Every National Day, we celebrate how far Singapore has progressed, from small fishing village to modern metropolis.

However, the path towards progress is not without sacrifice. Over the years, many establishments well-loved by Singaporeans, such as the old National Library, were removed in favour of creating more housing, leisure spaces and transport routes.

Other memorable places, such as the Van Kleef Aquarium, were simply unable to keep up with the competition posed by newer attractions of the day.

Change is constant in a young nation like ours, and it is an ongoing battle to stay relevant or be eliminated.

As we celebrate our 51^st year of progress this National Day, let us not forget how rapidly the landscape we live in changes. Here are 5 places that will be gone by the end of this year.

1. Big Splash

We remember the colourful giant slides that were iconic to the water park.

Built in 1977, it boasted slides that were more than six stories in height, and was the biggest water park in Singapore then. Due to declining popularity, Big Splash was reopened in 2008 as a dining and leisure spot. Its redevelopment saw Singaporeans return, but the opening of Parkland Green in East Coast Park last year saw a downturn in business once more.

Come Oct. 21 this year, when the lease on the site expires, Big Splash will be closed for good.

Before it closes, remember to visit it one last time -- for old times’ sake.

2. Sungei Road Thieves Market

Filled with a ragtag of used paraphernalia, this market originated in the 1930s and was located along Rochor River.

In its heyday, it was reportedly an open secret that stolen items were marketed there (thus the name Thieves Market). Today, it operates along Larut Road and Pitt Street every day from 1pm to 7pm, with (almost) all manner of second-hand goods available for sale. While no definitive date has been set yet, the market is scheduled to be removed completely when Jalan Besar MRT opens in 2017.

Thankfully, it’s not overrun by hipsters selling "pre-loved" items -- it’s still as authentic an experience as in the 1980s where vendors peddle used miscellaneous items -- so go down to experience it before it’s gone.

3. Rochor Centre

It’s a familiar sight between Bugis and Little India. Constructed in 1977, the cluster of four colourful HDB blocks will be demolished come September this year, to make way for the construction of the North-South expressway.

Once a bustling retail centre, it was frequented for religious goods. Today, it's almost deserted, as most residents and tenants have vacated the centre. Nevertheless, the retro-looking, colourful HDB blocks are still a favourite among photography enthusiasts, keen on documenting the iconic buildings before they are gone.

4. Dakota Crescent

Another housing estate due to be demolished this year is one of the oldest in Singapore. Built in 1958 under the Singapore Improvement Trust (before it became HDB), the iconic estate gives off a nostalgic charm, its old school architecture reminiscent of Singapore in the early days of independence. The quaint neighbourhood is home to the Dove playground, constructed in the same mosaic design as its more famous relative, the Dragon playground located in Toa Payoh.

As redevelopment plans were announced last year, many residents have since moved out. With spanking new BTO blocks dominating our skyline now, such an estate steeped in history is a rarity. If you're going for a visit, bring along a camera -- it's a great place to have hipster photos taken.

5. Zouk

Remember the first time you got drunk in a club? Or your 21st birthday party? How about your first book out night? Many Singaporeans do. Fond are Singaporeans' memories of Zouk that news of its impending closure in 2014 sparked an online petition, garnering 16,000 signatures on its first day.

While Zouk will continue to operate, it will move from its current location at Jiak Kim Street to Clarke Quay, by the end of 2016. The globally-renowned, award-winning club has been housed at the Jiak Kim premises since 1991.

The familiar layout of the place, recognisable to many even in a state of drunken stupor and euphoria, will be sorely missed.

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