SINGAPORE - Some 7,000 people unrolled their picnic mats in West Coast Park on Saturday evening, at a family bonding event organised by the labour movement's U Family division.

The U Picnic event is into its third year, and included a laser light show, games and performances. Families received picnic baskets which included food and recipe cards.

National Trades Union Congress secretary-general and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Lim Swee Say attended the event, which ties in with Children's Day.

Ms Toh Hwee Tin, director of the U Family unit, said in a statement: "It is especially encouraging to see so many parents celebrating (Children's Day) with their children even though it is in the midst of school examinations.

"We believe that family activities are essential building blocks for a family's identity, sense of belonging and (for) cultivating positive values, and we must not neglect the constant need to always bond as a family."