If you’re planning a visit to Singapore this November, you’re in for an explosion of colour, flavour, and tradition. Deepavali, also known as Diwali or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Hindu calendar, and it’s celebrated with unparalleled vibrancy right here in the Lion City.
Deepavali falls on the 15th day of Kartika, the holiest month in the Hindu calendar. This year, the main festivities take place on November 12th, with a public holiday following on November 13th. The heart of the celebration is Little India, a bustling district that comes alive with a riot of colours, scents, and sounds.
How to celebrate Deepavali in Singapore
1. Catch the vibrant lighting displays in the streets of Little India at night
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As dusk settles, Little India transforms into a mesmerising canvas of light. From now till November 13th, the streets are adorned with dazzling displays of peacocks, lotus flowers, and oil lamps illuminating Serangoon Road and Race Course Road from 7pm to midnight. The spectacle is nothing short of breathtaking and makes for a perfect evening stroll through this vibrant neighbourhood.
2. Feast your way through Deepavali Food Bazaar
No celebration is complete without a feast, and Deepavali is no exception. The Deepavali Food Bazaar at Poli@Clive Street, running until November 13th, offers a mouth-watering array of authentic Indian snacks and dishes. From aromatic biryani to crunchy murukku, it’s a gastronomic adventure you won’t want to miss!
3. Go Shopping at Deepavali Festival Village
The Deepavali Festival Village, open until November 11th, is a shopper’s paradise. Here, you’ll find traditional Indian clothes, snacks, handicrafts, and decor, all set against a backdrop of music and dance displays that pay homage to Indian heritage.
4. Bask in the festivities at Indian Heritage Centre
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The Indian Heritage Centre hosts a range of activities from cooking demonstrations to cultural performances, running until November 12th.
5. Visit a Hindu Temple
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Enrich your Deepavali experience by visiting some of Singapore’s beautiful Hindu temples. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple on Serangoon Road, one of the oldest religious sites in Singapore, is a must-visit, as is the Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown and the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple in Katong.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, immerse yourself in the spirit of Deepavali in Singapore. It’s a celebration of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance – a truly universal message wrapped in a vibrant festival.
