Ignite The National Day Spirit At Downtown East With Your Favourite Homegrown Characters
Singapore, Jul 5 2023 - March into a reel good time this August and revel in the festivities as we celebrate the nation’s 58th birthday and all things local! Toast to Singapore’s National Day in style at Downtown East as beloved characters Ang Ku Kueh Girl, Otah & Friends and Xiao Pang Ge Ge come together and take the spotlight to showcase the vibrant zeal and diverse cultural tapestry of the nation.
Created by homegrown artist Wang Shijia as well as Singaporean companies Lucid Entertainment and MCC International, these characters first gained popularity appearing in webcomics, pop-up experiences and school roadshows. They have now become iconic in local pop culture, reflecting the amalgamation of flavours and diversity that make our island city truly unique.
Brace yourself for a whirlwind of delight with activities lined up for the whole family, and snap picture-perfect memories with the cute characters.
Then, rejoice further and feast on the king of fruits while cracking up at the 2023 local hit film, The King of Musang King at Downtown East's drive-in flick happening on August 19 (see below).
With their endearing personalities, relatable qualities and humorous antics, these characters have captured the hearts of many Singaporeans and even international audiences, becoming cultural icons that embody the values of camaraderie, resilience, and joy.
Get ready to strike a pose with their larger -than-life character standees that will be at E!Avenue Event Square and E!Avenue Level 1 (near OBAR Entrance) exclusively in August, and share the excitement with friends and family on social media.
Catch the weekend-only National Day songs singalong sessions at 5pm that will transport audiences into the enchanting world of these iconic mascots, where tales of friendship and local traditions come alive (take a sneak peek of their stories below).
Families and children can also look forward to meet and greet sessions where they can interact with their favourite personalities up close - sure to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Don't miss out on these magical interactions that will make your heart sing! Also, redeem a FREE pair of Downtown East Support Local! socks (while stocks last) featuring each of the lovely characters designed in Singapore, with a minimum spend of $50 (NTUC members) or $70 (Link members). A different design will be up for grabs each week in August, with a total of four designs to be collected.
The buzz doesn’t end there! Singapore's well-loved water park is pulling all the stops by bringing in the celebrations where the characters are all decked in their best water park fits, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments with.
Then, gather your squad and dive into a world of life-sized childhood pastimes such as Chapteh, Five Stones and Tic Tac Toe with Ang Ku Kueh Girl, Otah & Friends as well as Xiao Pang Ge Ge, that will keep you entertained for hours.
Plus, receive a limited-edition sticker pack featuring the adorable trio (and friends) when you purchase a special day pass* package at Wild Wild Wet for just $22, inclusive of a free welcome drink as well.
*Wild Wild Wet Day Pass only valid on weekdays, excluding school and public holidays.
Inspired by well-loved Singapore heritage pastry Ang Ku Kueh (红⻳粿), Ang Ku Kueh Girl symbolises blessings of good luck and longevity, just like the traditional snack. With her iconic red outfit and friendly smile, she spreads enthusiasm, warmth and nostalgia wherever she goes. With a thankful heart, Ang Ku Kueh Girl learns that Life is Sweet, especially after overcoming its many challenges.
Otah is a cheeky, young Singaporean otter who loves going on thrilling, whimsical escapades around our sunny island. More often than not, Otah and his friends get themselves stuck in situations that require teamwork, ingenuity and creativity to overcome. Through embarking on these exhilarating adventures, the group forge greater friendships, create unforgettable memories and learn valuable life lessons together.
Xiao Pang Ge Ge is a fun-loving alien cyborg who accidentally landed on Earth after an unknown virus invaded his planet. Despite being alone throughout different eras, his charming positivity always helps him find happiness in life. As a curious and playful cyborg, he created many fond memories with people, food, and at places. The lovable and chubby character with a carefree spirit brings smiles and laughter wherever he goes, and is eager to share his mischievous adventures as well as learn (and eat) together with all his friends!
During the month-long Singapore birthday extravaganza, Downtown East’s signature Drive-In Movie Screening returns with a light-hearted flick that pays homage to our island-city’s much-loved golden fruit: The King of Musang King by Singaporean director Jack Neo.
The comedy film centres on a woman who had unwaveringly tended to the durian plantation left by her late father while she single-handedly raised her three children, until she crosses paths with her neighbour, an ambitious local durian plantation expert, who helps her improve her durian farm harvests and supports her on the family business against challenges.
This heart-warming film that showcases resilience as well as the bonds of family and community is set to bring about an evening of laughter and inspiration.
The fun goes beyond the screen as guests can relish in two complimentary boxes (400g each; vacuum-sealed) of premium Musang King durians while getting immersed in the captivating storyline of the film (where the fruit itself takes centre stage)!
Catch the drive-in movie screening on Aug 19, 7.30pm, at Downtown East's Begonia open-air carpark (along Pasir Ris Drive 3) at just $68 per car (up to 3 persons recommended for an unblocked view), for a truly-rich and indulgent experience like no other.
Moviegoers will also receive a voucher pack worth up to $130, which includes attractive discounts on car services. Only 40 parking lots are available and pre-purchased tickets are required for entry, so pre-book your slots today on Eventbrite.
Exclusively for NTUC members, enjoy $8 off with the promo code NTUC8OFF!
Mark your calendars this August, for Downtown East is the ultimate destination to commemorate the nation's 58th year of independence!