On 9 August, the Diamond Ballroom at CSC @ Tessensohn became a vibrant hub of patriotism and camaraderie as CSC members, Public Service Officers and their families, gathered to celebrate Singapore's 59th National Day.

With the live telecast of the National Day Parade (NDP) lighting up the big LED screen, the indoor setting offered much-needed refuge from the early evening rain. It also provided a comfortable and intimate atmosphere, making it, perhaps, the next best thing to being at the parade itself.

Young attendees enjoying the colouring activity, bouncy castle and game booth fun.

The pre-NDP telecast entertainment included activities such as carnival games, a bouncy castle, and a colouring contest. Both adults and children also enjoyed snacks, including free classic snacks like kacang puteh, potong ice cream, and popcorn.

Ms Kalaivani Rajagopalan with her daughter.

Ms Kalaivani Rajagopalan, a CSC member and Public Service Officer, chose to spend National Day at CSC @ Tessensohn with her eight-year-old daughter. "We can’t join my husband, who is volunteering at the NDP, but at least we can watch the parade here while my daughter enjoys the games and colouring contest," shared the Permanent Resident from Chennai, India, who is on her way to becoming a Singapore Citizen. The claw machine, in particular, was a hit with her daughter and other children, who cheered each other on in their quest to win cute soft toys.

Ms Susan Loh with her grandchildren.

With her pastel purple-dyed hair, Ms Susan Loh was easily spotted among the excited crowd at the claw machine. A CSC member for 30 years and a regular at CSC events, the retired nurse came to the CSC National Day Celebration with her daughter and four grandchildren. "As it’s the long weekend, we wanted something fun for the kids to do today," she said with delight, adding that the event was very “well-organised”.

“The games are free of charge, so the kids could play as much as they want,” said the youthful grandma, who eagerly tried her hand at activities like ‘shooting duck’ and throwing hoops. The evening was also an opportunity for one of Ms Loh’s grandsons to unwind before his upcoming PSLE. "This is his last round of fun before he concentrates fully on his studies," she said.

The CSC National Day Celebration was Ms Julia Tay’s and her family’s first CSC event.

CSC member and Public Service Officer Ms Julia Tay, along with her husband and two toddler sons, opted for the comfort of the Diamond Ballroom over the spectator-filled NDP grounds. "Navigating through the NDP crowds can be challenging with young children. There’s a lot more space here for the kids to run around," Ms Tay explained.

As a new CSC member, this was her first time attending a CSC event. "We came all the way to CSC @ Tessensohn even though we live in the west; we wanted to experience what CSC events are like," she shared. 

For Ms Tay, National Day is all about celebrating Singapore’s independence with her loved ones. "Since my eldest son was born, we haven’t had the chance to bring him to a National Day celebration. So this is a great opportunity for him to experience it," she said.

The CSC National Celebration culminated with the much-anticipated lucky draw. CSC member of 15 years, Mr Tan Hong Chan, clinched the top prize of a 2D1N stay at a deluxe chalet at CSC @ Changi. Other prizes included three Biscotti goodie bags sponsored by CSC Chief Executive (CE), Mr Charlie Ng, and 10 NDP goodie bags sponsored by EXCO member Mr Norman Tan.

Mr Tan Hong Chan (left), top prize lucky draw winner, with our CE, Mr Charlie Ng.

“Although I didn’t manage to get a ticket to the NDP, it’s much more intimate and comfortable here watching the live telecast,” he said. “It was also a chance to celebrate this special day with fellow CSC members and Public Service Officers,” add Mr Tan, a Public Service Officer himself. “National Day is a time to reflect on what Singapore has been through as a country. It’s heartwarming to see everyone celebrating together, fostering a sense of citizenship.”

August babies celebrating their birthdays, sharing the joy of Singapore's National Day.

And the icing on the cake for the CSC National Day Celebration? National Day-themed cupcakes from Biscotti Bakery. These delightful treats were handed out to each attendee, adding a sweet finish to the festivities.

Relive the memorable moments from the CSC National Day Celebration! Visit our Facebook page to view the event photos.

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