If you’ve ever wanted to step inside the iconic Istana in Singapore, here’s your chance! Circle the date – 12th November 2023 – for the Deepavali Istana Open House. It’s the only time this year when the gates of the Singapore Presidential Palace swing open for the public to explore its rich history and stunning architecture.
An Exciting Day at Istana Open House Filled with Performances and Activities
Deepavali Istana Open House on 12 November 2023 will be a day to remember. There will be captivating instrument, dance, and band performances by talented students from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, St Margaret’s School, Yishun Secondary School, and Bukit Timah Primary School. The Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society and Team Fusion will also present a mesmerizing band performance.
Additionally, award-winning flautists Ghanavenothan Retnam and Tan Qing Lun will captivate the audience with a fusion of Indian and Chinese classical music.
For families, there will be engaging activities such as henna art, candle making, and balloon sculpting. Food stalls, a food truck, and merchandise booths offering limited-edition souvenirs will add to the festive atmosphere.
Explore the Beauty of Istana
Source: National Heritage Board
One special thing about the Istana Open House is the chance to join guided tours of the main building. Starting from 9:30 am until 5 pm, you can explore specific rooms and check out the cool gifts given to Singapore leaders. It’s like taking a journey through time and soaking in the cool stories of this grand palace.
Source: The Istana – Visit Singapore Official Site
But hey, if you’re more of a free spirit, no worries! You can take a stroll around the Istana grounds. Anytime you want! The greenery, covering more than 40 hectares, is like a peaceful paradise. It’s perfect for chilling out, enjoying the pretty views, and spotting cool plants and animals. Whether you’re into guided tours or wandering on your own, Istana’s got something for everyone!
Shop for a Cause at Istana Open House
Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase limited-edition Istana and President’s Challenge souvenirs. From caps to mugs, bookmarks, postcards, notebooks, and more, these unique memorabilia will make the perfect keepsake.
The souvenirs include memorabilia such as:
- Caps
- Mugs
- Bookmarks
- Postcards
- Notebooks
- Umbrellas
- Luggage Tags
- Keychains
- Magnets
Best of all, every sale will contribute to benefitting agencies of the President’s Challenge 2023, supporting various causes such as children, youth, family, mental health, healthcare, eldercare, and disability.
The benefiting agencies, endorsed by President’s Challenge 2023, encompass various sectors, namely:
- Children, Youth & Family
- Disability
- Eldercare
- Mental Health
- Rehabilitation
- Healthcare
- Disability Sports
- Empowering for Life Fund
Istana Open House Ticket Information
Source: The Istana | 360° Tour
During the Deepavali Istana Open House in 2023, Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and children below 4 years old can enter the Istana grounds for free. Other visiting adults will be required to pay an entrance fee of $10 per person, while children aged four to 12 will be charged $2 per entry.
Istana Open House tickets can be purchased at the Istana Main Gate on Orchard Road, exclusively on the day of the Deepavali Istana Open House.
Discover the Beauty and History of Istana
As one of Singapore’s oldest heritage sites, the Istana holds significant historical and cultural value. Its Neo-Palladian style architecture and sprawling green grounds evoke a sense of grandeur and tranquillity. Initially serving as the residence of Singapore’s British governors, it is now the office of the President of the Republic of Singapore.
Source: SEAArch – Southeast Asian Archaeology
Rules for Visiting Istana and Staying Healthy
If you’re not feeling well, it’s better to stay home instead of coming to Istana. Let’s all keep clean by washing our hands and taking care of ourselves.
Remember, there’s no smoking allowed at Istana, and we need to make sure the place stays tidy by not littering. Also, please don’t bring any wheels like bikes or rollerblades — it’s just not allowed here.
And while we love our furry friends, only guide dogs are allowed at Istana. So, leave your other pets at home, and let’s enjoy a safe and healthy visit together!
Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Open Houses
In addition to the Deepavali Istana Open House, there are several opportunities throughout the year to visit the Istana. The Istana Open House is held in celebration of Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa & Labour Day, and National Day. Plan your visits accordingly:
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Chinese New Year Istana Open House: 23 January 2023
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Hari Raya Puasa Istana Open House & Labour Day Istana Open House: 1 May 2023
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National Day: 23 July 2023
Family Day at Istana Open House
Don’t just attend but truly immerse ourselves in the festivities. Cherish those moments of laughter as your child gets their first henna tattoo, capture the pure joy on their faces as they watch the mesmerizing performances, and indulge in the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious treat from the food stalls.
And yes, don’t forget to snag one of those limited-edition souvenirs — a tangible reminder of the day your family explored the wonders of the Istana together. It’s these little moments that make parenthood truly extraordinary.
So, parents, make a date for Deepavali Istana Open House and create memories that will be recounted around the dinner table for years to come.
Here’s to laughter, learning, and the joy of experiencing it all with the ones who matter most — your family!
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