The main Hari Kebangsaan celebrations take place at the large stadium in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. Thousands of people fill the stands and watch an impressive parade with marching bands, military formations, colourful floats, and performers in traditional costume from Brunei's different communities. The national flag is raised ceremonially to cheers from the crowd.
Schools play a very important part in the National Day celebrations. Students practise for weeks before the event, learning drill formations, traditional dances, and coordinated flag displays to perform in front of the whole nation. Being selected to participate in the official parade is considered a great honour for students and their schools.
In the evenings, fireworks light up the sky above Brunei Bay, and families gather to watch together. Streets are decorated with flags and lights in yellow, white, and black — the national colours. Food stalls open late, music plays in the parks, and the whole country takes time to feel proud of everything that makes Brunei unique.