Diwali in Singapore has already kicked off! The celebrations began last September 30, but the holiday officially starts on November 12 and lasts five days. Want to join the fun festivities before it ends? We've got you covered with this guide on the famous Hindu festival.
What is Diwali?
India’s Festival of Lights is also celebrated in Singapore. Credits: Yan Krukau studio via Pexels
Diwali, or Deepavali, is a winter festival originating in India that celebrates good triumphing over evil. It’s about celebrating knowledge and hope, and spreading joy and humanity to the people around you. During this holiday, Hindu families transform their homes into beacons of light with bright and vibrant decorations. Diwali is also a time for exchanging gifts, feasting, and performing pooja (prayers) to deities.
Diwali in Singapore
Admire the neon glow of Diwali lights. Credits: singaporestockphoto via Unsplash
Diwali in Singapore is celebrated with as much enthusiasm as in India. The festivities take place in Little India, where people can visit bazaars, watch exhibitions, and admire the Rangoli art in front of people's homes. But nothing can top seeing the Diwali Lights in Singapore along Serangoon Road. These head-turning decors will add a vibrant ambiance to your Instagram photos.
Must-see places
There are lots to see during Diwali in Singapore, but here are some you should check out:
Sri Veerama-kaliamman Temple
Visit one of the oldest temples in Singapore! Credits: Sergey via Flickr
Sri Veerama-kaliamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples at the heart of Little India and is a must-visit when celebrating Diwali in Singapore. Be mesmerized by the temple’s intricate designs and learn about the Hindu faith, while you’re at it.
Deepavali Festival Village and Food Bazaar
Lose yourself in the Deepavali festivities along Campbell Lane. Credits: Charles Postiaux via Unsplash
Smell the incense and floral garlands while you peruse the stalls in Deepavali Festival Village along Campbell Lane. Purchase traditional snacks, ornaments, and embroidered saris, or indulge in Indian cuisine at the food bazaar along Clive Street.
Shop til you drop at Mustafa Centre! Credits: Joshua Tsu via Unsplash
Satisfy your shopping urge at Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping mall where you can buy gold jewelry and other items at reasonable prices. As a symbol of prosperity, buying gold is common during Diwali as it welcomes good fortune.
Diwali Events and Activities
As one of the year's biggest holidays, Diwali in Singapore hosts several events that kids and adults can enjoy:
Rangoli/Kolam Workshop (October 7)
Learn the ancient art of Rangoli. Credits: Yan Krukau studio via Pexels
Unleash your inner artist and learn the Indian art form of Rangoli/Kolam from experts. This one-day workshop will be held in Tekka Place Rooftop along Serangoon Road from 11 AM to 12 PM.
Treasure hunt (October 14 & 28)
Leave no rock unturned as you search for treasure in Little India! Credits: happysurd via Unsplash
Participate in this exciting treasure hunt that lets you scour the streets of Little India for clues and solve puzzles with a buddy. Held in Campbell Lane from 10 AM to 12 PM, this fun activity lets you explore the area and learn about Indian culture.
Big Bus Tour (October 20 & 27; November 3 & 10)
Hop on and explore Little India. Credits: Simon Sees via Flickr
Embark on this dazzling bus tour and roam Little India while admiring its key highlights, including the Diwali lights adorning the streets for this momentous holiday! This one-hour tour has two sessions at 7 PM and 8 PM. Its pickup point is at the Orchard Hotel, and its dropoff is at Gayathri Restaurant along Race Course Road.
Flower Tying and Decorating Workshop (October 21)
Craft a garland! Credits: singaporestockphoto via Unsplash
Dive into floral art and learn more about Indian culture and the Hindu faith while creating your own garland. This therapeutic exercise will surely add color to your morning. This workshop will take place in Tekka Place Rooftop from 11 AM to 12 PM.
Fashion Show (October 21)
Feast your eyes on the best of Indian fashion. Credits: Vaibhav Nagare via Unsplash
Witness the beauty of Indian fashion strutting down the runway with grace. Treat your eyes to various fabric combinations and designs that will inspire your next Diwali outfit. The show kicks off outside the IHC building at 6:30 PM.
Deepavali Street Show (October 27)
Feel the beat with memorable performances! Credits: sooraj_perambra via Unsplash
Hit the streets and enjoy the Deepavali Street Show's fantastic song and dance performances! Move your body to the beat as these performers get you in the festive mood. The dance floor opens at 6:30 PM right outside the IHC building along Campbell Lane.
Live Cooking Demo (November 4)
Discover amazing recipes from a top chef! Credits: Chan Walrus via Pexels
Spice up your Diwali celebration in Singapore by learning to cook the best cultural dishes from celebrity chef Chef Arifin. Gain insights on cooking techniques and ingredient selection in this culinary journey to make amazing Indian dishes at home! The demo will be in BACOS The Dine from 4 PM to 5 PM.
Theemithi Firewalking (November 5 & 6)
Feel the heat at this unique ritual. Credits: elimendeinagella via Unsplash
Witness this hot ritual featuring thousands of men walking burning coals. This day-long activity will get you curious about the Hindu belief and the devotion of its devotees. This event will be held in Sri Mariamman Temple at 11 AM on November 5 and 12 PM on November 6.
Deepavali Countdown Concert (On the Eve of Diwali)
Welcome Diwali with a bang! Credits: Debashis RC Biswas via Unsplash
Usher in Diwali with an open-air concert featuring international artists and celebrities! The Countdown Concert has been a staple of Deepavali in Singapore, so you can expect this year's show to rock your socks off!
See the Lights!
Light up your Diwali in Singapore! Credits: Jegathisan Manoharan via Pexels
Get ready for a fun-filled Diwali in Singapore this season! Looking to add more activities to your trip? Check out our four-day and three-day itineraries to help you plan your ideal Singaporean vacation. With the many attractions to experience in the city, it would be difficult for anyone not to be in a festive mood.
