9 places to watch NDP fireworks that are not Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade & Gardens by the Bay

This year, the National Day Parade (NDP) will be held at the Padang and fireworks will be set off from three different places, including the Singapore River.

If you're tired of the usual locations to view the fireworks and don't want to elbow your way through the large crowds, here are our best-kept secret locations to watch the sky light up.

Though, we can't guarantee it'll be as empty as before, now that we've revealed them to you. 

1. FUNAN MALL

What was supposed to be a curious visit to the urban farm on the seventh level of Funan, turned out to be a vantage point to view the NDP fireworks.

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The urban farm overlooks the Marina Bay, and even though the surrounding buildings block the views of the parade, you'd still be able to see the fireworks peeking from above the buildings.

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The rooftop garden, a few levels higher, is a little quieter and there are some lounge chairs to cosy up while watching the fireworks.

2. BENJAMIN SHEARES BRIDGE

Benjamin Sheares Bridge is a strategic location to watch the fireworks as it overlooks the Bay area.

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Camp out with a trusty camera along the bridge and make sure you find a spot where you can capture the entirety of the display.

3. VICTORIA THEATRE

Victoria Theatre is just a four-minute walk away from Padang.

The proximity to NDP will not only make you feel like you're part of the celebrations, but you'll also be treated to the fireworks display right before your eyes.

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4. MARINA SOUTH PIER

If you've ever taken smaller scale ferries and boats from Marina South Pier, you'd know that it has views of the Central Business District (CBD) at the front and the sea at the back.

Head up to the roof garden and secure a spot where it faces the CBD, and enjoy the fireworks away from all the hustle and bustle.

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5. MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE CARPARK

Not to be confused with Marina South Pier, the Marina Bay Cruise Centre gives you a panoramic view of the CBD as well.

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While you're camping out at the carpark and feeling a little bored from waiting for the fireworks, the symmetrical roof structure is perfect for snapping some pictures for the 'gram.

6. HIGH STREET CENTRE CARPARK

This year, the fireworks will peek out from behind the Parliament House, and the High Street Centre carpark located just opposite offers a postcard-worthy view.

VIEWS FROM HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT BLOCKS (HDBs)

We asked a colleague, who is an avid photographer and fireworks chaser, and here are some of his favourite spots.

7. BLOCK 233, BRAS BASAH COMPLEX

The HDB block above Bras Basah Complex is closely located to the parade, but slightly away from the bustle of the crowds, making it an ideal location to soak in the atmosphere. 

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8. BLOCK 15, FARRER PARK ROAD

If you have no qualms about watching the fireworks from afar, block 15 at Farrer Park Road has unobstructed views of the city as it is surrounded by shophouses.

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9. BLOCK 79E, TOA PAYOH CENTRAL

The highest HDB blocks in Toa Payoh is 40 floors high. Out of all the blocks in that estate, block 79E offers a sweeping view of the city where you'll be able to view the fireworks display.   

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FIREWORKS IN THE HEARTLANDS ON AUG 10 

Residences living in Bishan, Geylang Serai, Jurong East, Punggol and Woodlands, you're in for a treat.

The mobile column will be making its way to the various National Day Carnivals and bringing the fireworks to your neighbourhood. 

The display will last about four minutes at each location.

ALSO READ: There’s a petition to make Mr. Brightside the NDP 2020 song, so you know what to do

melissagoh@asiaone.com