A crowd of about 30,000 ushered in the new year at Jurong Central Park, in one of the biggest countdown parties in the heartland.

The celebrations, which included a family carnival and a band competition, culminated in a fireworks display at midnight, followed by a performance from winning band Emerald Street.

Also performing was Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong, who played the electric guitar with youth band Fancy This Progression in the opening act, for the song Wake Me Up When December Ends. Lyrics were modified from the song Wake Me Up When September Ends by American band Green Day.

Many came to the Boon Lay party with umbrellas due to the drizzle earlier at night, while some walked barefoot in the field, which had been made muddy by the heavy rain in the afternoon.

The Boon Lay countdown party, now into its 10th year, was one of the biggest celebrations among the more than 50 in the heartland and featured only local acts.