The National Museum of Singapore turns 139 this October, and it is marking the occasion with Stories of Everyday, nine days of festivities running from 10 to 18 October 2026 across the newly revamped Singapore History Gallery and the museum grounds.
Admission to the 139th anniversary celebrations is free, with free entry to the galleries for Singaporeans and permanent residents. The museum is open from 10am to 7pm daily during the celebrations, with last entry to the galleries at 6.30pm.
First look at the renewed Singapore History Gallery
Visitors will be among the first to experience the renewed Singapore History Gallery, which offers fresh perspectives on 700 years of the nation’s past through new artefacts and stories. Among the objects on display are everyday items that trace how Singapore has changed, from a Housing and Development Board lift once found in the nation’s public housing blocks to a traditional Nanyang coffee roasting machine.
The gallery experience is paired with a still from The Lion City 2012-2026 by artist Keith Lourdes, capturing the transformation of Singapore’s skyline over the past decade and a half.
A living room from the past, and a market of curated wares
Step into the National Living Room, an immersive installation recreating a living room from an earlier era, or browse The Living Archive: A Living & Design Market by Of Wonder Wander, a curated selection of ceramics, stationery, art prints, homeware, accessories and food, with a refreshed vendor line-up from 14 October.
At A Lighter Side of History: Voices from the Sea, Orang Seletar artisans share how their deep connection to the surrounding waters has shaped their lives and identities, an intimate dialogue session that ties into the museum’s growing focus on communities whose stories are less often told.
Dance performances, community jamming and a new mascot
The programme also features a participatory dance performance by The Human Expression (T.H.E) Dance Company, community jamming sessions with Ann Siang Sounds, and special in-gallery pop-up characters throughout the celebrations.
Visitors can also meet Stoney, the museum’s new mascot inspired by the Singapore Stone, a National Treasure housed at the museum. Stoney’s larger-than-life installation is set up at the Lawn, and he will wander the museum grounds throughout the celebrations. There is also a drop-in craft activity, Stoney, A Softie at Heart, where visitors can make their own soft toy version with pipe cleaners.
Stories of Everyday follows a year of heritage-focused programming across Singapore’s museums, including student showcases like the TF-NUS Heritage Champions Showcase. For more heritage and museum happenings this month, check out our roundup of things to do in Singapore.
More details on the celebrations are available at go.gov.sg/nms139celebrations. The National Museum of Singapore is located at 93 Stamford Road.
