National Day 2011

Singapore celebrated its 46th year as an independent nation on August 9th and we happily joined the locals in the festivities.

Between the longer visit to the US and the fact we don't live on the river anymore, we missed most of the preparations for the big day. In previous years we were able to watch the "dress rehearsals" of the event from our rooftop terrace, complete with practice fireworks. Singapore traditionally holds a musical ceremony in a stadium for its citizens (you have to enter a lottery for a chance at a seat), a parade leading into the same stadium and various demonstrations of its national defense. This year we had to venture down to Marina Bay to see the action.

Brian's client moved offices earlier this year and they now occupy several higher floors in a new complex called the Marina Bay Financial Centre. Brian took us up to the 50th floor of the building the last Saturday evening that they practiced the National Day show across the bay at the floating stadium so we had a great view when Singapore showcased its military air craft. Unfortunately we missed the rehearsal fireworks while eating dinner so we promised the girls we would return to the bay on National Day for the real deal.

Marina Bay - the floating stadium is directly across the water and was filled with people watching the final National Day Parade rehearsal.

On National Day, we enjoyed a leisurely Tuesday as a family and then packed a picnic dinner and took the subway down to Marina Bay. We weren't the only ones with the great idea to spread out a blanket and watch the show across the bay but thankfully we had plenty of space. And just for fun, I bought Singapore flag temporary tattoos so the girls all happily adorned their faces with them for the occasion.

Of course we saw the huge helicopter carrying the Singapore flag, some mean new helicopters (think Apache) and the always impressive jet flyover. Apparently loud jets are a universal crowd favorite. Once the noisy planes were gone, it was a long hour wait for the fireworks. The Singaporeans with seats at the Floating Stadium watched a stage performance but when you're sitting on a blanket on the opposite side of the bay with no view of anything, boredom set in a bit for the younger Deans.

We were relieved when the fireworks finally lit up the skyline and while the show was brief, it was impressive. Red, gold and silver dominated the sky over Marina Bay and the fireworks all appeared to hold extra sparkle. The Asians know how to do fireworks!

Happy 46th Birthday, Singapore! You're looking great...