The Down Syndrome Association (Singapore) will mark its 30th anniversary with an attempt to enter the Singapore Book of Records for the largest gathering of people wearing mismatched socks. The record attempt will take place on 28 March 2026 at Suntec Singapore, Tower 1 & 2 Atrium, and is expected to bring together more than 500 participants from across the community.
The event forms part of the association’s World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) celebrations. Observed globally on 21 March, the date symbolises the triplication of chromosome 21 that results in Down syndrome. A widely recognised tradition of the day is the wearing of mismatched socks, which resemble chromosomes and celebrate diversity and the uniqueness of individuals with Down syndrome.
Through the campaign, the association also aims to raise $250,000 to support programmes and services for persons with Down syndrome and their families in Singapore.
The record attempt is part of DSA’s World Down Syndrome Day Carnival taking place at Suntec Singapore. The theme for this year’s celebration, “Our DSA Heart – A Lifetime of Love,” marks three decades of services dedicated to developing, supporting and advocating for persons with Down syndrome and their families in Singapore. The theme also reflects the association’s refreshed core values of Honour, Excellence, Accountability, Respect and Teamwork, and its continuing commitment to the community.
Other highlights of the celebration include a community walk symbolising unity and partnership, as well as performances and activities involving families, community partners and supporters. Members of the public are encouraged to join the celebration and take part in the record attempt in support of the Down syndrome community.
The Guest-of-Honour for the celebration will be Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Social and Family Development. Mr Chua will join an expected crowd of more than 500 participants comprising families, community partners and supporters in marking the Association’s 30-year milestone.
“For 30 years, Down Syndrome Association (Singapore) has worked with the community to serve and support persons with Down syndrome and their families,” said Evelyn Lai, Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association (Singapore). “This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate how far we have progressed together, share our refreshed direction in meeting the evolving needs of the community, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome have access to the support and opportunities needed to fulfill their potential and enjoy a good quality of life at every stage of life.”
The celebration on 28 March forms part of a wider series of activities organised by DSA throughout March in commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day. These include a week-long WDSD Carnival at Suntec Tower 1 and 2 Atrium from 23 to 29 March, leading up to the main celebration on 28 March.
As the national representative agency for the Down syndrome community, the Association plays an important role in supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families, raising public awareness and working with community partners to build a more inclusive society in Singapore.
