Singapore Public Holidays in August 2026

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Last updated: 09 December 2025

Written by: Circles.Life

4 minutes read

August is one of the most exciting months in Singapore, and in 2026, it comes with a patriotic twist. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has confirmed that National Day will fall on Sunday, 9 August 2026, with a public holiday-in-lieu on Monday, 10 August.

That means a ready-made three-day long weekend from 8 to 10 August, perfect for a short getaway, family celebration, or a well-deserved rest. The National Day Parade and festivities also add an extra buzz across the island, giving you plenty of ways to celebrate whether you’re home or abroad.

In this guide, you’ll find travel ideas, leave hacks, local activities, and practical planning tips for making the most of the August long weekend, all while staying connected with Circles.Life’s flexible mobile plans.

August 2026 Public Holiday – National Day (9 August, Sunday, Observed on 10 August, Monday)

National Day marks Singapore’s independence, and every year the celebrations grow more vibrant. It’s a time to reflect on how far the country has come while enjoying fireworks, parades, and family gatherings.

What to expect

  • The National Day Parade (NDP) is the highlight, featuring flypasts, performances, and fireworks. Tickets are limited, so check updates from official channels early in the year.

  • Expect festive decorations across the city, especially along Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Civic District.

  • Many restaurants and malls offer special promotions and dining deals over the long weekend.

Leave hack

If you’re hoping to extend your holiday, take Friday, 7 August, off. This gives you a four-day weekend (7–10 August),  perfect for a short overseas trip or an extended staycation.

Things to note

  • Roads around Marina Bay and the Padang may be closed for parade rehearsals or the main event.

  • Travel demand increases sharply around the long weekend, so book flights or hotels early if you plan to go abroad.

How to Make the Most of the National Day Long Weekend

The August long weekend is ideal for taking a quick break before the year-end rush begins. Whether you’re soaking in the local festivities or flying out for a mini vacation, a little planning helps you make the most of it.

Planning tips

  • If you’re staying in Singapore, plan your day around the NDP fireworks at Marina Bay or organise a gathering to watch the live broadcast.

  • For those travelling, choose nearby destinations with short flights to maximise time at your destination.

  • Combine the long weekend with one or two leave days for a longer adventure — perfect for destinations like Japan, South Korea, or Australia.

Why August is a good month to travel

Weather conditions across Southeast Asia remain stable, with dry periods in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. If you prefer cooler climates, head further south to Perth or Melbourne for winter experiences.

August’s public holiday is also conveniently timed between midyear and year-end breaks, making it a great opportunity for recharging before the final quarter of the year.

Suggested Destinations for August Holidays

Whether you’re looking for local celebrations or overseas escapes, there’s something for every type of traveller during the National Day weekend.

Where to Go for a 3–4 Day Trip

Destination

Top Things to Do

Duration Needed

Type of Trip

Bali, Indonesia

Beach resorts, spas, surfing, and temples

3–4 days

Nature and wellness

Penang, Malaysia

Food markets, heritage walks, and street art

2–3 days

Cultural and foodie

Bangkok, Thailand

Shopping, temples, and street food tours

3–4 days

Urban and cultural

Da Nang, Vietnam

Beaches, night markets, and Hoi An old town

4 days

Coastal and scenic

Perth, Australia

Wildlife, vineyards, and cool weather

4–5 days

Outdoor adventure

Travel tip: Regional travel tends to spike around National Day. Try booking flights at least six weeks in advance for better deals and preferred timings.

Budget and Booking Tips for August 2026 Travel

As one of the most popular travel months in Singapore, August can get pricey if you book late. Here’s how to save money and travel comfortably.

How to plan ahead

  • Book early: Flights and hotels see a price surge of 20–30 percent close to National Day weekend. Secure your tickets by June for better options.

  • Travel midweek: Flying out on Thursday night or returning on Tuesday morning often means cheaper fares.

  • Bundle your bookings: Platforms like Agoda and Expedia offer discounts for combined hotel-and-flight deals.

  • Redeem points: Use air miles or cashback programs like Circles.Life’s lifestyle rewards to offset costs.

Smart budgeting

  • Set aside a travel fund in July to cover August expenses without overspending.

  • Look for local promotions. Some resorts in Bintan and Johor offer National Day weekend discounts for Singaporeans.

  • Use budgeting apps or CirclesAI to track spending while abroad.

With the right planning, you can celebrate National Day in style without straining your wallet.

Family, Couple, or Friends – How to Spend the Long Weekend

The August long weekend caters to everyone. Whether you want excitement, culture, or relaxation, there’s something for every group type.

For Families

  • Stay local and catch the fireworks from Marina Barrage or Esplanade Roof Terrace.

  • Book a Sentosa staycation with attractions like Adventure Cove Waterpark and the SEA Aquarium.

  • Take a short road trip to Johor Bahru for theme parks and outlet shopping.

For Couples

  • Enjoy a beach escape in Bali or Langkawi for sunsets and spa experiences.

  • Plan a romantic dinner cruise in Singapore while watching the fireworks.

  • Explore Hanoi or Penang for food, culture, and boutique stays.

For Friends

  • Organise a fun group trip to Bangkok or Phuket for nightlife and adventure.

  • Take a villa break in Bintan for beach games and barbecues.

  • Stay in Singapore for a local celebration — host a viewing party for the NDP at home or on a rooftop terrace.

Travel Tips for August 2026 Holiday – Long Weekend

The National Day weekend sees more people travelling, so plan early and stay flexible.

Before You Go

  • Double-check flight times and booking confirmations a few days before departure.

  • Renew passports if they expire within six months.

  • Consider travel insurance for coverage in case of delays or cancellations.

Packing Essentials

  • Lightweight clothing for tropical destinations, or a light jacket for cooler climates like Australia.

  • Power banks, chargers, and travel adaptors.

  • Festive red-and-white outfits if you’re staying in Singapore for National Day celebrations.

Staying Connected

  • Activate roaming on your Circles.Life travel eSIM before departure for instant data access abroad.

  • Download offline maps, local transport apps, and e-wallets for cashless convenience.

  • Keep contact details of your accommodation and emergency numbers handy.

Safety and Health

  • Stay hydrated during outdoor activities or parades.

  • Secure valuables in hotel safes.

  • Respect local customs and check public holiday closures at your destination.

Circles.Life Best Mobile Plans for Holiday Trips

Travelling or celebrating locally is easier with reliable connectivity. Circles.Life offers plans designed for every kind of holiday: simple, flexible, and affordable.

Pick a Plan That Suits You

Travel Type

Plan Name

Roaming / Data

Frequent Traveller

5G Borderless 

100GB roaming + local

Frequent Traveller

5G Plus

15GB roaming + 1TB local 

Weekend Getaways

5G Core

8GB roaming + 400GB local

Longer Vacations

5G Most Unrestricted

12GB roaming + 800GB local

Local Staycations

5G Core

8GB roaming + 400GB local

Why travellers love Circles.Life:

  • Easy activation via the Circles.Life app.

  • No SIM swaps or hidden charges.

  • Reliable coverage for all your travel and sharing needs.

  • Perfect for navigation, streaming, and staying connected with loved ones.

Last updated: 25 November 2025

Celebrate August 2026 the Smart Way

August is one of Singapore’s most exciting months, blending national pride with the perfect travel opportunity. With National Day falling on a Sunday and a Monday-in-lieu holiday, it’s your chance to take a short trip, unwind, or celebrate in style.

Plan early, budget wisely, and let Circles.Life’s travel eSIM plans keep you connected throughout your journey. Whether you’re travelling or staying home for the parade, you can make the August holiday one to remember.

ABOUT THE ARTICLE

Published 2025/12/09

Written by Circles.Life

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