Deepavali is one of the most important festivals in Singapore’s multicultural calendar. It began with ancient stories and traditions, and today Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains each celebrate it in their own way. At its core, Deepavali is about the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
For travelers, the festival gives the vibe of learning about culture while enjoying a lovely celebration. It is more than looking at lights or enjoying sweets. It is about stepping into traditions that have lasted for centuries. You can smell incense in the air, see marigolds brightening the streets, and join crowds as lanterns glow under the warm tropical night.
In Singapore, Deepavali is an open invitation for everyone to experience its story.
What is Deepavali and Why It Matters in Singapore
Deepavali, also called Diwali or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu festivals. The word “Deepavali” in Sanskrit means “a row of lights.” The festival is linked to many stories, like Lord Rama’s return after defeating Ravana, the blessings of goddess Lakshmi, or the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. For Hindus, Deepavali is a season of renewal, and they clean the home, light diyas (oil lamps), share meals, decorate with flowers, and pray.
Photo Credit: www.flickr.com
In Singapore, where many cultures live side by side, Deepavali has a special meaning. The Indian community, like Tamils, other South Indians, North Indians, and more, has deep roots here. Because of this, Deepavali is not only a community festival but also a national one. It is also a public holiday in Singapore, signaling that the whole country respects its importance.
Because of its importance, Deepavali is both a private and a public celebration. Streets, temples, shops, and community spaces all take part. For travelers, it is a chance to take part and watch how tradition mixes with city life.
When & Where to Experience Deepavali in Singapore
Singapore makes the story of Deepavali come alive. Every lamp, every song, and every offering creates memories that last long after the festival ends.
- 18 to 23 October, 2025
- Little India, Singapore
If you really want to feel the Deepavali tinge in Singapore, head straight to Little India. From 18 to 23 October 2025, the neighbourhood becomes the centre of the festival. Streets like Serangoon Road, Race Course Road, Campbell Lane, and Hastings Road are filled with arches, lanterns, and rangoli designs.
Temples such as Sri Veeramakaliamman and Sri Srinivasa Perumal welcome visitors with prayers, chants, and songs. As you walk through, you’ll notice the smell of incense and sweets, the sound of bells and music, and the energy that carries on late into the night.
Video Courtesy @Djemo Graphic
A key attraction during Deepavali is the evening light-up. Each year at this time, thousands of lights are switched on around 7 pm, shaped into peacocks, flowers, and oil lamps. On weekends, they often shine until after midnight, drawing large crowds. The arches and lanterns are festive symbols. But they also express Indian culture and skill, which gives the streets both charm and vibrancy.
The bazaars complete the experience of Deepavali. Along Campbell Lane, Hastings Road, and the Festival Village, rows of stalls sell sarees, jewellery, clay lamps, rangoli powders, and home decorations. Food stalls are just as tempting. Those are offering Indian sweets like ladoo and barfi, as well as savoury snacks such as murukku, samosas, and chaat.
Cultural Traditions and Rituals in Deepavali
Deepavali goes beyond the lights and festive bazaars. It is rooted in traditions that hold deep meaning. It connects families and communities while preserving faith and culture altogether.
Religious Observances
Deepavali begins at dawn when families bathe and dress in bright clothes. They then go to temples to welcome the day with prayers and light. In both homes and temples, lamps (diyas) are lit to welcome light and keep away darkness. Pujas (prayers), offerings, and bhajans (devotional songs) create an atmosphere that is both solemn and joyful.
Photo Credit: www.tripoto.com/trip/thimithi-in-singapore-a-firewalking-ceremony-56840772ed724
A unique ritual in Singapore is Thimithi (fire-walking), usually held a week before Deepavali, where devotees walk from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Sri Mariamman Temple for the ceremony. Homes are also cleaned and decorated with kolam or rangoli at the doorsteps, and lamps glow from the windows.
Food and Festive Treats
If rituals are the soul of Deepavali, food is the heart, and this is where you feel it most. You’ll find murukku, laddoo, barfi, and halwa bringing crunch, sweetness, and richness to the table. Savoury favourites like biryani, dosas, samosas, and curries add layers of spice and flavour.
Food is also for sharing. A neighbour may offer you sweets, or a stall might tempt you with something new. As you eat under glowing arches, sample fresh treats, and enjoy the mix of flavours, it feels like the spirit of Deepavali is right there in every bite.
Art, Dance, and Music
Deepavali is also a season of art and performance. You might watch traditional dances like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Mohiniattam, or Odissi performed in temples or community centres. You can listen to Carnatic concerts, devotional songs, or even enjoy modern shows with Bollywood music and fusion styles.
Out on the streets, you’ll find dance troupes, flash mobs, and colourful performances that add to the energy.
Fashion is also part of the celebration. You’ll see sarees, kurtas, embroidery, and new designs on display in festive parades. And it’s not only about watching, you can also join in. You might try henna, paint your own diya, learn how to drape a saree, or create a kolam pattern.
Deepavali Events and Activities for Tourists
When you visit Singapore during Deepavali season, there are many more structured things you can take part in beyond walking the streets or visiting temples.
1. Indian Heritage Centre Open House: Held in Little India, it usually involves free craft activities, cultural performances, and food tasting. It’s a wonderful way to explore the history, interaction, and inclusion involved.
2. Deepavali Festival Village & Bazaars: In the evenings, Little India comes alive with big markets, food stalls, fashion, and décor. Music and dancing add to the festive energy all around.
3. Deepavali Big Bus Tour: A guided bus ride around Little India after dark to soak in the lights and decorations. Ideal if you prefer to be seated and take it all in without walking.
4. Workshops: You can try rangoli or kolam making, flower-tying, diya decoration, saree or dhoti draping, and henna painting. These help you engage with tradition.
5. Cultural Shows, Concerts, and Fashion Events: You can watch dances, music, and fashion parades at community centres, the Indian Heritage Centre, and even malls. Sometimes, big performances are also held at the Esplanade during Kalaa Utsavam, the Indian Festival of Arts.
Travel Tips for Deepavali Visitors
If you’re in Singapore for Deepavali, make the most of it. Follow these tips to dive into the celebrations and enjoy the Deepavali beyond just photos.
- Best time to visit: Festivities start 1 to 2 weeks before Deepavali, with light-ups, bazaars, and events in full swing. Arrive early and stay through the big day.
- Time of day: Evenings are magical with lights and markets, but temples hold rituals in the morning. So, try to balance both.
- What to wear: Singapore is hot and humid in that season, so wear light clothes. For temples, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Traditional wear like sarees or kurtas is also welcome.
- Transport: Take the MRT to Little India or use buses and ride shares. Expect crowds, use an EZ-Link card, and try to avoid driving as parking is limited.
- Budget tips: Many events are free over there, and street food is affordable. Compare stall prices for souvenirs, and try non-touristy stalls for cheaper, authentic meals.
- Safety and comfort: Evenings are crowded, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. Also, stay hydrated, and keep your valuables safe. When visiting temples, please be respectful, take off your shoes, dress modestly, and keep your voice down.
Conclusion
Deepavali in Singapore is not just a festival you see, it’s an aura you will feel. The glow of lamps in the night, the taste of sweet and spicy food, the colours of art and dance, and the warmth of the community all invite you in. As a traveler, you can get to be part of it by walking under arches of light, tasting fresh snacks, joining rituals, and watching traditions come alive in a modern city.
To feel that comfort, you first need to apply for a Singapore eVisa. It’s quick and easy. So that you can come for the Deepavali, and leave with memories that glow long after the lamps go out.
