Welcoming Deepavali 2025 with just a glimpse of eyes. Also popularly called Diwali, it is a major Hindu holiday in Singapore. Renowned as a festival of lights, in Hindu tradition, Deepavali is celebrated to commemorate the triumph over Ravana and the homecoming of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana to Ayodhya. Diyas, or earthen lamps, are lit on this joyous occasion to bring light and chase away the darkness.

Deepavali is a public holiday in Singapore, that reflects the festival's cultural significance and importance to the Hindu population. The celebration is widely anticipated and is marked by vibrant décor, fireworks, traditional Indian food, and lively entertainment.

If you’re wondering when Deepavali 2025 will be celebrated in Singapore, it will happen on Thursday, October 31st, 2025. Hindus will celebrate the event with prayers, customs, and festivals.

The most popular legend surrounding Deepavali is that of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana returning to Ayodhya following their victory over Lanka's demon king, Ravana.

One of the great Hindu stories, the Ramayana, describes the exile of Lord Rama, his conflict with Ravana, and his final triumph. The celebration honours his arrival back in Ayodhya, which was greeted with thousands of clay lights.

Deepavali symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Ravana's defeat by Lord Rama symbolises the eternal battle between these two forces. Deepavali is also symbolised by these:

Deepavali is celebrated with great delight and passion in Singapore. Hindus use this moment as an opportunity to spend time with their loved ones, culture, and traditions.

1. Preparations for Deepavali

Hindus in Singapore prepare for Deepavali by cleaning their homes, buying new outfits to wear on the day of the festival, and making traditional Indian sweets. These preparations are believed to bring positivity and prosperity.

2. Rituals

Hindus in Singapore celebrate Deepavali with religious rituals. They visit temples and lighting of diyas as a central ritual of Deepavali. These rituals are believed to bring blessings and protection.

3. Family and Social Gatherings

During Deepavali, family and friends get together to celebrate with joyful dinners that include Indian delicacies like biryani, curries, and naan. They also exchange gifts and have family bonding.

Deepavali celebrations are centred in Little India, with festive decorations, vibrant lights, and traditional Indian themes adorning the streets, Little India is turned into a breathtaking display, so the weeks before Deepavali are the busiest in Little India. During Deepavali, Little India is also home to lively street bazaars that sell a variety of items, such as apparel, jewellery, handicrafts, and mouthwatering Indian cuisine. One of the highlights of Deepavali is when you see the breathtaking displays of lights and decorations.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple are two prominent Hindu temples in Singapore that hold significant importance during Deepavali. Devotees from all over the island and beyond visit these temples to offer prayers. During Deepavali, these temples become centres of devotion and celebration, reflecting the deep faith and traditions of Hinduism.

Deepavali is celebrated with a variety of community events around Singapore, so it is not only in Little India. These occasions frequently feature food vendors, family-friendly activities, and cultural performances. It provides opportunities for people of all backgrounds to experience the joy and spirit of the festival.

1. The Deepavali Light-Up

The Deepavali Light-Up is one of the most incredible sights in Singapore during Deepavali. Little India is turned into a brilliant wonderland, with lanterns, bright lights, and festive decorations along the streets. The illumination produces a mystical ambiance and draws tourists from throughout the city.

2. Street Bazaars

Little India's street bazaars are a must-visit during Deepavali, this is what people call the season of shopping. Traditional Indian apparel, jewellery, handicrafts, and delectable food are among the many items available in these vibrant markets.

3. Cultural Performances

Various cultural events, such as traditional Indian dance, music, and theatre, are held to mark Deepavali. These shows highlight India's rich cultural legacy and offer an insight into the Deepavali customs and traditions.

4. Kolam Art

An ancient Indian art form called kolam art uses colourful rice or sand to create beautiful designs on the floor. Hindu families in Singapore frequently make kolam art at their doorsteps to welcome the goddess Lakshmi during Deepavali. Kolam art is thought to bring wealth and good fortune.

Singapore is organising a number of significant public celebrations of the Festival of Lights during Deepavali in 2025. Here are the details:

1. Little India Festival

Little India will be the centre of the Deepavali festivities. You may be expecting the eye-catching annual Deepavali Light-Up, complete with sparkling decorations, street lights, and cultural events. There will be an abundance of festive merchandise at the Deepavali street bazaars, ranging from traditional Indian clothing to sweet treats and decorations.

2. Indian Heritage Centre

The yearly Deepavali Open House will take place at the Indian Heritage Centre. To let attendees completely experience the lively environment, it will include cultural performances, workshops for making rangoli, and an open-top bus tour of Little India.

3. Food Festival

Special Diwali menus will be available at numerous restaurants. Famous locations include Shikar will offers a gourmet Diwali experience, and Shangri-La Singapore which has an opulent Indian feast for you to savour.

Deepavali is a time for feasting and celebration, and the food plays a central role. A variety of traditional Indian dishes and sweets are prepared and enjoyed during the festival.

Popular savoury foods during Deepavali include mathri (a flaky, salty cookie), and murukku (a crunchy spiced snack made from rice and lentil flour), these are frequently made in advance and then consumed during the holiday season. While some iconic Deepavali sweets are:

During Deepavali, biryani is usually served as a main dish. This fragrant and spiced rice usually comes out with meat or vegetables. Biryani is often the centrepiece of festive meals. There are also Samosas, triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat, as a holiday favourite. You can also enjoy Curries that are usually served with lamb, chicken, or vegetarian. Curries are commonly served with rice or naan, enhancing the joyful meal.

The sharing of sweets and delicacies with loved ones is a fundamental Deepavali tradition. Sweets are prepared or bought in bulk by families, who present them in attractive packaging for their friends, neighbours, and coworkers to enjoy. During the celebration, this tradition represents bringing happiness and strengthening relationships.

In order to create a cosy and welcoming ambiance, oil lamps (diyas) are used to decorate homes during Deepavali. Drawn at gates to represent prosperity and greet guests, rangoli (kolam) is formed from coloured rice, powder, or flower petals. The flower arrangements also contribute to the joyful atmosphere and infuse the house with a natural scent.

Traditionally, women wear sarees on Deepavali. These are beautiful, colourful dresses made of expensive materials like silk. It is also typically accessorised with traditional jewellery. While men are traditionally wearing long, tunic-like garments called kurtas teamed with pyjama trousers or dhotis.

Nevertheless, traditional Deepavali clothing has evolved recently, including elements of the current style. Dressing in long skirts and blouses called lehenga-cholis or flowing gowns (anarkalis) are popular choices for women, while men may choose to wear ceremonial coats called sherwanis in place of kurtas.

One of the most significant aspects of Deepavali is Lakshmi Puja, where devotees worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. The ritual typically involves devotees performing various rituals, including the offering of flowers, sweets, and other offerings to Lakshmi. The puja often involves reciting prayers, hymns, and mantras dedicated to the goddess.

Temples are sacred places where people can feel a sense of community and establish a connection with the divine. It is believed that going to a temple can help one gain spiritual merit and fortify their faith.

During Deepavali, fasting is meant to purify the body and mind, improve spiritual focus, and express devotion. It's also viewed as a way to self-discipline and introspection over one's deeds and goals. Additionally, Deepavali is a time for reflection and personal development.

Deepavali plays a vital role in Singapore's multicultural society. It is more than just a significant Hindu festival; it is a vibrant celebration that reflects the country's multicultural and inclusive ethos. Deepavali fosters a sense of shared community by advancing harmony and understanding across various religious and ethnic groupings.

Deepavali is a symbol of the nation's dedication to diversity and inclusiveness as much as a religious holiday. Singapore is a peaceful, dynamic nation where all individuals are treated with respect and feel that their differences are celebrated.

In Singapore, Deepavali occurs as a public holiday, allowing people to celebrate and spend time with their families. The festival's significance in the country's cultural calendar is further highlighted by its formal accreditation. Likewise, Christmas is also recognized as a public holiday, bringing together people of all backgrounds for festive celebrations and family gatherings.

Planning for Deepavali 2025 can ensure a smooth and enjoyable celebration. Whether you’re preparing for the festivities yourself or planning a visit to Singapore, here are some tips for you:

Make reservations in advance because Deepavali is a popular time to visit. Remain close to important landmarks like Little India or Orchard Road. Select from a range of lodging options, including upscale hotels and low-cost hostels, some of which may have special festival packages.

Retail activity spikes around Deepavali as stores offer exclusive deals and promotions to draw customers. Numerous retailers roll out Deepavali-themed promos, such as limited-edition goods, bundled offers, and exclusive discounts. The goal of these sales is to draw in shoppers shopping for holiday merchandise and gifts.

There is a noticeable surge in foot traffic in popular shopping districts like Little India and Orchard Road. Little India is renowned as a shopping destination for Deepavali, with many stores selling jewellery, traditional clothing, and festive décor.

There are also huge retail centres with Deepavali-themed exhibits and sales include ION Orchard and Paragon. Please keep in mind that commercial interests must be balanced with consideration for Deepavali's religious and cultural significance. Companies should make sure that their marketing and promotional efforts respect Deepavali customs and do not downplay the importance of the celebration.

Let’s take into consideration implementing sustainable measures to make Deepavali celebrations more eco-friendly. You can make use of reusable decorations like cloth garlands and banners, and choose organic materials like bamboo and fresh flowers. Instead of using artificial colours for your rangoli patterns, use natural powders and petals from flowers as biodegradable alternatives. Minimise waste by choosing items with recyclable or minimal packaging and controlling portion sizes to prevent food waste.

If you’re planning a trip for the Deepavali 2025 festival, we suggest you stay near Little India. Because it is a hub of Deepavali celebration. Here are the details:

1. The Great Madras by Hotel Calmo

The Little India neighbourhood is a bustling place well-known for its Deepavali events. You may enjoy stay in The Great Madras. If you choose to stay in Little India, you may fully experience Deepavali's rich cultural diversity. It's easy to visit the markets, temples, and eateries in the area that provide real festive experiences.

2. One Farrer Hotel

One Farrer Hotel is close to Little India, where a large portion of the Deepavali celebrations take place, and is situated near Farrer Park. This makes important festivals and cultural events, like the Deepavali Light-Up, easily accessible.

For alternative stays, you can choose budget-hotels, such as:

1. Hotel 81 Dickson

Hotel 81 Dickson is a low-cost hotel that offers reasonable prices without sacrificing comfort or hygiene. If you want to take advantage of the event without going over budget for lodging, this is a sensible option.

2. Haising Hotel

Stay at Haising Hotel, you'll be in the centre of the Deepavali celebrations, with its bright street light displays, lively marketplaces, and cultural events, as it's adjacent to the energetic Little India neighbourhood. Walking around the celebrations is a convenient option.

Deepavali is a busy time for travel, so, book your accommodations as soon as possible, especially near areas like Little India in Singapore. As many hotels offer early-bird promotions or festive packages during Deepavali, keep an eye on discounts or bundle deals that include perks like dining or free transportation.

There is no doubt that for the Hindu community, Deepavali is highly sacred. It stands for the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, light over darkness, and good over evil. It is encouraged for people of all backgrounds to enjoy and take part in the celebrations.Book your room through Traveloka. You can find various offers, and prices, and choose the best room that suits your needs. Search for your preferred dates, and choose the nearby hotels, flights, and other tourist attractions. Go and grab your costume, hit up a festival, and savour the delicious food!