1966
First ever NDP
Singapore’s inaugural NDP took place at the Padang, just a year after independence. The celebration ended with a 21-gun salute and a lion dance finale.
1969
First mobile column display
The parade’s iconic mobile column rolled out for the first time, showcasing newly acquired AMX-13 tanks on the streets.
1970
First state flag flypast
The RSAF made its first aerial flypast at the parade with an Alouette III helicopter flying the Singapore flag across the sky.
1974
First telecast in colour
For the first time, Singaporeans watched the parade in colour on their TV screens, filling homes with excitement and pride.
1976
First parade at National Stadium, first Guard of Honour
The move to the newly built National Stadium saw the introduction of the Guard of Honour contingent and evening performances.
1984
First official National Day song
‘Stand Up For Singapore’ was launched as the first of many original National Day songs that continue to resonate with Singaporeans today.
1989
First Red Lions parachute jump
The SAF’s parachute team, the Red Lions, made a memorable first appearance as they landed right on target at the parade.
2007
First parade at The Float @ Marina Bay
Since the National Stadium was being redeveloped, NDP shifted to the Marina Bay floating platform, with Singapore’s iconic skyline in the background.
2014
First female Red Lion
2nd Warrant Officer Shirley Ng made history as the first woman to jump with the Red Lions, drawing a huge roar of support from the crowd as she landed.
2017
First drone light display at NDP
The parade made history by featuring the first-ever drone light show. More than 300 of them lit up the sky at The Float @ Marina Bay.
2024
First Padang pyrotechnics spectacle
Fireworks and pyrotechnics, once seen only at Marina Bay, lit up the Padang for the first time and surrounded parade-goers with a stunning 360° display.
2025
First live show across Padang and Marina Bay
Fireworks and pyrotechnics, once seen only at Marina Bay, lit up the Padang for the first time and surrounded parade-goers with a stunning 360° display.
First Jump of Unity
As the Red Lions land at the Padang, the naval divers will make a splash into Marina Bay, coming together in a powerful show of teamwork and strength.
SOURCES: NLB, MINDEF PIONEER, RSAF, SG101.GOV, ST, CNA
PHOTOS: ADOBE STOCK, FILE PHOTOS
GRAPHIC: HYRIE RAHMAT, BT