Deepavali Guides

What is Deepavali in Singapore?

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is the Hindu Festival of Lights. Deepavali in Singapore is a public holiday, and its date follows the Hindu calendar. It usually falls in October or November. The festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

For Hindu families, the day starts with prayers and temple visits. People wear new clothes, light oil lamps at home and visit relatives. Homes are often decorated with kolam, patterns drawn on the floor with coloured rice powder. Many families also invite friends of all backgrounds to share festive food.

The Little India light-up and bazaars

The main public celebration is in Little India. Arches of lights stretch along Serangoon Road for several weeks before the festival. The lights come on each evening, so come after dark for the best view.

Festive bazaar stalls pop up in the side streets. They sell flower garlands, brass oil lamps, clothes, decorations and snacks. You can also get henna, a plant dye used to draw patterns on the hands. Our Little India Arcade Guide covers shops, snacks and henna in more detail.

For a wider shopping trip, Mustafa Centre is a large department store in the area. It sells everything from spices to electronics. The Indian Heritage Centre explains the history of Singapore's Indian communities.

Visiting temples during Deepavali

Hindu temples are busy and joyful during the festival. Visitors are usually welcome, but remember that these are working places of worship.

• Remove your shoes before you enter.
• Cover your shoulders and knees.
• Ask before you take photos of people or prayers.
• If you only want to look around, choose a quieter day than Deepavali itself.

In Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple on Serangoon Road is one of the best-known temples. In Chinatown, Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore's oldest Hindu temple. Our Little India Temple Etiquette guide has more simple rules.

Deepavali sweets and festive food

Sweets are a big part of Deepavali. Families make or buy boxes of them to share with guests. Look out for these at stalls and sweet shops:

• Murukku: crunchy savoury spirals made from rice and lentil flour.
• Ladoo: round sweets made from flour, sugar and ghee, a type of clarified butter.
• Jalebi: bright orange spirals of fried batter soaked in sugar syrup.
• Burfi: a soft, milk-based sweet, often flavoured with nuts or cardamom.

For a full meal, Little India has many South Indian restaurants. Try Komala Vilas or Banana Leaf Apolo, or head to Tekka Centre for hawker stalls. Muthu's Curry on Race Course Road is known for fish head curry. Our list of dishes to try in Little India helps you order.

Tips for visiting Little India at Deepavali

• Take the MRT. Little India and Farrer Park stations are both close to the light-up. Roads in the area are slow on festival evenings.
• Go on a weekday. Weekend evenings in the final week before Deepavali are very crowded.
• Carry small notes. Some bazaar stalls prefer cash, though QR code payments are common.
• Stay nearby. Hotels in Little India & Jalan Besar let you walk to the lights after dinner.
• Greet people. A simple Happy Deepavali is always welcome.

FAQs about Deepavali in Singapore

When is Deepavali in Singapore?

Deepavali follows the Hindu calendar, so the date changes each year. It usually falls in October or November. Check the official public holiday list for the exact date.

Is Deepavali a public holiday in Singapore?

Yes. Deepavali is one of Singapore's public holidays. Most malls, restaurants and attractions stay open.

Can non-Hindus celebrate Deepavali?

Yes. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the light-up, shop at the bazaars and try the food. When you visit a temple, dress modestly and follow local customs.

How long does the Little India light-up last?

The street lights usually go up several weeks before Deepavali and stay on for a short time after. The dates are announced each year.