Diwali, the Festival of Lights, has become a global celebration of joy, hope, and new beginnings. As the Indian diaspora has grown, Diwali celebrations around the world now rival those in India, spreading the festival’s magic far and wide.
In this guide, we’ll explore eight remarkable destinations where Diwali’s warmth illuminates cities worldwide in 2024. From Singapore’s vibrant Little India to the lively streets of Leicester, UK, these global festivities blend traditional elements with local and unique experiences. Whether you’re a homesick expat or a curious traveler, Diwali’s warmth and excitement await.
1. Nepal
“Diwali in Kathmandu: Tihar Celebrations Honoring Every Life.”
Date: October 30 to November 3, 2024
In Nepal, Diwali is celebrated as Tihar. This five-day festival transforms Kathmandu into a vibrant landscape of color, oil lamps, and elaborate rangoli designs gracing homes and public spaces. Recognized as one of the best places to celebrate Diwali outside India, Kathmandu offers a unique, spiritual take on the Festival of Lights, with traditions deeply connected to nature and the Nepalese way of life.
Nepal’s multilingual, multi-cultural society celebrates numerous festivals. Each has its distinct origins and symbolism, from battles between gods and demons to commemorations of significant births. Among these, Tihar is a cherished national holiday.
Each of Tihar’s five days has special significance. It begins by honoring crows, seen as messengers of death. Day two celebrates dogs as guardians of the spiritual world, while day three welcomes Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, into Nepalese homes. The cow—Nepal’s national animal—is revered on day four. Finally, Bhaitika, the last day, celebrates the bond between siblings, with brothers and sisters exchanging blessings, gifts, and the traditional Tihar tika.
2. Singapore
“Diwali in Singapore: Little India’s Brilliance in Full Bloom.”
Date: October 29 to November 3, 2024
During Diwali in Singapore, Little India becomes a vibrant spectacle of shimmering lights and festive decor. Celebrations begin early, with streets illuminated according to the annual theme—this year’s focus is on “family unity,” highlighting togetherness.
The Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association (Lisha) organizes various cultural programs, including cooking demonstrations, a treasure hunt, and special Big Bus tours. The bustling Deepavali Festival Village showcases traditional crafts and delicious Indian cuisine.
This lively area offers interactive cultural shows and a variety of Indian dishes, making the bustling bazaars perfect for finding ethnic souvenirs. The district’s cleanliness and efficient public transport add to its appeal as a travel destination. Visitors can engage in traditional rituals, enjoy captivating performances, and indulge in a wide selection of sweets and snacks.
3. Malaysia
“Celebrate Deepavali in Kuala Lumpur: A Festival of Lights and Community Spirit.”
Date: October 23 to 30, 2024
In Kuala Lumpur, the multicultural essence of Malaysia shines brightly during Diwali, particularly in Brickfields’ Little India. It comes alive with festivities, music, dance, and oil lamps. Known locally as Deepavali, this festival celebrates the vibrant Tamilian community.
Deepavali is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country as a public holiday, with Kuala Lumpur hosting some of the grandest festivities. Brickfields is renowned for its lively events, showcasing cultural performances, delicious food markets, and the lighting of oil lamps. The area is bustling with life, featuring a market filled with traditional Indian decorations and festive items, while restaurants offer special menus for the occasion.
Visitors can witness the vibrant celebrations, including captivating firework displays, and join crowds of devotees worshiping at the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and Batu Caves. The grand spirit of Diwali makes Malaysia an ideal destination for international Diwali celebrations.
4. United Kingdom
“Leicester’s Diwali Festival: A British Celebration of Indian Light and Joy.”
Date: October 31, 2024
Diwali in Leicester, UK, is enthusiastically celebrated. The city hosts a grand event featuring a spectacular lights switch-on ceremony, cultural performances, and a lively Diwali village.
In Leicester, the festivities focus is on Belgrave Road, affectionately known as the “Golden Mile.” Here, visitors can enjoy processions of street performers and the annual appearance of Leicester’s “Wheel of Light,” a festive Ferris wheel that adds to the celebration’s charm. In 2024, Cossington Recreation Ground will host a Diwali Village featuring delicious food stalls, rides, laser shows, an LED light installation, live performances, and a dazzling fireworks display.
5. South Africa
“Diwali in Johannesburg: Join the Celebration of Light in Jo’burg.”
Date: October 31 to November 1, 2024
Diwali is a major holiday in South Africa, especially in Durban, where a vibrant Indian community thrives. The city celebrates with cultural events, music, traditional Indian dishes, and the lighting of diyas. If you’re in Johannesburg during this time, attend the Gauteng Diwali Festival to enjoy the festive atmosphere and indulge in delicious Indian cuisine.
South Africans celebrate Diwali with light lamps and candles in their homes to symbolize the victory of good over evil. Families gather for feasts, and fireworks often add to the excitement. Participants wear traditional, colorful clothing and create beautiful Rangoli patterns outside their homes using colored rice or flour. Henna, or Mehndi designs, adorn hands and arms, representing good fortune for the coming year.
This festival of lights is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and is part of global Diwali events. It celebrates significant events such as Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya and honors deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha. Diwali is observed annually at the end of October.
6. Thailand
“Bangkok’s Diwali Cruise: Where Festivities Float on Water.”
Date: October 31, 2024
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, has a growing Indian community, and Diwali is celebrated with vibrant cultural programs, dance performances, and stunning decorations. If you’re in Bangkok during Diwali, don’t miss the Diwali Cruise, where festive music and delicious food await. Renowned dhol expert King Waari and DJ Chai Singh promise to create an unforgettable experience, making it a perfect way to celebrate while indulging in the water.
Thailand is one of the top Diwali travel destinations abroad. It features spectacular street markets, with cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai hosting festivals that beautifully capture the spirit of Diwali. The rich cuisine, history, architecture, and culture come alive during this festive season, offering visitors an exciting experience.
In Thailand, Diwali is celebrated as Lam Kriyongh, where locals light lamps made from banana leaves instead of bursting firecrackers. These lamps symbolize prayers for continuity and strength in uncertain times, as they hold candles, coins, and incense before being set afloat in nearby rivers, creating a breathtaking display that reflects the festival’s essence.
7. United States of America
“Diwali Across America: Coast-to-Coast Celebrations of Light.”
Date: October 31, 2024
Diwali has become increasingly celebrated across the United States, particularly in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Houston. Festivities include vibrant parades, dazzling fireworks, and fairs offering traditional Indian food, clothing, and accessories.
Community centers and Hindu temples host cultural programs, prayer events, and feasts, allowing Indian-Americans and others to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of this luminous festival.
This year, Diwali falls on October 31, with public recognition growing. New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation making Diwali a public school holiday in New York City, allowing students to celebrate on November 1. Pennsylvania has also declared Diwali an official public holiday beginning this year.
Additionally, Texas has approved Diwali as a fireworks-eligible holiday, promoting goodwill among residents. While recognition is still limited, these developments mark significant strides in honoring Diwali in the United States.
Takeaway
If you’re excited to celebrate Diwali, there are many exciting places to experience this Festival of Lights. From the bright fireworks in Malaysia to the colorful decorations in Leicester, each spot has its special way of celebrating. Join communities worldwide to enjoy traditional customs, tasty foods, and the joyful spirit of Diwali.
As you plan your Diwali celebration abroad, having the right travel partner can make all the difference.
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