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Summer is officially over, but thankfully Diwali, the festival of light, is fast approaching. Celebrated by Sikhs, Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, Diwali is the celebration of good over evil, and is honoured with fireworks, candles and delicious food.
This year, Diwali falls on Friday 1 November 2024. For anyone hoping to celebrate Diwali in London, here is a list of the best events on offer.
1. Diwali at Yaatra
Yaatra, the modern Indian restaurant located inside a Grade II-listed Edwardian Old Westminster Fire Station in the heart of Westminster, has a delicious-looking five-course Diwali set menu. From Venison boti kebab to tandoori paneer tikka, there are vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and a mouthwatering special cocktail to wash it down with.
Where: Yaatra, 4 Greycoat Pl, London SW1P 1SB
When: November 2024
Website: yaatrarestaurant.com
Price: £60
Book online
2. Diwali at Marble Hill in association with English Heritage
Diwali at Marble Hill is in association with English Heritage again this year. Visitors can take part in a Bhangra workshop or meet giant puppets at Marble Hill, Henrietta Howard’s Georgian villa nestled on the banks of the river Thames. The day finishes with a lantern parade to the Thames, and better yet, all workshops are free.
Where: Marble Hill, Twickenham
When: Saturday 26 October, 2pm-8pm
Website: english-heritage.org.uk
Price: Free
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3. Homemade Diwali diyas workshop and DJ after-hours at The Ministry
Diyas are a huge part of Diwali, with many people who celebrate the Festival of Light adorning their homes with these beautiful oil lamps. Join this arts and crafts event at The Ministry and learn how to craft and decorate your own. You’ll also be given access to its bar and garden, where you can enjoy Ministry of Sound's DJs.
Where: The Ministry, 79-81 Borough Rd, London SE1 1DN
When: Thursday 24 October, 6.30-8.30pm
Website: theministry.com
Price: £33.22
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4. Diwali in London
London’s free annual family Diwali event is kicking off on Sunday 27 October. This year, the theme is Giving from the Heart, with dancers, a street food marketplace, and live performances expected. Last year, activities included dance workshops, yoga and meditation, and sari and turban tying.
Where: Trafalgar Square
When: Sunday 27 October, 1-7pm
Website: london.gov.uk
Price: Free
5. Diwali Indian music, dinner and dance
If you fancy joining a Diwali event, then consider this one, with its performances, delicious food, and community spirit. Attendees will be treated to a classical Indian recital by Ranjana Ghatak (voice), Harkiret Singh Bahra (tabla), and Kirpal Singh Panesar (Tar-Shehnai & Dilruba), followed by dancing led by a Bhangra dance band.
Where: Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ
When: Saturday 26 October, 6pm
Website: blackheathhalls.com
Price: £60/£30 for under 18s
6. South Asian Astronomy: Diwali
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is putting on a special event suitable for ages seven and over to explore how the Hindu calendar draws on the skies to work out dates like Diwali each year. Find out how the sun and moon determine the religion’s calendar while honouring the power of astrology and Hinduism.
Where: Royal Observatory, Peter Harrison Planetarium, Blackheath Ave, London SE10 8XJ
When: Friday 1 November, 10.30-11.15am
Website: rmg.co.uk
Price: Adult £10, Children £5
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7. Devonshire Square Diwali show
Devonshire Square is going all out with its free Diwali event, which features a dance show performed by some of the finest Indian folk, classical, and contemporary dancers in the UK, presented by Akademi South Asian Dance UK. Award-winning artist Miguel Rajaguru is also crafting a beautiful Rangoli in honour of the festival of light, and guests will be treated to complimentary Indian sweets and canapes, along with a special “Odyssey Rose Nectar” drink, designed up by Cinnamon Kitchen mixologists, inspired by traditional Indian rose milk.
Where: Devonshire Square's Western Courtyard, EC2M 4YE
When: Wednesday 30 October, 5.30-7.30pm
Website: dsq.london
Price: Free
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