Check out the Deepavali Festival of Lights at Little India plus there are a ton of other Deepavali events in Singapore to experience with the family!

One of the biggest festivals in the Hindu calendar, Deepavali (or Diwali) is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Want to experience this colourful festival for yourself? Check out our list of Deepavali events in Singapore to get into the spirit – there’s plenty happening in the Little India district and around town.

         Read more: Kid-friendly Guide to Celebrating Deepavali

↓ Read on for some great 2023 Deepavali events in Singapore to celebrate the Festival of Light!

2023 Deepavali events

1. Little India 2023 Deepavali Light-Up

The Deepavali street light up, is an annual must-see​ in Singapore over Deepavali. Little India is always super colourful but over Deepavali (starting from September 2023) the lights are something else plus look out for the colourful peacocks guarding Serangoon Road. The Deepavali lights will switch on daily from 7pm till midnight. If you are looking to buy Indian ethnic wear, jewellery, decorations and traditional snacks visit the Deepavali festival bazaar (more details TBC) but this is usually held along Campbell Lane and Hastings Road.

When: now until 13 November 2023, 7pm – midnight daily
Where: Serangoon Road and Race Course Road
How much: Free!

If you are in Little India looking at the lights and hoping to get some shopping done too, do note that Tekka Market will be closed for repair and renovation works and will be reopening in two stages: the second level, which comprises retail shops, will reopen on 31 August 2023 (well in time for Deepavali and Indian clothes shopping) while the first level, which houses food stalls and a wet market, will reopen later on 30 September 2023.

2. Deepavali Festival Village

The highly anticipated Deepavali event Festival Village is back this year with a beautiful kaleidoscope of scrumptious snacks, intricate crafts, traditional clothing and decorations to celebrate this joyous occasion. Enjoy a captivating line-up of cultural performances that display the beauty of the Indian heritage. Gather your friends and family for an evening of exciting Deepavali festivities!

When: 30 September – 9 November 2023, 10am – 10pm; 10 – 11 November 2023, 10am – 1am
Where: Campbell Lane, Singapore 209922
How much: Free!

3. Deepavali Food Bazaar

One of the most exciting parts of Deepavali is the food! Spend the evening at the annual indulgent Deepavali Food Bazaar, where you’ll get to savour a symphony of flavours from the Indian culture and join in the cultural celebrations. From traditional Indian snacks like Murukku, Ribbon Pakoda and Kara Boondi to a hearty briyani meal, there’s plenty to satisfy your Indian food cravings as you immerse in the Deepavali celebrations.

When: 25 September – 11 November 2023, 2pm – 10pm
Where: Poli@Clive Street

4. Deepavali Big Bus Tour

Looking for a relaxing way to soak in the Deepavali street lights this year? Book your seats on a spectacular Big Bus Tour that will take you through the lively streets of Little India. Marvel at the beautifully adorned streetlights to celebrate this joyous occasion! Plus, get a $5 voucher from the restaurant for a satisfying meal.

When: 20 & 27 October 2023, 3 & 10 November 2023, 7pm – 8pm and 8pm – 9pm
Where: Pick-up point at Orchard Hotel; Drop-off point at Race Course Road (outside Gayathri Restaurant)
How much: $8 per person. Click here to book your seat.

5. Indian Fashion Show

Celebrate the stunning artistry of Indian fashion at this runway show, where models will share North and South Indian designs that seamlessly mix contemporary fashion trends with traditional attire. Gain a newfound respect and appreciation for the Indian culture, beautiful fashion, creativity and heritage.

When: 21 October 2023, 6:30pm – 8pm
Where: Outside IHC
How much: Free!

6. Cultural Street Show

Be captivated by traditional song and dance performances that celebrate the Indian culture and heritage. Don’t miss these show-stopping performances that will bring Little India to life for this Deepavali season.

When: 27 October 2023, 6:30pm – 8pm
Where: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924 (Outside Indian Heritage Centre)
How much: Free!

7. LiSHA’s Live Cooking Demo

Do you enjoy cooking? If so, you won’t want to miss this live cooking demo, where you’ll get to learn from celebrity chef Chef Arifin and discover the meticulous preparation of popular Indian dishes. Dive into the intricacies of cooking Indian food from ingredient selection, food preparation techniques and the art of balancing flavours to create a mouthwatering Indian dish.

When: 4 November 2023, 4pm – 5pm
Where: BACOS The Dine, 2 Serangoon Rd, #01-12/13 Tekka Place, Singapore 218227
How much: Free!

8. KriyaiD Deepavali Fair

Support local Indian businesses and shops to raise funds for volunteer trips and philanthropic activities in Nepal, Cambodia, India and Sri Lanka. From apparel to accessories, cookies, cakes and more, enjoy an exciting shopping spree at 48 local brands at the KriyaiD Deepavali Fair.

When: 8 October 2023, 10am – 8pm
Where: SINDA MPH @ Carpark, 1 Beatty Road, Singapore 209943
How much: Free entry!

We are still updating this roundup of Deepavali events – do check back later.