Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay has officially kicked off its SG60 celebrations with a vibrant fusion of floral artistry, cultural heritage, and groundbreaking light art. The festivities began on 31 July with the return of the beloved Orchid Extravaganza at the Flower Dome and the Southeast Asian debut of SPARK — a stunning firefly-inspired light installation by acclaimed Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde.
The launch event was officiated by Minister of State for National Development and Trade and Industry, Mr Alvin Tan.
Orchid Extravaganza: A Floral Homage to Singapore
Inside the Flower Dome, over 6,000 orchids have transformed the space into a blooming tribute to Singapore’s rich botanical heritage. At the heart of the display are three custom-built Supertrees, including a towering 6.5-metre structure that visitors can walk into, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of orchid blooms.
The exhibit features Singapore’s national flower, Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, along with hybrid orchids named after local places and institutions — including Papilionanda Chua Chu Kang and Vanda KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. In a cultural nod, floral installations draw inspiration from the classic Peranakan play Emily of Emerald Hill, complete with recreated interiors and traditional artefacts.
Visitors can also admire prints of Cultural Medallion recipient Lee Hock Moh’s intricate gongbi-style orchid paintings, accompanied by horticultural recreations. His latest artwork, Dancing Petals, Joyful Laughter, was specially created for SG60 and symbolises six decades of Singapore’s unity and growth.
Additional highlights include:
- Gold-plated orchid pieces from RISIS
- Traditional Peranakan attire from Rumah Kim Choo
- Artefacts on loan from the Peranakan Museum
Orchid Extravaganza runs until 31 August 2025 and is supported by Bloomberg. As part of the celebrations, ticket holders to Flower Dome enjoy complimentary access to the Peranakan Museum for a limited time.
SPARK: Fireflies in the City
As night fell, the Supertree Grove Lawn lit up with the magic of SPARK — a breathtaking display of thousands of floating biodegradable light sparks that mimic fireflies drifting in the breeze. The experience, which continues nightly until 3 August, marks the Southeast Asian debut of the internationally acclaimed installation.
Created by Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde, SPARK is a sustainable and poetic alternative to fireworks. The light sparks rise and fall with natural air currents, creating an ever-evolving nightscape. Specially adapted for Singapore’s tropical climate, the installation is made possible by GIC and Tote Board, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Since its debut in 2022, SPARK has illuminated cities like London, Tokyo, Melbourne, and Riyadh — and now, Singapore joins the list during this special SG60 milestone.
National Day Concert – 3 August
Co-organised with Mediacorp, the Ties that Bloom concert celebrates nationhood, family, and friendship. Held at The Meadow, the concert will feature:
- Kit Chan, Taufik Batisah, Hady Mirza, and Charlie Lim
- Family duos including JJ Neo and Lucy Neo, Rahimah Rahim’s musical family, Tay Kewei and Tay Kexin, and Mark Sara and Annetha Ayyavoo
- A special performance by The Purple Symphony, Singapore’s largest inclusive orchestra
Fringe activities begin from 4:30pm, with the concert from 7:30pm to 9:00pm. Admission is free.
NDP Bay Celebrations – 9 August
For the first time, Gardens by the Bay will host a live telecast of the National Day Parade, one of five satellite sites across Marina Bay. Visitors can expect:
- Live performances
- Communal viewing of the NDP
- Family-friendly activities
Event runs from 4:15pm to 9:00pm at The Meadow, also free to attend.
Plan Your Visit
Orchid Extravaganza
- 1 – 31 August 2025
- 9:00am – 9:00pm
- Flower Dome (Admission applies)
SPARK by Daan Roosegaarde
- 31 July – 2 August (8pm – 10pm)
- 3 August (9pm – 11pm)
- Supertree Grove Lawn (Free)
Gardens by the Bay & Mediacorp National Day Concert
- 3 August 2025
- 4:30pm (Fringe activities), 7:30pm – 9:00pm (Concert)
- The Meadow (Free)
NDP 2025 Bay Celebrations
- 9 August 2025
- 4:15pm – 9:00pm
- The Meadow (Free)
