Heartland parties ring in 2025, flag off SG60

SINGAPORE – From random K-pop dance sessions at the Tampines Boogie countdown to the folding of 2,025 origami paper cranes at Aljunied and Hougang to signify blessings for the New Year, 2024’s heartland countdown events are bigger than ever.

The People’s Association grassroots organisations have curated countdown activities at 17 Housing Board (HDB) venues across the island on Dec 31. This pulls double duty, ringing in 2025 and kicking off year-long events to mark Singapore’s 60th anniversary of independence (SG60).

On Aug 9, 1965, Singapore separated from Malaysia to become a sovereign city-state.

The heartland events are part of the ONE Countdown 2025 national initiative that launches SG60 in multiple locations islandwide, according to the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth in a press statement.

With the overarching theme “Building Our Singapore Together”, SG60 marks nation-building over the years and offers opportunities for citizens to reflect on shared values such as multiculturalism, boldness, resilience and openness.

The 17 heartland parties are organised by more than 1,700 grassroots leaders and community volunteers comprising students, professionals and seniors, creating vibrant and inclusive programmes for residents of all ages.

In 2023, more than 70,000 people shared their aspirations for the new year at the People’s Association’s heartland activities. There were about 28 year-end community events held islandwide.

In 2024, apart from heartland centres, Singaporeans can also check out other ONE Countdown 2025 New Year’s Eve parties at locations such as Marina Bay, Sentosa, Singapore Sports Hub, Clarke Quay and Orchard Road.

For more information on heartland celebrations, residents of HDB and private housing estates can approach their community clubs, residents’ committees, neighbourhood committees and residents’ networks.

Info: Get event updates at

go.gov.sg/PAcountdown2025

The Straits Times scopes out festive highlights for the 17 locations on Dec 31.

5 New Year’s Eve Party Highlights

1. Tampines Boogie night to feature 3,000 dancing residents

Our Tampines Hub and Tampines Central Park
10pm to 12.30am

Tampines residents will usher in 2025 with a fun night bringing families and friends together.

The New Year’s Eve festivities organised by Tampines GRC’s grassroots organisations feature a series of K-pop dance sessions from 10pm till 12.30am called the “Tampines Boogie”, held at the hub’s Festive Plaza.

It will star South Korean singer-songwriter Leejean, as well as local dance-interest groups such as O School and Hello Melo.

Community participation is central to the heartland celebration, with nearly 3,000 residents expected to get footloose and fancy-free in the K-Pop Random Dance event at the sprawling Our Tampines Hub.

Besides the mega dance party, families can also skate at a synthetic rink or write down their New Year’s resolutions on a SG60 Pledge Wall set up at the hub.

Over at Tampines C​entral Park, residents can take in energetic music performances by big band set-up Geylang Ska Syndicate and the Mohano quintet, which will perform K-pop hits from the 1990s to 2010s.

The range of attractions at different nooks in the hub also includes an obstacle adventure segment at the Community Auditorium; movie screenings and cultural performances by local musicians at Festive Plaza; and an exercise marathon at Central Plaza.

The evening will end with a tableau of fireworks. The pyrotechnics go off at midnight at Tampines Central Park, next to the hub.

2. East Coast residents co-create community artwork with graffiti artist Zero

Bedok Stadium
8pm to 12.15am

One highlight of the line-up at Bedok Stadium is the co-creation by East Coast residents of a community artwork called Illuminate 2025 with renowned graffiti artist Zul Othman, who goes by the moniker Zero.

The 45-year-old is one-half of urban art duo Huru Hara, with his wife Laurie Maravilla, 40, also known as Spaz. They are part of a larger street art collective called RSCLS – pronounced “rascals” – which was founded by Zero in 2003. Spaz is not involved in this event.

Huru Hara helps young urban artists gain exposure to the regional street-art scene. Zero is also a part-time lecturer at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.

Ms Charis Koh Jie Ling, 28, organising chairwoman of Illuminate 2025, says it is a great opportunity for residents to connect with one another while also supporting a talented home-grown artist.

“As our theme is about illumination and light, Zero has curated a special art piece for us, to capture the colours and vibrancy of Singapore,” Ms Koh says.

“It symbolises welcoming 2025 with hope and joy as we look forward to celebrating Singapore’s 60th birthday next year.”

Other events lined up by East Coast GRC’s grassroots organisations include midnight fireworks and a nostalgic yet forward-looking celebration at the stadium. There is a dedicated space where residents can pen dreams for their future selves, while older generations can write heartfelt messages on paper to the younger generations.

3. Focus on music, culture and community

Marsiling (Woodlands Stadium)
8pm to 12.30am

The Marsiling-Yew Tee (MY) Countdown promises to be a celebration of music, culture and community for residents.

Mr Jonathan Luke, 29, organising chairman of MY Countdown, says that big names in the local entertainment scene – such as hip-hop artiste Shigga Shay, singer-actress Joanna Dong and singer-songwriter Ben Hum – will add to the festive ambience, alongside fireworks displays and family-friendly activities.

“One of the highlights is a pop-up exhibition of 15 cultural musical instruments which aims to strengthen and support our multi-ethnic arts culture,” says Mr Luke, who is also vice-chairman of the Marsiling Youth Network.

The exhibition offers a glimpse into the rich artistic experiences that residents can look forward to when the Marsiling Community Club’s Community Performing Arts Hub of the North opens in 2026.

“Residents will be able to try out multicultural instruments contributed by our volunteers – including the pipa, erhu, kompang, timbal, tabla and sita.”

4. Hands-on, creative experiences at Nee Soon

Nee Soon (open field next to FutsalArena @ Yishun)
8pm to 12.30am

Nee Soon Countdown 2025 aims to be a celebration of creativity, togetherness and connection, sparking community participation.

The new “Glow Up” zone allows residents of all ages to get creative with mural painting and contribute to a giant community canvas that showcases iconic spots around Nee Soon.

Mr Kok Ping Soon, 54, organising chairman of Nee Soon Countdown 2025, says the event lets residents collaborate artistically and strengthen the community spirit.

In addition to a fireworks display and drone show, Mr Kok, who is also chairman of Nee Soon Link Citizens’ Consultative Committee, says Nee Soon is launching an Interactive Media Art Installation Wall.

“It’s a hands-on experience where residents can explore Nee Soon’s past, present and future through touch-activated animations – a unique way to connect with our shared history and aspirations,” he adds.

“With these activities, we aim to create a memorable and inclusive countdown experience for all – a celebration that brings Nee Soon closer together – and, ultimately, a more united Singapore.”

5. Quilling artwork by 2,025 Queenstown residents and volunteers showcases ties that bind

Queenstown (Margaret Market, Margaret Drive Hawker Centre, and void decks of Blocks 33 to 37 of Margaret Drive)
9.30pm to 12.30am

The celebrations highlight a tribute to Singapore’s Merdeka Generation – those born between Jan 1, 1950, and Dec 31, 1959, who became citizens on or before Dec 31, 1996.

Ten senior residents will receive special invitations to ride to the event in vintage cars.

There is also an art installation featuring quilling materials, created by residents.

Mr Vincent Tham, 42, a member of the organising committee for Tanjong Pagar GRC and Radin Mas SMC for the “Countdown New-tro Night”, says the 2m by 2m art piece showcases quilling works put together by 2,025 residents and volunteers.

“We wanted to create something meaningful that everyone could be part of – a shared creation where residents can add their personal touch,” says Mr Tham, who is also vice-chairman of Stirling Residents’ Network.

“This artwork reflects the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Queenstown, brought to life through collective effort and community spirit.”

More New Year’s Eve celebrations at 12 heartland hubs

1. Hougang (open field beside Hougang MRT station, Exit C)

10pm to 12.30am

Organised by Aljunied Group Representation Constituency (GRC) and Hougang grassroots organisations, the activities are themed “Igniting Sparks Of Hope”.

Aljunied and Hougang residents will come together to fold 2,025 origami cranes with well wishes for 2025. There will also be a video featuring 2,025 wishes from residents as midnight approaches on New Year’s Eve.

Included in the line-up is the debut performance of a new song written by local songwriter Lim Ziyi Zac, who will be accompanied on stage by former Mediacorp actress Ya Hui.

At the stroke of midnight, fireworks displays will welcome the new year.

2. Ang Mo Kio (hard court at Mayflower Market and Food Centre)

9pm to 12.30am

Residents will be treated to a vibrant event space that includes nooks for relaxing, as well as Insta-worthy backdrops featuring a Formula One car, Super Trees and a neon sign photo wall.

Organised by Ang Mo Kio GRC and Kebun Baru grassroots organisations, there will also be carnival games, getai and xinyao performances, as well as modern acts such as a Singapura Samba percussion session.

The sky will be lit up with fireworks at midnight.

3. Bishan Active Park, Bishan Street 23

5pm to 12.30am

The Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Marymount single-member constituency’s (SMC) New Year Countdown Party will feature sports stars from the Lion City Sailors Football Club, who will meet and greet partygoers.

In the performance segment “Bishan-Toa Payoh & Marymount’s Got Talent”, local artistes such as rapper Hiran Raj will take to the stage for a night of rousing music.

Organised by Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Marymount grassroots organisations, the evening will end with dazzling fireworks.

4. Boon Lay (hard court in front of Block 215 Boon Lay Place)

6pm to 12.15am

Organised by Boon Lay grassroots organisations, the countdown party is themed “Be The Spark. A New Start”.

The highlight is a Singapore Book of Records attempt with 3,000 LED clappers lit during the fireworks display. Other special activities include Friendzone conversations and a photo wall for reflections on 2024 and aspirations for 2025.

About 100 River Valley High School students will be planners and facilitators for the event, overseeing 10 engagement booths across two of the four event zones.

Student volunteers will assist seniors who have mobility issues to be included in the countdown celebrations.

5. Bukit Batok (central garden at SkyPeak)

6pm to 12.15am

Organised by Bukit Batok grassroots organisations, the event will feature a “Journey Through Time” countdown that spans five decades.

There will be nostalgic themes of fashion, food, technology, toys and music in installations such as retro snack booths, classic game stations and multiracial performances.

Residents are encouraged to come dressed in outfits that best represent their favourite era.

There will also be a drone show, food trucks, carnival games and live performances by busker Jeff Ng, The ETC and DJ Hojyn.

A time capsule will be created to preserve 2024’s top trending items for future display at the new Bukit Batok Community Club.

6. Bukit Panjang (Senja-Cashew Community Club)

9pm to 12.30am

Organised by the Holland-Bukit Timah GRC and Bukit Panjang GROs, the countdown party includes movie screenings and live band performances by The ETC and Friends, Yokez x The Nobodies and itsLawLeePop, along with a lively dance segment designed for seniors.

The evening is family-friendly, with bouncy castles, carnival games and food stations.

A highlight of the party is when 2,025 residents come together to light up the sky with LED wristbands, accompanied by a drone show.

7. Jalan Besar (spaces around People’s Association Headquarters)

8.30pm to 12.15am

The Jalan Besar GRC and Potong Pasir SMC New Year Countdown Party, organised by Jalan Besar GRC and Potong Pasir grassroots organisations, will feature a celebration of Singapore’s 60-year journey, highlighting the nation’s evolution, resilience and aspirations for the future.

It includes laser show projections on the People’s Association Headquarters facade, narrating key milestones in Singapore’s transformation.

An LED Experience Corner will showcase a Neon Mural Wall co-created by resident volunteers and students from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.

Residents will wave 2,025 star-shaped light sticks aligned with the event’s theme “Towards A Brighter Tomorrow”, symbolising hope and unity in welcoming the new year as a community.

The countdown will culminate in a drone show that illuminates the night sky, accompanied by live performances by The ETC, featuring Tristan Ong. Malay singer-songwriter Didicazli will also take to the stage.

8. Choa Chu Kang (hard court beside Concord Primary School)

8pm to 12.15am

Organised by Keat Hong grassroots organisations, the Keat Hong Countdown Celebrations – Vibe Into 2025 party features live performances by Monty Crew, Angel Vaishilee and Ryan Sufiyan.

Led by community volunteers, the “SG60 Tapestry Of Hope” initiative will be launched to encourage 2,025 residents to contribute their well wishes for Singapore’s 60th birthday.

The highlight will be a volunteer-coordinated New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop, where residents’ hopes for 2025 will be projected on a large LED screen.

The festivities will be capped with a fireworks display at midnight.

9. MacPherson (hard court opposite MacPherson Community Club)

8pm to 12.30am

The party starts with a “Street-Up Up Ceremony”, where Circuit Road will be lit up with fairy lights from New Year’s Eve till Feb 18.

Organised by the MacPherson Citizens’ Consultative Committee, residents of all ages can look forward to a bubble show, carnival rides and performances by artistes including Bonnie Loo, Patricia Mok, Tallin Ang and Lennerd Lim at the countdown celebration.

There will also be a fireworks show to end the festivities on a high note.

10. Marine Parade (hard court in front of Block 46 Marine Crescent)

10pm to 12.15am

The celebration will highlight the grand finale to the year-long “My Marine Parade” project, which showcases the tapestry of community stories in the area.

Organised by the Marine Parade Citizens’ Consultative Committee, the project features an exhibition and bazaar showcasing resident narratives collected throughout the year via social media and grassroots events.

Visitors will be treated to a display of photos, videos and stories that vividly bring the neighbourhood’s past and present to life.

There will also be carnival games, stage performances and a fireworks display at midnight.

11. Punggol West Community Square (hard court beside Block 218 Sumang Walk)

8.30pm to 12.10am

The Pasir Ris-Punggol New Year’s Eve Countdown party organised by Pasir Ris-Punggol grassroots organisations kicks off with a Starlit Family Picnic, bringing together families under the night sky.

Residents can enjoy outdoor performances by the likes of Mr A. Firdaus, also known as The Pyro Guy. He combines flames and chains in a performance of fire-eating, twirling and breathtaking escapes.

There is also live music by Substation Band SG, who connect with audiences through heartfelt performances of music from the 1990s.

Also not to be missed is the T’ang Quartet, one of the top classical string quartets in Asia.

There will also be magic shows, game and craft booths, bouncy castles and a fireworks display.

12. Woodlands (Spectra Secondary School and Woodlands Drive 64)

9pm to 12.15am

The open-air fiesta will feature vibrant music, street performers and pop-up stalls, creating a fun ambience for all ages.

Organised by the Citizens’ Consultative Committees of Woodlands, Admiralty and Sembawang West, the event is curated for families with young children to enjoy dedicated zones equipped with bouncy castles and game booths.

Residents, including students and community partners, will also take to the stage to perform music, dance and cultural acts.

The event will also shine the spotlight on local entrepreneurship, with home-based businesses offering artisanal goods ranging from pastries to handcrafted accessories.

The night will conclude with a fireworks display.