Benjamin Kheng, Hady Mirza, Olivia Ong and more performing at National Day Concert at Gardens by the Bay on Aug 2

On August 2, Singapore witnessed the return of its beloved National Day Concert, held once again at Gardens by the Bay's The Meadow. This year marked the eighth edition of the event, organized by Mediacorp in collaboration with Gardens by the Bay. The concert, themed around the metaphor of a seed growing into a tree, aimed to reflect Singapore's journey of growth and progress over the years. The event began with a series of family-friendly activities starting at 4.30pm, followed by the main concert beginning at 7.45pm.

The concert featured a diverse lineup of performers, including notable names such as Benjamin Kheng, Hady Mirza, and Olivia Ong, among others. Each artist brought their unique contribution to the celebration, offering a blend of musical talent and cultural expression. Benjamin Kheng performed a reimagined version of his hit song "Not Alone" alongside Shayne Ko, while Hady Mirza showcased his new Malay single, "Tempuh," highlighting themes of loyalty and resilience. Olivia Ong concluded the concert with a heartfelt rendition of the classic National Day song "Home."

The event was hosted by three prominent figures: Ria 897 DJ Fadli Kamsani, 987 DJ Germaine Tan, and actor-host Saravanan Ayyavoo. Their presence added a dynamic energy to the proceedings, engaging both local and international audiences. The concert also included special segments where young talent, such as eight-year-old Muhammad Khalif Khair Abdullah, played a role in narrating the story of the show, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future generations.

After the performances, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and his wife, Ms Jane Ittogi, led the audience in reciting the National Pledge and singing the National Anthem, reinforcing national unity and pride. The evening ended with a community sing-along of cherished National Day songs and a spectacular fireworks display, creating a memorable experience for attendees.

Visitors had the opportunity to participate in various activities throughout the day, including carnival games, craft workshops, and performances by artists like Urban Drum Crew, Rahila Rashun, and Shak. These interactive elements enriched the overall experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for families and individuals alike. Additionally, there were previews of upcoming Mediacorp children's programs, showcasing the organization's commitment to youth engagement and entertainment.

Admission to the concert was free, reflecting the event's focus on inclusivity and accessibility. For those unable to attend in person, the concert could be watched on Channel 5 and mewatch on August 10 at 7.30pm, with a repeat broadcast on August 15 at 5pm. Highlights would also be made available on Mediacorp's social media platforms, ensuring that the spirit of the event reached a wider audience.

While the National Day Concert drew attention to Singapore's cultural and artistic achievements, it coincided with broader discussions about media consumption habits, particularly regarding sports events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to a recent survey conducted by the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE), most respondents opted for free-to-air options to follow the World Cup, with only a small percentage paying for subscriptions. This trend underscores a shift in consumer preferences towards cost-effective and accessible viewing methods, influenced by the availability of free broadcasts and online highlights.