Celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights, in and around London
It’s starting to feel a lot like Diwali in London. Also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, Diwali spans five days and usually falls in late October or early November. Diwali celebrations in 2025 begin on Monday, 20 October.
There will be a variety of events celebrating Diwali, so have a look below - there’s something for everyone to get involved in.
Celebrate Diwali with the Hindu Society
UCL Hindu Society have organised a range of events to mark Diwali. Join them on Monday 20 October for a trip to ISKCON Radha-Krishna Temple in Soho and witness the beautiful ceremony of lights, or come along to the Japanese Gardens on campus for a Diya Lighting Ceremony on Thursday 23 October. If you can't make either of these, join the society on Tuesday 21 for a Diwali games night.
Follow the Hindu Society on instagram to stay up to date with all of their events, and make sure to check out the What's On calendar.
All day events
1. Celebrate at a huge Diwali festival at the Neasden Temple
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, London hosts a large Diwali and Hindu New Year celebration. Open to one and all, the celebrations are an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy the traditions, colours and rich culture of the Hindu faith.
Date: Monday 20 October
Time: 10:00-19:00
Location: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Pramukh Swami Road, Neasden, London NW10 8HW
Cost: Free
2. Dance the night away at Marble Hill
This is an interactive and hands-on celebration – enjoy a parade, Bhangra dance workshops and a Kathak dance performance.
Date: Saturday 18 October
Time: 14:00-20:00
Location: Marble Hill, Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 2NL
Cost: Free
3. Diwali on the Peninsula
Come along to a Diwali celebration at Greenwich Peninsula for an afternoon of colour, rhythm, and community. There'll be a procession led by Dhol drummers, dancers, and an illuminated rickshaw, as well as a Mass Garba Dance Finale.
Date: 18 October
Time: 14:00-19:00
Location: Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0BN
Cost: Free
4. Finish it off with fireworks
Head to Byron Park Harrow for fireworks and go down even earlier for a full-day programme of street food and crafts. Book your tickets here for a spectacular show.
Date: Tuesday 2 September
Time: 12:00 - 23:00 (Fireworks start approx. 19:45)
Location: Byron Park Harrow, Peel Rd, HA3 7QX
Cost: 12:00-15:00 - free entry. 15:00 onwards – Students get in for £8
