Deepavali 2024 In Singapore: BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide

It’s October already. This means that charming Deepavali is coming. The streets of Little India light up with thousands of lights, traditional Indian music and clothes are literally at every step in Singapore, and there’s some unique spirit in the air. So what is Deepavali, one of Singapore’s most colourful celebrations? When is Deepavali? How is Deepavali celebrated in Singapore? We invite you to find answers to all these questions in the BusyKidd’s Ultimate Guide: Deepavali 2024 In Singapore.

Let’s begin our story with Deepavali’s background – its meaning, traditions, and celebrations.

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Teachers’ Day Gift Guide, Racial Harmony Day, Public Holidays and Long Weekends in Singapore.

What is Deepavali?

Deepavali (aka Divali or Diwali) is an ancient Hindu festival of lights celebrated annually in autumn. It celebrates the spiritual ‘victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.’ What does Deepavali actually mean? The word Deepavali literally translates as ‘a row of lights.’

By the way, you probably wonder if Diwali and Deepavali are the same. Let’s see if there’s any difference in Diwali vs Deepavali. Actually, both names have the same meaning. However, Diwali (or Divali) is more common in North India, while Deepavali is more prevalent in South India.

Is Deepavali a public holiday in Singapore? Yes, Deepavali was declared a public holiday in Singapore in 1929.

When is Diwali or Deepavali celebrated in Singapore? Deepavali lights festival in Singapore usually lasts five days and falls between the middle of October and the middle of November. Its dates depend on the Hindu lunar calendar. When is Deepavali 2024 in Singapore? Deepawali or Diwali 2024 date: October 29, 2024 – November 3, 2024. The main day of the Diwali festival in 2024 is October 31, 2024.

The date for the Singapore Lights Festival changes each year. For example, Deepavali 2025 will be celebrated from October 19, 2025, to October 23, 2025, with the main celebration on October 21, 2025.

What is Deepavali celebrated for? Deepavali praises the triumph of good over evil – of light over darkness. This festival unites people of various faiths and emphasizes the importance of harmony and light in everyone’s soul. Moreover, this holiday is an excellent way for all of us to learn more about India and its incredible culture, traditions, and tastes – and to feel its spirit.

This charming festival has many bright traditions that make it so special – and now is an ideal time to learn more about them.

Deepavali Traditions

As we’ve already mentioned, India’s Festival of Lights celebrations last five days. Day 1 –  Dhanteras – marks the beginning of all preparations for Deepavali’s traditions. Day 2, called Naraka Chaturdasi, is when people decorate their doors with rangoli, an incredibly beautiful art that is believed to bring good luck. Day 3 – Lakshmi Puja – is the main day of Deepavali, when most traditions and activities take place. People light up diya lamps, say the Lakshmi puja prayer, eat traditional food, and admire fireworks. Day 4, or Govardhan Puja, marks the turn of the New Year. People visit their nearest and dearest with gifts and sincere wishes for the next year. Finally, on Day 5 – Bhai Dooj – brothers visit the homes of their married sisters. If it’s impossible, sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, health, and prosperity.

Deepavali Decorations

Image Credit: Indian Heritage Centre via Instagram

Some of the most popular traditional Deepavali decorations are diyas (oil lamps from clay), torans (door decorations), rangoli (an ancient Hindu art form from India), garlands of flowers, etc.

Where to buy Deepavali decorations in Singapore? Finding Deepavali decorations in Singapore won’t be difficult. Almost every flower, gift, décor, and stationary store in Singapore has a wide choice of decorations to adorn your home for the festival. And if you are in Little India… Well, it’s almost impossible to leave its market, stores, and booths without buying something truly authentic to bring the spirit of Diwali home. Besides, you can order everything you need online – on Shopee, Etsy, Amazon, Carousell, etc.

However, the most exciting way to prepare for Deepavali is to craft everything with your own hands. By the way, during the festival, you can participate in various engaging, family-friendly workshops and create your own Deepavali decorations. Moreover, it is an excellent way to have fun, collect great memories with your family, and dive even deeper into the universe of Deepavali in SG.

Deepavali Costumes

What to wear for Deepavali? Well, if you want to get the most out of this Deepavali celebration, the best Deepavali clothes are sarees, traditional kurtis, festive ethnic sets, Anarkali suits, and lehengas for women and various kurta-pajama and dhoti-kurta options for men.

What are the ideal Deepavali colours for your festive outfit? Choose bright, vibrant colours. Yellow or gold are the most auspicious colours for this festival. They symbolize wealth, prosperity, and divine light dispelling darkness. Purple, green, red, and royal blue are also popular choices.

Where to buy Deepavali costume in Singapore? There are many stores in Singapore where you can choose your perfect Indian dress or costume for Divali. Fabindia, Sharva Collections, Kucch, Nimbu, and The Planter’s Bungalow are just several of them. Online stores also offer a wide and colourful choice of outfits for this celebration.

Deepavali Food

No doubt, traditional Deepavali food is among the main aspects of the holiday. Deepavali Mithai (Indian traditional sweets) is a must-try. However, Deepavali Mithai are not common cookies, desserts, or candies but ‘pure sweets’ that are offerings to the gods. There are numerous types of mithai, including Laddoo, Karanji, Halwa, Besan, and others.

Deepavali snacks are also traditional food that you should try to feel the taste of the celebration. Murukku, Paneer Tikka, Samosa, and Aloo Tikki are among the most popular options.

Where to buy Deepavali cookies, snacks, and other delicacies? Ajmir Store, Shahi Maharani North Indian Restaurant, All Things Delicious, Rang Mahal, BC Bites, and other inviting stores are your destination – both in-store and online.

Besides, many dining venues offer a special Divali Menu to celebrate the festival. Moreover, you can take part in cooking classes and live cooking sessions.

Deepavali Buffet @ The ART

Image Credit: The Art via Facebook

To enjoy the taste of India and make this Deepavali truly exceptional, spend an evening at The ART and treat yourself to authentic North, South, and Local Indian cuisine. Learn more about India’s culinary traditions and indulge in more than 18 mouthwatering dishes.

• When: October 18: 6 PM to 9 PM
• Where: The ART (Assumption Restaurant for Training), 30 Cashew Road, Singapore 679697
• Admission Price: $30 per person
• More Details

Diwali Sweets Menu @ Kailash Parbat Singapore

Image Credit: Kailash Parbat via Instagram

Kailash Parbat, an inviting Indian Vegetarian Restaurant in Singapore, calls all its friends to try its Happy Diwali Sweets Menu – 2024. Dry Fruit Sweets, Mawa Sweets, Special Dry Fruits, and House Special Sweets – the choice is wide and so authentic! You can create your ideal Diwali Sweets Box as a gift for your family, friends, colleagues, or for yourself.

You can order Deepavali sweets at any of Kailash Parbat’s branches or online.

• Where:
  • 3 Belilios Road #01-03, Hilton Garden Inn, Singapore 219924
  • 93 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207669
  • 1 Changi Business Park, Crescent, #01-10/12/13 Plaza 8, Singapore 486066
  • Sentosa, 42 Imbia Road #01-01, Singapore 099701
• More Details

Live Cooking Demo With Chef Arifin @ Tekka Place And Junior Kuppana Restaurant

Image Credit: LiSHA via Facebook

Join Celebrity Chef Arifin on his live cooking demonstration. Get some secret insights and inspiration. Watch culinary magic happening right in front of you.

• When: October 5 and 19: 4 PM to 5 PM
• Where:
  • October 5: Tekka Place, 2 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218227
  • October 19: Junior Kuppana Restaurant, 161 Kitchener Rd, Singapore 208531
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

LIVE Cooking: Deepavali Delights with Chef Devagi Sanmugam

To learn more about traditional Deepavali delights and treat your nearest and dearest to delicious healthy choices, join Chef Devagi Sanmugam on an exclusive cooking demonstration at Bedok Public Library. Learn how to cook One-Pot Chicken Biryani, Mango Chickpeas Salad, and Sugar-Free Dried Fruits and Nuts Laddu.

The event is free.

• When: October 23: 2 PM to 5 PM
• Where: Bedok Public Library (Programme Room Level 3), 11 Bedok North Street 1, Heartbeat@Bedok #03-04, Singapore 469662
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

WellSpend Sunday Luxe: Deepavali Specials

Image Credit: Eventbrite.com

Take a culinary journey through the incredible tastes of India. Savour Authentic Indian Flavours, Indian Cuisine Masterclass with Chef Satish Madaan, Art of Making Jalebi: Indian Dessert Masterclass, Festive Cocktail and Mocktail Workshop by Mr. Faizal, The Science Behind Our Food: Why Spices are Addictive – make your Deepavali even tastier with WellSpend Sunday Luxe.

• When: October 27
• Where: At-Sunrice Globalchef Academy, 28 Tai Seng Street Level 5, Singapore 534106
• Admission Price: Free and ticketed activities
• More Details

Besides, a whole range of food stalls serving authentic Indian cuisine await you at Deepavali Festival Village at Campbell Lane in Little India.

Deepavali Gifts Ideas

What to give for Deepavali in Singapore? We have selected some of the top Deepavali gift ideas for you:

• Deepavali sweets (Diwali Sweets Box)
• Diyas (oil lamps)
• Rangoli stencils
• Puja thalis (prayer plates)
• Diwali candles
• Diwali celebration outfit
• Dry fruits
• Deepavali decorations
• Diwali hamper
• Jewelry
• Perfumes
• And others

However, of course, the main gift is your love, attention, and sincere greetings and wishes. Some of the Happy Deepavali greetings and wishes ideas are:

• ‘Wishing you a Deepavali filled with love, laughter, and light. May this festival bring you and your family immense happiness.’
• ‘May the light of Diwali illuminate your home and heart with happiness and prosperity.’
• ‘May this Diwali fill your life with the colours of the rainbow.’
• ‘Shubh Diwali! May the festival of lights bring you good luck, love, and prosperity!’
• ‘May your heart glow as bright as the diya lights of this Diwali.’

Now you know what to give your nearest and dearest during Deepavali! So, are you ready to see what is there to do on the Deepavali 2024 day in Singapore?

Deepavali 2024: Festivities and Kid-Friendly Activities in Singapore

Deepavali Celebrations At Little India in Singapore

Most of the Deepavali-dedicated events take place in charming Little India – and this is not surprising. After all, this inviting neighborhood is a cradle of Indian heritage right in the middle of Singapore.

Dive into a one-of-a-kind Deepavali holiday atmosphere in Singapore’s Little India. Beautiful street light-ups, vibrant bazaars, outstanding performances, fascinating tours, delicious street food, and even more – let’s see what Little India has to offer us for this year’s festival of lights.

Big Bus Tour

Embark on a Festive Deepavali Adventure on the Big Bus Tour. Explore the colourful streets of Singapore decorated for Diwali. Plunge in the rich cultural heritage.

• When: October 4, 11, 18, and October 21-25:
  • 6:45 PM to 7:30 PM
  • 7:45 PM to 8:30 PM
• Where: Serangoon Road
• Admission Price: $10 per person
• More Details

Deepavali Open House 2024 @ Indian Heritage Centre

Image Credit: Indian Heritage Centre via Instagram

Every weekend this October, the Indian Heritage Centre turns into a welcoming, lively venue to celebrate Deepavali 2024. With incredible cultural performances, hands-on workshops, delicious Deepavali snacks, and many surprises, it is a must-visit event for your family to feel the spirit of Deepavali to the fullest.

• When: October 5 to 27: 10 AM to 5 PM
• Where: Indian Heritage Centre, 5 Campbell Ln, Singapore 209924
• Admission Price: Free and ticketed activities
• More Details

Deepavali Festival Village

Experience the true charm of India at Deepavali Festival Village. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and bright festivities. Enjoy shopping, try delicious Deepavali treats, watch brilliant performances, and more.

• When: September 14 to October 30: 10 AM to 10 PM
• Where: Campbell Lane
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Deepavali Special: Little India Walking Tour

Explore Little India. Admire its colours, smell its spices, taste its street food. Learn more about the incredible culture and traditions of India, listen to fascinating stories about the neighborhood, admire the beautiful street art – and spend meaningful three hours wandering through the streets of Little India.

• When: October 4, 11, 17, 18, 23, and 25
• Where: Little India MRT Station, Exit E, Street Level 60 Bukit Timah Road Singapore, Singapore 229902
• Admission Price: $45
• More Details

Grand Deepavali Mascot Appearance

Image Credit: Deepavali.sg

Meet the cute Deepavali Mascot at Serangoon Road. Take cool pictures, sing, dance, and celebrate this Deepavali together!

• When: October 5, 12, and 19: 4 PM to 5 PM
• Where: Serangoon Road
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Lisha Treasure Hunt @ Little India Precinct

Participate in the exciting Lisha Treasure Hunt. Take your family and solve puzzles and intriguing clues and uncover hidden treasures. Explore the vibrant streets of Little India and have fun.

• When: October 12: 10 AM to 12 PM
• Where: Little India Precinct
• Admission Price: $10 per pair
• More Details

Rangoli Workshop @ Tekka Place Rooftop Pavilion

It’s time to unleash your creativity and become even closer to India. Participate in the engaging Rangoli Workshop – learn to create beauty using rice flour, flowers, and vibrant powders.

• When: October 26:
  • Session 1: 2 PM
  • Session 2: 3 PM
• Where: Tekka Place Rooftop Pavilion, 2 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218227
• Admission Price: $10
• More Details

Flower Tying Workshop @ Tekka Place Rooftop Pavilion

Join an exciting workshop at Tekka Place Rooftop Pavilion. Learn more about the traditional art of flower tying. Create flower garlands – to decorate your home for Deepavali or as a gift for your loved ones.

• When: October 26:
  • Session 1: 10 AM
  • Session 2: 11 AM
• Where: Tekka Place Rooftop Pavilion, 2 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218227
• Admission Price: $10
• More Details

Other Family-Friendly Deepavali Dedicated Activities 2024

Deepavali Specials @ Kiztopia

For a day filled with colours, emotions, and fun, head to Kiztopia to enjoy Deepavali Specials for kids. Children will create their own Diya lamp and light up the celebration. Lots of games and smiles are also provided.

• When: October 31
• Where: Multiple locations
• Admission Price: Admission charge to Kiztopia applies
• More Details

Diwali Pop Up at Crane @ Joo Chiat

Crane at Joo Chiat calls all its friends to join its lively Diwali Pop Up with a festive showcase featuring incredible decor, beautiful gifts, and delicious treats. Enjoy shopping and a great atmosphere.

• When: October 19-20: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Where: Joo Chiat, 432 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427647
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Diwali Weekend at Crane @ OCBC Wisma Atria

Fairy lights, rangoli patterns, smiling people, and Diwali spirit in the air – that’s what you will find at the Diwali Weekend at Crane Living OCBC Wisma Atria. Get something special for your home, try delicious treats, and participate in various activities.

• When: October 11-13: 11 AM to 7 PM
• Where: Crane Living OCBC Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd, #04-01 Wisma Atria, Singapore 238877
• Admission Price: Free
• More Details

Kids Diwali Celebration By Pixie Phonics

Image Credit: Pixie Phonics via Instagram

It’s time for your little ones to dive into an incredible world of Diwali, as they are all invited to join the colourful Children’s Diwali Party. Let’s dress up and spend this day with music, dance, games, art, storytelling, and more!

• When: October 26: 10 AM to 12 PM
• Where: 37 Dyson Road, Singapore 309385
• Admission Price: $80
• More Details

The BusyKidd team is sending you sincere Deepavali greetings and best wishes! Let this celebration bring more warmth, dreams, and love! Happy Deepavali!

Featured Image Credit: Indian Heritage Centre via Instagram