Weekend Wonders (Aug 20–22): Stay Safe & Explore Lifestyle Trends

Weekend Wonders (Aug 20–22): Stay Safe & Explore Lifestyle Trends

National Day Parade 2021 – Let’s Get Ready to Celebrate

The National Day Parade kicks off this Sunday, August 21, and it’s going to be a colossal showcase with just under 1,200 performers on stage. Whether you’re a fan of dazzling live acts or curious about the virtual twists, there’s something for everyone.

What Makes This Edition Extra Special

  • Live & Virtual Fusion – Half the show is straight‑up live, the other half is streamed in from different hotspots.
  • Augmented Reality Magic – First time ever, AR will pop out right next to the floats.
  • Fully Animated Film – A brand‑new animated segment will play in the sky, giving you a movie‑like experience.

These high‑tech treats are what I’m calling the parade’s “sibei cool” factor.

Staying Safe While You’re Out

If you’re planning to trot out to The Float @ Marina Bay, brace yourself for a lock‑down of security and socially‑distanced zones to keep the crowds from getting too close.

Go on, it might be safer and way easier to prefer a comfy couch and celebrate from the TV at 6:05 pm. Grab your snacks, pop that popcorn, and boom – you’re in the heart of the event from the best seat in the house.

What Else is in Store This Week?

Not just the parade; this week on the festive calendar there’s a whole lineup of family‑friendly activities and community celebrations. From fireworks displays to street food markets, keep your eyes peeled for local highlights and community highlights.

Enjoy the fireworks, cheer for the performers, and if you’re looking for more up‑to‑date info, keep an eye on the official National Day Parade socials or the local news sites. Let’s make this National Day unforgettable!

1. Gardens By The Bay offers free entry to all nurses

A Thank‑You Blossoms: Free Entry for Nurses at Gardens By The Bay

Hey there, nursing superstars! Gardens By The Bay is tipping its hat to you—and to every frontline hero—in the grandest, greenest way possible.

What’s the Deal?

  • Free admission to the stunning Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.
  • Just show up with your Singapore Nursing Board practising certificate and the booking confirmation for your chosen time slot.
  • Drop by the entrance and the gates will open just for you.

When Is This Happening?

The offer runs until August 31, 2021—so grab your ticket before the flowers go offline.

Why Gardens By The Bay?

Run the stress out in a world of orchids, misty trees, and panoramic views. It’s a perfect reset after the nonstop hustle of the frontlines.

Extra Sweetness

From August 14 to August 31, nurses can swing by for flower‑filled delight without spending a cent.

So, tuck that certificate in your bag, book your slot, and step into a bloom‑fantastic day of relaxation—your well‑deserved “thank‑you” is waiting in the wings.

2. Seven buildings in the Bras Basah-Bugis precint get lit

Singapore Celebrates 56 Years of Independence – Lights Up the City!

Picture this: the whole city lights up like a fireworks display, but with a classy twist of red and white. That’s exactly what the National Heritage Board has planned for August – a spectacular, IG‑worthy glow that turns our beloved Little Red Dot into a shining star.

The Grand Parade of Lights

For the entire month, seven iconic buildings in the buzzing Bras Basah‑Bugis area will be bathed in patriotic colors. Here’s the lineup:

  • Central Fire Station – because even our heroes deserve a glow‑up.
  • Cathedral of the Good Shepherd – the holy place gets a holy glow.
  • National Museum of Singapore – a walk down history with a splash of red & white.
  • National Design Centre – design meets design brilliance.
  • Stamford Arts Centre – creative lights for creative minds.
  • Objectifs – Centre for Photography and Film – because we all love a good shot.
  • The Cathay – just in time for the big climax.

Why This Matters

Every brick, every facade gets a patriotic makeover, reminding us how proud we should feel about living in a place that proudly stands in the world spotlight. It’s a reminder that we’ve built an amazing nation, and together, we’re lighting up the journey—literally!

Ready to Snap and Share?

Cap the moment with your phone, tag your post with #IGworthy, and spread the festive glow across the internet. Let’s show the world our light‑up love!

3. Re-discover your Chinese roots on this new tour

Discover the One‑of‑a‑Kind Chinese Singaporean Culture

Think you know everything about Singapore’s Chinese heritage? Think again. Join the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) on a brand‑new tour that’ll show you why this culture is truly special.

Where It All Begins

Kick off your adventure at the SINGAPO人 exhibition, a gateway that opens the door to a journey through vibrant zones and a scenic walk to the historic Telok Ayer. You’ll learn the story of early Chinese migrants and how they helped shape Singapore into the bustling hub it is today.

Beta, Eat, Repeat

  • Sample local delights: you’ll get the chance to taste the culinary highlights that have been simmering in the community for decades.
  • Get insights: discover the contributions of the Chinese community to Singapore’s growth, from the early days to the modern era.

Price Tags & Perks

Every trail is priced at just $30 per person. For the premier squad, there’s an option to book a private session—a full‑on tour with exclusive snack samplings for up to 20 people, priced at $600. Yep, you’re basically paying for an exclusive “behind‑the‑scenes” experience.

Sweet Touches

Got a Singapore Rediscover voucher? You can redeem it to keep your ticket price lower. Just pop it into your booking.

Act Fast!

Open until December 25, 2021. Grab your spot before the countdown hits zero. Explore how tradition meets modernity in one unforgettable walk through Singapore’s Chinese heritage.

4. Perfect for the kids: Colourful lights, LED projections and glow-in-the-dark decals

Get Ready for a Sensory Explosion at Kiztopia’s 2nd Birthday Bash!

Hey parents and little adventurers! Kiztopia is freshening up its flagship play areas for the big two‑year anniversary, and it’s about to light up your world—literally.

What’s the Buzz?

  • Glow‑in‑the‑dark Fury: Think jungle vines that actually shimmer, slime that sings, and slides that glow—everything is ready to flicker, sparkle, and amaze.
  • Lights, Camera, Action! Catch dazzling light projections that turn the walls into ever‑changing canvases of color and imagination.
  • Stage‑Scream Spectacular: Live performances that will have kids laughing, clapping, and maybe even doing a little dance‑off. The performers are too cool for their own good.
  • Special Party Room: A private booth that only the birthday crew can access for a full hour, complete with the coolest décor lights and an atmosphere that makes every kid feel like a superstar.

Everything You Need to Shine: Birthday Packages

If you’re aiming for the most epic party—think of it as the Wi‑Fi of birthday celebrations—Kiztopia offers a special package with:

  • Glowing Gift Bags that glow like moonlit mushrooms. Your guests will start jingling before they even open the presents.
  • Exclusive Party Room Access for one hour—full control of the lights, music, and the decisions on which game gets played.
  • Customizable Themes to suit any superhero, space explorer, or fairy‑tale fan.

Why You Should Bring Your Kids

Picture a room where every corner is a new adventure, every light is a portal to imagination, and the fun is so contagious that even the shy kids get their giggles out. Kiztopia’s revival is all about turning ordinary play into everything light‑splashed wonder fused with exciting performances.

All the excitement, no hacks—just pure, glowing, playful fun. Kids (and parents) will definitely want to stay for the after‑party lights.

Find Out More

Want to see the full lineup of lights, games, and gigs? Head over to the Kiztopia website and check out the latest plans, prices, and booking details. Get ready to bring your little one into a world of glitter, excitement, and unforgettable moments!

5. Things are about to pop-sicle off 

Indulge in a Sweet Escape at Singapore’s New Museum of Ice Cream

Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. If you’re a fan of frosty treats or hunting for the next Instagram‑worthy backdrop, the Museum of Ice Cream Singapore just opened its doors, and it’s a total candy‑land for both your taste buds and your camera roll.

Why It’s a Must‑Visit

  • Sprinkle‑Splashing Pools – Dive into a shimmering basin full of rainbow sprinkles.
  • Banana‑Split Forest – Wander through a canopy of banana‑split‑topped trees.
  • Giant Bouncy Castle – Bounce your way through a massive, fluffy castle that’s just begging for a steady‑state selfie.
  • …and a whole lot more surprises that make the whole place feel like you’re strolling through a gigantic sundae.

Tickets & Pricing

Single admission starts at $42. If you’ve got a squad, bring them along—four friends or more get it for a sweet $38 per person.

Those tiny snack‑lovers hideen under the age of two come in for free, so your side‑kick can taste the fun without costing a penny.

Ready to Join the Sweet Party?

Want the latest scoops, opening hours, and practical tips? Find out more here and plan your visit to the coolest museum on the island.

— Originally featured on Wonderwall.sg