Here are 7 things to do during the SG50 long weekend

What to do now that there's a long National Day weekend to look forward to?

President Tony Tan declared an SG50 public holiday on Aug 7. For those staying put in the country, there are some fun events to look out for.

Education Minister and SG50 Steering Committee chairman Heng Swee Keat posted about some of the line-up.

"These activities celebrate what we cherish," he said, including "our rich multi-cultural, multi-racial heritage... and all the places around Singapore that hold a special place in our hearts".

Whether it's turning to the air or staying grounded, we highlight seven of the most happening activities that the entire family can enjoy:

1. Catch Singapore's finest pilots in action (plus fireworks!)

You know the SG50 committee means business when one of the highlights of Jubilee Weekend is... the Black Knights.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force's elite aerobatic squad will take to the skies over Marina Bay to thrill crowds with jaw-dropping aerial stunts and manoeuvres.

Throw in a fireworks display and the most thrilling aspects of the National Day Parade are covered.

Great for those who can't get a ticket to the actual event.

2. Summon your science geek

Yes, national museums and heritage galleries will offer free admission to the public.

But for those keen to venture further afield, there's some fun waiting in the western parts.

The Singapore Science Centre is offering free admission and free access to gated attractions.

3. Get a bird's eye view from a cable car

Prefer some scenery instead?

You can enjoy that along with a dose of sand and sea.

On Aug 10, Singapore Cable Car will be offering free rides to Sentosa - great considering a round-trip usually costs $29 for adults ($18 for children aged 3 to 12).

4. Rock out to your favourite NDP songs at the National Stadium

Good National Day songs are evergreen classics.

Get yourself in the mood for this year's NDP: The National Stadium is hosting a Sing50 concert on Aug 7, featuring "iconic songs popular with Singaporeans across the decades".

Sounds good... as long as 2013's cheesy version is left off the list.

5. Travel back in time at the Singapore Sports Hub

The Singapore Sports Hub is spanking new but it promises to take Singaporeans back to the good old kampung days during the Jubilee Weekend.

There will be a community carnival on Aug 8 and 9, with "local games, music and snack from the past 50 years".

Younger generations of Singaporeans, here's a chance to get a firsthand glimpse into what dad, mum, grandma and grandpa used to do for fun.

6. Work out!

If you'd like to break a sweat and tone your muscles, free entry to ActiveSG gyms ma just be your thing.

You can mix the workout up by throwing in a few laps in the water too - ActiveSG swimming pools will be open for free as well.

7. Get in touch with nature

Nature lovers will be chuffed.

Jurong Bird Park is slashing ticket prices by 50 per cent.

While the Gardens by the Bay will also do the same for entry to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, Singaporeans aged 60 and above can enter for free.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens also has several activities lined up, including trails and workshops to showcase its cultural and botanical heritage.

The National Orchid Garden is offering free access too.

This article was first published on March 14, 2015.
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