SINGAPORE - Singaporeans can mark an extra long weekend this year, as the President has declared August 7 a public holiday to celebrate SG50.

This will make for an extended Jubilee weekend over four days - from Aug 7 to 10 - so Singaporeans can participate in commemorating the nation's 50 years of independence.

Over the long weekend, special programmes have also been prepared for Singaporeans around the island. Museums and heritage galleries will remain open during this period, along with special programmes at the Marina Bay Area, Singapore Botanic Gardens and the Singapore Sports Hub.

There will also be special concessions of up to 50 per cent at attractions such as the Jurong Bird Park and the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay, as well as free admission to the National Orchid Garden, Science Centre, and ActiveSG swimming pools and gyms islandwide.

"I am pleased that we can have the SG50 Public Holiday and a Jubilee Weekend filled with meaningful and inspiring activities, for Singaporeans to come together and celebrate as one. I hope everyone will take part in the activities and events organised around the island, and spend this special time together with your loved ones," said Minister Heng Swee Keat, chairman of SG50 Steering Committee, on Saturday.

Click here for full infographic of Jubilee Weekend programmes

On his Facebook page, Mr Heng, who is also Education Minister, said: "During this Jubilee Weekend, Singaporeans can look forward to special programmes islandwide to celebrate our family, our friends and our home. We also have special concessions at public attractions and facilities. Please see www.singapore50.sg to learn more."