2017 saw the inaugural Civic District Outdoor Festival (CDOF) occupy the precinct, stretching from the Padang to Empress Lawn. The iconic landmarks of the National Gallery, the Arts House, the Asian Civilisation Museum and Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall, were brought to life with a projection trail entitled Hemera's Dream. Over two weekends, the entire precinct was filled with music, dancing, food and art with thousands of visitors and Singaporeans joining in the festivities.