 2026
- 10.30am – 5.30pm
- Glass Atrium, Level 2
- Free of charge
Capture your museum experience at our photobooth! Strike a pose and create a keepsake to take home after the day’s celebrations.
Waiting times may be longer during peak hours (10.30am – 12pm and 2pm – 4pm). Visitors may be asked to return for photo collection at a later time.
Image Credit: National Museum of Singapore
When
Age
2+
Links
Address
Singapore93 Stamford Road Bras Basah, South Singapore 178897
How to get there?
By MRT:
Bras Basah MRT Station (5-minute walk)
Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station (5-minute walk)
City Hall MRT Station (10-minute walk)